ABB REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E

Description

Detailed parameter table

ABB REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E

Product introduction

The REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E is a high-performance bay control unit (BCU) from ABB, designed to manage and protect medium-voltage (MV) switchgear in electrical substations and industrial power networks. As part of ABB’s REF600 series, this advanced device integrates protection, control, monitoring, and communication capabilities into a single, compact unit—setting a new standard for MV network automation.

REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E serves as the intelligent core of MV switchgear, overseeing circuit breakers, disconnectors, and other assets. It detects electrical faults (such as overcurrent or earth faults) and executes protective actions within milliseconds to isolate faulty sections, preventing widespread outages. Beyond protection, it enables remote control of switchgear operations, collects real-time data on network parameters (voltage, current, power), and communicates seamlessly with SCADA systems or substation automation platforms. Whether deployed in utility substations, industrial plants, or renewable energy grids, REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E enhances network reliability, reduces operational costs, and supports the transition to smart grids.

Core advantages and technical highlights

Advanced protection suite: REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E combines a comprehensive set of protection functions tailored for MV networks. Its distance protection (up to 4 zones) accurately locates faults in transmission lines, while overcurrent and earth fault protection with adaptive settings adapts to varying network conditions. Breaker failure protection ensures backup tripping if a circuit breaker fails to operate, minimizing fault propagation. This multi-layered protection strategy makes REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E suitable for complex networks with distributed generation, such as solar or wind farms.

Future-ready communication: Built on IEC 61850 Ed. 2.1, REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E supports fast GOOSE (Generic Object-Oriented Substation Event) messaging for real-time inter-device communication, enabling substation-wide data exchange within 1 ms. It also includes time synchronization via PTP (IEEE 1588 v2), ensuring precise coordination between protection devices. This digital readiness allows seamless integration into modern digital substations, eliminating the need for legacy hardwiring and simplifying upgrades to smart grid functionalities.

Intuitive operation and diagnostics: The 7-inch color touchscreen of REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E provides direct access to real-time measurements, event logs, and configuration menus, reducing the need for external tools during commissioning. Advanced diagnostics track breaker wear, contact resistance, and battery health, issuing alerts for proactive maintenance. ABB’s PCM600 software enhances this with offline configuration, simulation tools, and historical data analysis, enabling engineers to optimize settings without disrupting network operations.

Rugged design for harsh environments: REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E operates reliably in extreme conditions, with a temperature range of -40°C to +70°C and immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) per IEC 61000-6-2. Its robust housing (IP42 front panel) resists dust and moisture, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor switchgear enclosures. The unit’s redundant power supply inputs (110/220 V AC/DC) ensure uninterrupted operation during power fluctuations—a critical feature for mission-critical substations.

Typical application scenarios

In utility distribution substations, REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E manages MV feeders supplying power to residential and commercial areas. It monitors feeder currents, detects faults (e.g., tree contact with overhead lines), and isolates the affected feeder to maintain power to other areas. Its IEC 61850 communication allows the substation SCADA system to remotely reconfigure protection settings based on load patterns, such as increasing overcurrent thresholds during peak hours. The unit’s diagnostics also track circuit breaker operations, scheduling maintenance before failures occur.

Industrial plants with on-site MV networks, such as steel mills or chemical facilities, rely on REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E to protect critical equipment like transformers and motors. It coordinates with plant DCS via Modbus TCP, enabling synchronized tripping of non-essential loads during voltage dips to protect sensitive machinery. In areas with high EMI from large motors, the unit’s rugged design ensures stable operation, preventing false trips that could disrupt production.

Renewable energy parks, such as wind farms, use REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E in collector substations connecting multiple turbines to the grid. It manages the complex fault currents caused by variable wind generation, using adaptive protection settings to distinguish between normal inrush currents and actual faults. GOOSE messaging enables fast communication with turbine controllers, allowing the system to ride through voltage fluctuations and maintain grid stability.

ABB REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E

Related model recommendations

REF615: The base model of REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E, offering core protection functions without advanced diagnostics. It is ideal for cost-sensitive applications where basic MV switchgear control suffices.

REF630: A specialized variant for transformer protection, complementing REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E in substations. It adds differential protection and temperature monitoring, working alongside REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E to safeguard transformers and feeders.

SPAU140C: A low-voltage protection relay that pairs with REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E in hybrid networks. It protects downstream LV equipment, with data shared via Modbus to REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E for unified monitoring.

CI854: A communication adapter that extends REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E’s connectivity to PROFINET networks, enabling integration with industrial PLCs in factory automation setups.

TB825: A terminal block accessory for REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E, providing surge protection and secure wiring for analog and digital signals in high-voltage environments.

REL670: A line protection relay from ABB that works with REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E in transmission networks. It offers enhanced distance protection for long lines, with GOOSE messaging enabling coordinated tripping.

Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions

Installation preparation: Before installing REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E, ensure the switchgear panel has a flat, vibration-free mounting surface with adequate ventilation (minimum 100 mm clearance around the unit). Use M5 screws (torque 2.5 Nm) for secure fixation. Verify the power supply matches the unit’s rating (110/220 V AC/DC) and connect via redundant inputs for reliability. Use shielded twisted-pair cables for analog signals (minimum 0.75 mm²) and fiber-optic cables for IEC 61850 communication to minimize EMI. Power down the switchgear during wiring, and use insulated tools to prevent short circuits.

Maintenance suggestions: Inspect REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E quarterly for loose connections, dust buildup, or condensation. Clean the touchscreen with a soft, dry cloth to maintain responsiveness. Perform annual functional tests using a relay test set to verify protection trip times and communication latency. Update firmware via PCM600 software to access new features and security patches—always back up configurations before updating. Monitor diagnostic alerts (e.g., battery low, breaker contact wear) via the touchscreen or SCADA, and replace worn components (e.g., fuses, batteries) with ABB-approved spares to maintain certification.

Service and guarantee commitment

REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E is backed by ABB’s 5-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects and ensuring compliance with published performance standards. ABB’s global technical support team provides 24/7 assistance for configuration, troubleshooting, and network integration, with critical issues addressed within 4 hours.

We offer on-site commissioning services, where certified engineers configure protection settings, test communication protocols, and verify coordination with other substation devices. Extended warranty options (up to 10 years) include annual preventive maintenance, firmware updates, and priority technical support. In the event of a fault, ABB maintains regional stock of REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E units, enabling next-day delivery to minimize downtime. All repairs use genuine components, ensuring the unit retains its original protection capabilities and certifications. This commitment underscores ABB’s confidence in REF615E E HBFEAEAGABOCANC11E’s reliability and its dedication to keeping power networks resilient.