Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Model | RED670 |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product Series | Relion 670 Series |
| Product Type | Line Differential Protection Relay / IED |
| Primary Function | Transmission line differential protection |
| Protection Function | ANSI 87L line differential |
| Current Inputs | 1 A or 5 A CT inputs |
| Voltage Inputs | Configurable voltage measurement inputs |
| Communication Protocols | IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-103, DNP3, Modbus (configuration dependent) |
| Ethernet Interface | Available for substation communication |
| Binary Inputs | Configurable digital inputs |
| Binary Outputs | Trip and signal relay outputs |
| Mounting | 19-inch rack / panel mounting |
| Auxiliary Supply | Configurable AC/DC supply options |
| Application | Transmission lines, cables, substations |
Application Scenarios & Pain Points
Protection relay problems rarely appear as simple hardware failures. A wrong setting file, mismatched CT ratio, or communication timing issue can create unnecessary trips or prevent proper fault clearing.
Typical applications:
- High Voltage Substations: Used for transmission line differential protection where fast fault isolation is required.
- Power Generation Plants: Applied at generator step-up and transmission interfaces requiring coordinated protection.
- Utility Networks: Supports overhead line and cable protection schemes across interconnected substations.
- Industrial Power Systems: Used in large facilities requiring selective protection for critical feeders and incoming transmission connections.
Field note: A utility substation experienced intermittent protection communication alarms after replacing aging relay equipment. The relay hardware was healthy, but the IEC 61850 configuration and communication mapping did not match the original engineering database. After restoring the correct settings and verifying fiber communication, the protection system returned to normal operation.
RED670
Related Products
- ABB REL670 — Related line protection relay family. Designed for transmission protection applications with different functional configurations.
- ABB REC670 — Bay control IED from the Relion 670 family, focused on control, monitoring, and protection coordination.
- ABB RET670 — Transformer differential protection relay for power transformer protection applications.
- ABB REG670 — Generator protection relay designed for generator and power plant protection systems.
- ABB REF670 — Feeder protection and control relay for distribution and sub-transmission applications.
- ABB REX640 — Modern protection and control platform used for flexible substation applications.
- ABB COM600 — Substation automation communication device used for station-level integration.
- ABB PCM600 — Engineering software platform used for configuration, parameterization, and maintenance of ABB protection IEDs.
The Engineer’s Guide: Field Pitfalls to Avoid
⚠️ Firmware and Configuration File Mismatch
A replacement RED670 may power up normally but fail protection communication or logic checks if the engineering database does not match.
How to avoid: Confirm firmware revision, application configuration, and PCM600 project files before commissioning.
⚠️ Incorrect CT/VT Parameter Settings
Protection calculations depend heavily on accurate transformer ratios and input scaling.
How to avoid: Verify CT ratio, VT ratio, phase sequence, polarity, and protection settings before enabling trips.
⚠️ IEC 61850 Communication Configuration Errors
The relay may appear healthy while GOOSE messages or station communication fail.
How to avoid: Check SCD/CID files, network settings, fiber connections, and time synchronization.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main function of the ABB RED670?
The RED670 is a line differential protection IED designed to protect transmission lines and cables by comparing current measurements from both ends of the protected section.
Is the RED670 only used for line differential protection?
No. Depending on configuration, it can include additional protection functions such as overcurrent, breaker failure, voltage protection, frequency protection, and control functions.
Can I replace an older ABB protection relay with RED670 directly?
Not always. Replacement requires checking CT/VT wiring, protection philosophy, communication architecture, panel dimensions, and engineering configuration.
Does replacing the require new protection settings?
Usually yes. Protection settings, logic, communication mapping, and control parameters must be reviewed and transferred according to the project requirements.
What should be checked before purchasing an ABB ?
Recommended checks:
- Exact order code and hardware version
- Firmware revision
- CT and VT input configuration
- Communication interface type
- Existing PCM600 project backup
- Protection setting files
Why does a replacement show communication alarms?
Common causes include:
- Incorrect IEC 61850 configuration
- Wrong IP settings
- Missing station configuration files
- Fiber communication issues
- Firmware mismatch
Is a refurbished ABB suitable for substation service?
A tested refurbished relay can be suitable when it passes hardware inspection, input/output verification, communication testing, and configuration compatibility checks before installation.
