ABB REF620E-1G | Feeder Protection and Control Relay

  • Model: REF620E-1G
  • Brand: ABB
  • Series: Relion® 620 Series
  • Core Function: Feeder protection, control, and measurement
  • Type: Digital Protection and Control Relay (IED)
  • Key Specs: IEC 61850 (Edition 1 & 2), PRP/HSR redundancy, 50/51 Overcurrent protection
Category: SKU: ABB REF620E_1G

Description

Key Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Communication Standards IEC 61850 (GOOSE, 9-2), Modbus, DNP3, IEC 60870-5-103
Protection Functions Overcurrent (50/51), Ground Fault (50N/51N), Directional (67)
Redundancy Protocols Parallel Redundancy Protocol (PRP) & High-availability Seamless Redundancy (HSR)
Time Synchronization IEEE 1588 v2 (PTP), IRIG-B, SNTP
Binary Inputs/Outputs Configurable I/O (expandable via RIO600 remote I/O)
HMI Display Large graphical LCD with single-line diagram
Mounting Style Flush mounting / Rack mounting (Modular structure)
Applicable Networks Isolated, resistive, or impedance grounded networks
Product Condition New Surplus / Original Packaging

Product Introduction

The ABB REF620E-1G is a dedicated feeder protection and control relay from the Relion® 620 series, designed to safeguard public and industrial power distribution networks. It integrates protection, control, measurement, and supervision into a single compact unit, making it suitable for radial, ring, and meshed grid topologies.Engineered for high-reliability substations, this device eliminates single points of failure by supporting PRP and HSR redundancy protocols for zero-latency Ethernet communication. It offers highly selective multi-frequency admittance-based earth fault protection and supports the full IEC 61850 standard (including Editions 1 and 2), ensuring seamless integration into modern substation automation systems.

 

Installation & Configuration Guide

Phase 1: Preparation (10 min)

  • Verify the model number (REF620E-1G) on the nameplate matches your engineering drawings.
  • Ensure you have the correct wiring diagrams for the specific I/O configuration.
  • Gather necessary tools: Torque screwdriver, wire strippers, and ESD wrist strap.

Phase 2: Removal & Inspection (5–10 min)

  • If replacing an existing unit, carefully disconnect communication and I/O cables.
  • Field Note: Before disconnecting, always take a clear photo of the existing terminal wiring and DIP switch positions. This simple step saves hours of troubleshooting later.
  • Unclip the unit from the panel cutout.

Phase 3: Installation (10 min)

  • Insert the REF620E-1G into the panel cutout and secure it using the mounting brackets.
  • Connect the auxiliary power supply first (verify voltage rating, typically 24-250V DC/AC).
  • Wire the CT (Current Transformer) and VT (Voltage Transformer) inputs, ensuring correct polarity.
  • Connect the Ethernet cables to the redundant LAN ports if using PRP/HSR.

Phase 4: Power-On & Test (10 min)

  • Apply auxiliary power. The HMI display should light up and run a self-test.
  • Check the “Healthy” LED status on the front panel.
  • Use the local HMI or PCM600 software to verify communication handshakes (ping test or IEC 61850 client connection).

 

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Symptom Probable Cause Quick Fix
HMI Display Blank Auxiliary power missing or loose Measure terminal voltage; ensure it is within ±20% of the rated value.
“Config Error” Alarm Firmware/Config mismatch Verify the loaded application matches the hardware I/O configuration.
Comm. Timeout IP address conflict or cable fault Check Ethernet cable seating; verify IP settings against the substation plan.
False Trip CT polarity reversed Inspect CT S1/S2 wiring; reversed polarity breaks directional protection logic.

 

Dimensions, Mounting & Wiring Notes

  • Mounting Method: Designed for flush panel mounting (standard 19-inch rack adaptable).
  • Terminal Type: Pluggable spring or screw terminals (verify specific batch).
  • Wiring Note: Ensure control cables are shielded and grounded at one end to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) from affecting sensitive measurement inputs.

FAQ

Q: Does the REF620E-1G support IEC 61850 Edition 2?
A: Yes. The device supports both Edition 1 and Edition 2 of the IEC 61850 standard, including advanced features like GOOSE messaging and Sampled Values (IEC 61850-9-2).Q: I received the unit, but the configuration software won’t connect. What gives?
A: This is usually a PC-IED communication setting issue. Ensure your laptop’s IP address is in the same subnet as the relay’s default IP. Also, check if the correct device driver (.icd or .cid file) is imported into your engineering tool.Q: Can this relay handle ungrounded (isolated) neutral systems?
A: Absolutely. The REF620E-1G is specifically designed to provide sensitive earth fault protection for isolated, resistively grounded, and impedance grounded networks.Q: What is the lead time for this part?
A: For in-stock items, we typically ship within 24 to 48 hours. If a specific firmware version needs to be ordered from the factory, lead times may extend to 4-6 weeks.Q: Is this a refurbished unit or brand new?
A: We supply this as New Surplus / New Original. It comes in the original ABB packaging and has never been installed in a live panel. All units undergo a visual inspection and basic power-on test before shipping.Q: Can I expand the I/O count if I run out of terminals?
A: Yes. The Relion 620 series supports expansion via ABB’s RIO600 remote I/O modules, allowing you to add more binary inputs/outputs without replacing the main unit.