ABB RET650 1MRK008516-AG | Distance Protection Relay for Transmission Lines
ABB RET650 1MRK008516-AG | Distance Protection Relay for Transmission Lines - Image 2
ABB RET650 1MRK008516-AG | Distance Protection Relay for Transmission Lines - Image 3

ABB RET650 1MRK008516-AG | Distance Protection Relay for Transmission Lines

  • Model: RET650 (Order Code: 1MRK008516-AG)
  • Brand: ABB
  • Series: 650 Series Feeder and Line Protection
  • Core Function: High-speed distance protection for overhead lines and cables
  • Type: Digital Protection Relay (IED)
  • Key Specs: 240 samples/cycle sampling rate, 4 independent distance zones, IEC 61850 Ed.2 support
  • Condition: Tested Surplus (Function verified on test rack)
Category: SKU: ABB RET650 1MRK008516-AG

Description

Key Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Function Code 21 (Distance), 50/51 (Overcurrent), 59/27 (Over/Under Voltage)
Sampling Rate 240 samples per cycle (4.8 kHz at 60 Hz)
Distance Zones 4 forward + 4 reverse zones
Communication IEC 61850 Ed.2, DNP3.0, Modbus TCP/RTU, IEC 60870-5-103
Current Input 1 A or 5 A secondary (software selectable)
Voltage Input 100 V or 110 V secondary (software selectable)
Binary Inputs 8 opto-isolated inputs (24–250 V DC/AC)
Binary Outputs 6 change-over contacts + 4 signal contacts
Operating Time < 15 ms for fault within Zone 1 (typical)
Power Supply 24–250 V DC or 48–240 V AC
Mounting Flush mounting or semi-flush (19″ rack compatible with kit)
Standards IEC 60255, IEEE C37.90, IEC 61850

 

Product Introduction

The ABB RET650 (1MRK008516-AG) is a dedicated distance protection relay designed for high-voltage transmission lines up to 500 kV. It combines four-step distance protection with comprehensive backup overcurrent and voltage functions in a single IED architecture. Utilities deploy this unit primarily for main protection on critical interconnectors where speed and selectivity are non-negotiable.This specific configuration (-AG) supports high-resolution analog processing with 240 samples per cycle, reducing aliasing errors during transient faults. Field data from similar installations shows trip decision times consistently under 12 ms for solid faults in Zone 1. Unlike older electromechanical units, the RET650 stores detailed disturbance records (COMTRADE format) internally, allowing engineers to reconstruct fault events without external recorders.

Installation & Configuration Guide

Phase 1: Preparation (10 min)

Gather the RET650 unit, mounting hardware, and a laptop with PCM600 software installed. Verify the substation DC supply voltage matches the relay rating plate (check for 110 V DC vs 225 V DC). Note: Applying 225 V DC to a 110 V DC module will destroy the power supply instantly. Disconnect all CT and VT secondary circuits before handling terminals to prevent open-circuit hazards.

Phase 2: Removal (5–10 min)

If replacing an existing unit, photograph all terminal wiring and DIP switch settings first. Loosen the four front-panel mounting screws. Gently pull the module forward until the rear connector disengages. Do not force it; the Euro-card connector has a guide rail. Label the removed unit clearly to avoid mixing it with spares.

Phase 3: Installation (10 min)

Slide the new RET650 into the slot, ensuring the guide rails align. Push firmly until the rear connector seats fully (you will feel a distinct click). Tighten the four mounting screws to 1.5 Nm torque. Reconnect CT/VT wires according to your photos. Double-check polarity on current inputs; reversed polarity causes directional element failure.

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

Apply auxiliary power. The “Healthy” LED should turn green within 5 seconds. If it flashes red, check the self-test log via the local HMI or PCM600. Inject a primary current equivalent to 1.2x pickup using a test set. Verify the “Start” and “Trip” LEDs activate. Download the latest setting group from your engineering database. (We once saw a team skip this step and operate on factory default settings—don’t be that team.)

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Symptom Probability Action
“Healthy” LED Red High Check auxiliary power voltage range. Inspect internal fuse if accessible. Review self-test log for “Hardware Fault.”
No Communication Medium Verify IP address and subnet mask in PCM600. Check Ethernet cable shield grounding. Ping the device IP.
Distance Element False Trip Low Check for CT saturation during external faults. Verify Zone 1 time delay setting (should be > 0 ms usually). Inspect VT fuses.
Binary Input Not Reacting Medium Measure voltage at the input terminal. Ensure common return path is connected. Check opto-isolator threshold settings.
Display Blank Low Adjust contrast settings via buttons. If still blank, cycle power. If persistent, hardware replacement needed.

 

Dimensions, Mounting & Wiring Notes

  • Dimensions: 144 mm (H) × 192 mm (W) × 250 mm (D) approx. (Standard ½ 19″ rack width, 4U height).
  • Mounting: Designed for flush mounting in control panels. Cutout dimensions are typically 138 mm × 186 mm. Semi-flush kits are available separately.
  • Terminal Notes: Rear connectors are DIN 41612 type. Use ferrules on all stranded wires. Torque screw terminals to 0.5–0.6 Nm.
  • Clearance: Maintain 50 mm clearance behind the panel for connector access and ventilation.

FAQ

Q: Is the 1MRK008516-AG compatible with my old RET543 settings?
A: Not directly. While both are ABB relays, the logic structure and parameter naming differ significantly between the 500 and 650 series. You must convert settings using ABB’s migration tools or manually re-engineer the logic in PCM600. Expect to spend 2–4 hours on this conversion per bay.Q: I need this urgently for a substation outage tomorrow. Can you ship today?
A: Yes. We have 3 tested units in stock. If you order before 2:00 PM EST, we pack and ship via overnight courier today. You will have the tracking number by 5:00 PM.Q: Does this model support IEC 61850 GOOSE messaging?
A: Yes. The -AG configuration includes full IEC 61850 Ed.2 support, including GOOSE publish/subscribe for interlocking and direct tripping schemes. You just need to configure the GSE control blocks in the communication section.Q: What exactly is included in your “Tested Surplus” condition?
A: It means the unit was pulled from a decommissioned site but passed our live functional test. We verified power-up, comms handshake, binary I/O operation, and analog measurement accuracy. It is not “new in box,” but it is guaranteed to work. We do not sell untested pulls.Q: Can I use standard CAT5e cables for the fiber optic ports?
A: No. The RET615/650 series often uses ST or LC fiber connectors for high-speed redundancy rings (PRP/HSR). Copper RJ45 is only for the standard Ethernet maintenance port. Check your specific port layout; mixing them up won’t damage the port, but nothing will link.Q: My engineer says the firmware version is too old. Can you update it?
A: We can update the firmware upon request before shipping. However, this requires your specific license file and configuration backup. Usually, it is safer for your team to load the firmware onsite using your licensed PCM600 project to ensure version compatibility with your SCADA system. Let us know if you need the base image loaded.

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