In modern electrical power systems, reliable protection and control are crucial for ensuring system stability, preventing equipment damage, and minimizing downtime. The ABB REC670 (1MRK002814-AB) is a state-of-the-art multifunctional protection and control relay, designed to meet the demanding requirements of utility, industrial, and renewable energy applications. Part of ABB’s renowned Relion® protection and control family, the REC670 combines advanced protection algorithms, flexible communication options, and robust cyber-security features, making it a cornerstone of digital substations worldwide.
This article provides a comprehensive technical overview of the ABB REC670, highlighting its features, specifications, applications, and key benefits, aiming to serve engineers, system integrators, and technical decision-makers.
The ABB REC670 is a high-performance relay specifically engineered for transmission and distribution networks. It is widely deployed in medium-voltage (MV) and high-voltage (HV) substations, providing advanced protection for generators, transformers, feeders, and busbars. Designed to comply with IEC 61850 communication standards, it enables seamless integration with modern substation automation systems.
Key aspects of the REC670 include:
Advanced protection functions: Overcurrent, differential, distance, and voltage protection for various network configurations.
Scalable control capabilities: Supports multiple logic schemes, programmable sequences, and interlocking functions.
IEC 61850 compliance: Facilitates real-time communication, system interoperability, and remote monitoring.
Cybersecurity features: Built-in access control, authentication, and secure communication protocols to protect critical infrastructure.
The model 1MRK002814-AB represents a standard configuration optimized for feeder and transformer protection, combining high reliability with flexible engineering options.
The ABB REC670 relay provides a broad range of technical capabilities that ensure precise, reliable operation in demanding environments. Key specifications include:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rated voltage | 110–220 V DC (typical auxiliary supply) |
| Input type | 3-phase current and voltage inputs, CT/VT compatible |
| Protection functions | Overcurrent (50/51), Earth-fault (50N/51N), Directional elements, Differential protection (87T, 87N), Distance protection (21), Voltage protection (27/59), Frequency protection (81) |
| Control functions | Programmable logic, interlocking, breaker control, auto-reclosing |
| Communication protocols | IEC 61850, Modbus, DNP3, Profibus, IEC 60870-5-103 |
| Cybersecurity | Role-based access, password protection, encrypted communications |
| Display & interface | High-resolution HMI, LEDs, front-panel buttons, USB/serial ports |
| Operating temperature | -25°C to +55°C |
| Mounting type | Standard 19” rack or panel mount |
These specifications make the REC670 ideal for complex protection schemes where speed, accuracy, and flexibility are critical.
The REC670 integrates multi-functional protection algorithms to secure generators, transformers, feeders, and busbars. Its digital differential protection is highly precise, minimizing false trips and ensuring fast fault clearance. The relay also provides directional overcurrent and distance protection, allowing engineers to handle complex network topologies with confidence.
With programmable logic and sequence-of-events recording, the REC670 enables automated operations such as auto-reclosing, breaker control, and interlocking. This reduces human error, optimizes system reliability, and supports the operational efficiency of modern substations.
The relay’s IEC 61850 compliance ensures interoperability within digital substations. Engineers can easily integrate it into SCADA systems and leverage GOOSE messaging for high-speed communication between relays, allowing precise coordination and fast response during faults.
Built to withstand harsh industrial environments, the REC670 features robust hardware, extended temperature tolerance, and redundant power supply options. These factors make it ideal for critical infrastructure where downtime is unacceptable.
The relay supports role-based access control, secure firmware updates, and encrypted communication protocols, aligning with modern cybersecurity standards for power systems. This future-proofs substations against emerging cyber threats.
The ABB REC670 is suitable for a wide range of utility and industrial applications:
Transmission and Distribution Feeders
Provides fast, reliable protection for high-voltage feeders.
Supports selective tripping and fault isolation.
Transformers
Differential and overcurrent protection prevent transformer damage.
Advanced logic ensures smooth coordination with upstream and downstream relays.
Generators
Protects generators from overcurrent, under/overvoltage, and frequency deviations.
Synchronization and disturbance recording enhance reliability.
Digital Substations
Integrates seamlessly with IEC 61850-based automation systems.
Enables remote monitoring, real-time diagnostics, and predictive maintenance.
Renewable Energy Plants
Compatible with wind and solar farms for feeder and transformer protection.
Supports grid codes and high-speed communication requirements.
ABB provides comprehensive support for the installation, configuration, and commissioning of the REC670 relay:
Flexible mounting options: Panel or 19” rack, with compact footprint.
User-friendly HMI and configuration tools: ABB PCM600 software enables relay configuration, testing, and firmware updates.
Event logging and fault analysis: Built-in oscillography and disturbance recording simplify post-fault diagnostics.
Proper commissioning ensures optimal performance, reliable protection, and compliance with industry standards.
Deploying the ABB REC670 in substations and industrial plants offers several tangible benefits:
Enhanced System Reliability
Reduces downtime by detecting and isolating faults quickly.
Operational Efficiency
Automation and programmable logic minimize manual intervention.
Reduced Maintenance Costs
Predictive diagnostics and remote monitoring prevent unnecessary inspections.
Regulatory Compliance
Supports international standards (IEC 61850, IEEE, and regional grid codes).
Cybersecurity Assurance
Protects critical infrastructure against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
While many relays offer standard protection functions, the REC670 differentiates itself through:
Multi-functional protection in a single device
High-speed, precise fault detection
Comprehensive automation and interlocking options
Seamless digital substation integration
Robust cybersecurity features for modern networks
This makes it a preferred choice for utilities, industrial plants, and renewable energy operators seeking reliability, efficiency, and future-proofing.
The ABB REC670 (1MRK002814-AB) is more than a protection relay; it is a complete control and automation solution for modern electrical networks. Its advanced protection algorithms, IEC 61850 compliance, programmable logic, and cybersecurity features make it a critical component in digital substations and industrial applications.
For engineers and system designers, the REC670 provides precision, reliability, and flexibility, ensuring that modern power systems operate safely, efficiently, and resiliently. Choosing ABB REC670 means investing in a future-proof solution that meets today’s technical challenges while accommodating tomorrow’s innovations.
