ABB RET670 Numerical Transformer Protection Relay

Description

RET670

The ABB RET670 is a specialized numerical relay designed as a premium component of ABB’s Relion® product family, focusing exclusively on the protection, control, and monitoring of power transformers. As a critical element in modern substation automation, it combines advanced transformer protection functions with integrated control logic, measurement capabilities, and extensive diagnostic features in a single, compact device—eliminating the need for multiple protection relays in transformer bay configurations.

RET670

This relay integrates seamlessly into both traditional and digital substation architectures, supporting legacy hardwired connections alongside modern IEC 61850-9-2LE process bus communications for interoperability with other intelligent electronic devices (IEDs). Its flexible configuration allows adaptation to various transformer types including two-winding, three-winding, autotransformers, and phase-shifting transformers. What makes the ABB RET670 particularly valuable is its ability to distinguish between actual faults and harmless transients, reducing unnecessary tripping while ensuring rapid response to genuine threats—critical for protecting high-value transformer assets.

RET670

Main features and advantages:

Hardware design highlights include a ruggedized enclosure meeting IEC 61850-3 environmental standards, operating reliably in temperatures ranging from -25°C to +70°C and withstanding vibration up to 5g—essential for harsh substation environments. The relay offers multiple communication interfaces including dual Ethernet ports, RS485, and optical fiber connections, enabling secure data exchange using protocols like IEC 61850 Ed. 2, DNP3, and Modbus. Its redundant power supply inputs ensure continuous operation during temporary power interruptions, a critical feature for protecting mission-critical transformer assets.

Application areas:

In power generation facilities, industrial substations, and utility transmission networks, transformers represent some of the most critical and valuable assets, requiring specialized protection to prevent catastrophic failures and ensure uninterrupted power flow. These vital components face unique challenges including winding faults, core saturation, overheating, and voltage irregularities that demand precise detection and rapid response. Whether safeguarding large power transformers in utility substations, distribution transformers in industrial plants, or autotransformers in renewable energy installations, engineers need protection devices specifically designed to address transformer-specific failure modes while integrating seamlessly with modern substation automation systems.

This is where the ABB RET670 excels, serving as a dedicated numerical relay for transformer protection and control across diverse energy sector applications. In fossil fuel power plants, it monitors generator step-up transformers, detecting insulation breakdowns before they escalate into major failures. In urban substations, it protects distribution transformers serving residential and commercial areas, minimizing outage durations during fault conditions. Used in power system automation for over a decade, the ABB RET670 has proven its reliability in applications requiring specialized transformer protection algorithms and comprehensive diagnostic capabilities, making it a trusted choice for utilities, industrial operators, and renewable energy developers worldwide.

Related products:

ABB RET650 – Sister model specialized for high-voltage line protection, often deployed alongside the ABB RET670 in complete substation protection schemes.

ABB REX640 – Auxiliary control relay that enhances the ABB RET670’s interlocking capabilities for transformer tap changer control.

ABB TCM800 – Transformer condition monitoring unit that integrates with the ABB RET670 to provide oil and winding temperature analytics.

ABB SPACOM S200 – Communication gateway connecting the ABB RET670 to legacy SCADA systems using non-IEC 61850 protocols.

ABB PSE600 – Redundant power supply unit providing stable 24V DC output for the ABB RET670 and associated substation devices.

ABB HMI60.1 – Local operator panel that displays real-time transformer status and allows configuration of the ABB RET670.

ABB REF615 – Feeder protection relay that coordinates with the ABB RET670 in distribution transformer applications.

ABB CMU800 – Circuit breaker monitoring unit that works with the ABB RET670 to provide comprehensive transformer bay diagnostics.

Installation and maintenance:

Before installing the ABB RET670, ensure the mounting location provides unobstructed airflow with at least 100mm clearance on all sides to manage heat dissipation during continuous operation. Verify that current transformer (CT) and voltage transformer (VT) connections match the relay’s input specifications, with proper polarity maintained for accurate differential protection operation. The substation grounding system should meet IEEE 80 standards, with the relay’s protective earth terminal connected to the main grounding grid using a 6mm² copper conductor to minimize electromagnetic interference.

For maintenance, conduct quarterly inspections using ABB’s PCM600 software to verify protection settings, check event log integrity, and validate communication links. Perform visual inspections every six months to examine terminal connections for corrosion or looseness, paying special attention to CT and VT inputs critical for differential protection accuracy. Schedule firmware updates during planned outages, ensuring configuration backups are stored securely beforehand. The ABB RET670 includes built-in test modes that allow functional verification without interrupting normal operation, facilitating safe maintenance activities.

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