SPAU140C Numerical Overcurrent & Earth Fault Relay

Description

SPAU140C

The ABB SPAU140C functions as a core protection and control device in electrical distribution networks, serving as a numerical relay that monitors current and voltage signals to detect overcurrent, earth faults, and other electrical anomalies.

SPAU140C

Positioned between the power system equipment and the SCADA or automation system, it acts as both a guardian and a communicator—rapidly identifying fault conditions to initiate protective actions while transmitting real-time data to central monitoring systems. What distinguishes the ABB SPAU140C is its advanced signal processing capabilities, which enable customizable protection settings tailored to specific network configurations. It integrates seamlessly with ABB’s Relion® product family and supports industry-standard communication protocols, allowing engineers to configure protection logic, set thresholds, and access diagnostic data through intuitive software tools. The relay also features built-in self-monitoring functions that continuously check hardware and software health, ensuring it remains operational when needed most.

SPAU140C

Main features and advantages:

Selecting the ABB SPAU140C translates to measurable improvements in power system reliability and operational efficiency. Engineered to perform in harsh electrical environments, the relay’s rugged construction withstands voltage transients, electromagnetic interference, and extreme temperature fluctuations—common challenges in industrial and utility settings. This durability ensures consistent performance over extended service life, reducing the need for frequent replacements and lowering lifecycle costs.

The ABB SPAU140C’s advanced diagnostic features provide unprecedented visibility into network conditions, enabling proactive maintenance and faster fault resolution. Instead of relying on manual inspections to identify issues, operators can access real-time data on current levels, trip history, and device health through integrated software, allowing them to address potential problems before they escalate into outages. Its flexible configuration options also reduce engineering overhead, as protection settings can be adjusted remotely to adapt to changing network demands without physical access to the device.

SPAU140C

Application areas:

The ABB SPAU140C is deployed in critical power system applications where reliable protection directly impacts safety and productivity. In utility distribution networks, it safeguards medium-voltage feeders, transformers, and switchgear, detecting faults to prevent equipment damage and minimize service interruptions for residential and commercial customers. Its fast tripping capabilities make it ideal for industrial plants, where it protects motors, generators, and distribution panels from overcurrent conditions that could halt production lines.

Renewable energy facilities, including solar farms and wind parks, rely on the ABB SPAU140C to protect grid-connected inverters and distribution systems, ensuring stable power transfer to the main network. In all these environments, the relay’s compliance with global standards like IEC 61850 ensures seamless integration with modern smart grid architectures, supporting the transition to more connected, efficient power systems where critical uptime is paramount.

SPAU140C

Related products:

SPAU110C – Compact overcurrent relay for smaller distribution networks and secondary protection.

SPAU240C – Advanced relay with directional overcurrent protection for complex network topologies.

REL650 – ABB’s feeder protection relay with extended I/O capabilities for large-scale applications.

SPAJ140C – Earth fault specific relay for networks requiring specialized ground fault protection.

SPAM150C – Multifunctional relay combining overcurrent, voltage, and frequency protection.

CI854A – ABB communication interface for integrating SPAU140C into Profibus networks.

PM866K01 – Processor module for enhancing SPAU140C’s logic and communication capabilities.

SPAU140C

Installation and maintenance:

Before installing the ABB SPAU140C, verify that the control supply voltage matches the relay’s specifications to prevent damage during startup. Ensure the mounting location provides adequate ventilation, as the device dissipates heat during operation—maintaining ambient temperatures within the specified range is critical for long-term reliability. Check that communication networks (Ethernet or RS485) are properly terminated and grounded to avoid data transmission issues, especially in high-noise electrical environments.

For ongoing maintenance, schedule quarterly reviews of the relay’s event log using ABB’s PCM600 software to analyze trip records and identify recurring fault patterns. Inspect terminal connections annually to ensure tightness, as loose connections can cause measurement inaccuracies or communication failures. Perform firmware updates during scheduled outages to access the latest protection algorithms and security enhancements, following ABB’s recommended procedures to avoid interruptions during the update process.

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