Description
The ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC is a high-performance, multifunctional line protection and control relay designed for the secure and selective protection of high-voltage (HV) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) transmission lines in utility and industrial power systems. As part of ABB’s Relion® 670 series—a flagship platform within the Ability™ Digital Power Portfolio—the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC delivers ultra-fast current differential protection using fiber-optic communication, ensuring system stability during internal faults while maintaining security against external disturbances. Its advanced algorithms, synchronized sampling, and robust teleprotection logic make it a cornerstone of modern digital substations.
Engineered for critical infrastructure, the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC integrates seamlessly into IEC 61850-based architectures, supporting Sampled Values (IEC 61850-9-2 LE), GOOSE messaging, and MMS for real-time monitoring and control. Beyond core differential functions, it provides backup distance protection, overcurrent elements, breaker failure detection, fault location, and synchrophasor (IEEE C37.118) capabilities—all within a single, compact IED. This consolidation reduces panel space, wiring complexity, and lifecycle costs. The ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC is not merely a protective device; it is a strategic asset for grid resilience, enabling utilities to meet stringent reliability standards while preparing for future grid automation and wide-area monitoring.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter Name | Parameter Value |
|---|
| Product Model | REL670 1MRK002812-AC |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product Type | Line Differential Protection Relay (IED) |
| Protection Principle | Phase-segregated current differential with adaptive stabilization |
| Sampling Rate | 4 kHz per channel (synchronized via IRIG-B or SNTP) |
| Communication Interfaces | 2 × LC fiber-optic (IEC 61850-9-2 LE, IEEE C37.94), 2 × RJ-45 Ethernet (IEC 61850 GOOSE/MMS), 1 × RS-485 (service) |
| Digital I/O | 16 configurable inputs, 10 high-speed outputs (250 VDC/AC capable) |
| Analog Inputs | 4 × 1 A or 5 A CT inputs (phase + neutral), optional VT inputs |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +70°C |
| Power Supply | Dual redundant 24–250 VDC or 100–240 VAC (isolated inputs) |
| Cyber Security | Role-based access, audit trail, IEC 62351 compliant, secure firmware update |
| Certifications | IEC 61850 Ed. 2, IEEE C37.94, IEEE C37.118, EN 60255, UL/cUL |
Main Features and Advantages
Ultra-fast and secure line differential protection: The ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC uses phase-segregated current comparison with adaptive restraint to detect internal faults in under 10 ms—critical for preserving transient stability in meshed grids. Its dual-wavelength fiber-optic channels (per IEEE C37.94) ensure immunity to electromagnetic interference and ground potential rise, even over 50 km spans.
Full IEC 61850 Edition 2 compliance: Unlike legacy relays retrofitted with communication modules, the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC was architected from the ground up for digital substations. It natively publishes and subscribes to Sampled Values and GOOSE without external merging units, simplifying architecture and reducing latency. The built-in SCL configurator streamlines engineering in PCM600 or third-party tools.
Comprehensive multifunctionality in one unit: In addition to primary differential protection, the
ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC includes quadrilateral distance zones, directional overcurrent, sensitive earth fault, breaker failure, auto-reclosing, and precise fault locator (<1>
Advanced situational awareness: With integrated synchrophasor measurement (PMU) per IEEE C37.118, the REL670 supports wide-area monitoring and dynamic stability assessment. High-resolution oscillography (up to 128 samples/cycle) and COMTRADE recording aid post-fault analysis and regulatory compliance.
Hardened for substation environments: The ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC features dual isolated power inputs, conformal-coated PCBs, and EMI shielding meeting IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4. Its fanless design ensures silent, maintenance-free operation for over 20 years.
Application Field
The ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC is deployed globally in transmission utilities, independent power producers, and large industrial complexes where line integrity directly impacts grid stability. It is the preferred solution for protecting critical 115 kV to 765 kV overhead lines, underground cables, and hybrid circuits—especially in meshed networks where selectivity and speed are non-negotiable. In cross-border interconnects or islanded grids, the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC’s immunity to CT saturation and infeed effects ensures reliable tripping during high-resistance faults.
Renewable integration projects also rely on the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC to protect collector feeders from wind or solar farms, where variable generation and weak grid conditions challenge conventional protection schemes. Its adaptive algorithms maintain security during low-load or reverse-power scenarios. In urban substations undergoing digital retrofit, the REL670 replaces multiple electromechanical or early microprocessor relays with a single IEC 61850-compliant IED—accelerating commissioning and enabling remote diagnostics. For rail traction power systems with complex grounding, the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC’s sensitive earth-fault and differential functions provide tailored protection without nuisance trips.
Related Products
REL650: Feeder management relay for distribution networks; shares platform but optimized for radial circuits
REL670 1MRK002813-AC: Alternate hardware revision with enhanced memory and additional I/O capacity
PCM600: ABB’s official engineering tool for configuring, testing, and maintaining REL670 relays
REF615: Feeder differential protection relay for medium-voltage applications; lower cost, same ecosystem
REU610: Voltage protection and control IED; often used alongside REL670 in transformer bays
TK212A: Ethernet switch certified for use with REL670 in IEC 61850 process bus networks
615/620 Series IEDs: Broader Relion family offering scalable protection from MV to EHV
Ability Asset Suite: Cloud-based monitoring platform that ingests data from REL670 for predictive maintenance
Installation and Maintenance
Pre-installation preparation: Before installing the ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC, verify compatibility with the substation’s CT/VT ratios, DC supply voltage, and fiber-optic cabling (62.5/125 µm multimode, LC connectors). Ensure the rack is properly grounded per IEEE 142. Mount the relay on a standard 19-inch panel using the provided brackets. Connect dual power supplies if redundancy is required. Use only ABB-certified SFP modules for fiber links to guarantee IEEE C37.94 timing integrity. Load the final SCD file via PCM600 before energizing.
Maintenance recommendations: The ABB REL670 1MRK002812-AC requires no routine calibration, but periodic functional tests are recommended per IEEE C37.90. Use the built-in self-monitoring diagnostics to check fiber link health, power supply status, and memory integrity. Review event logs and oscillography after any disturbance—even if no trip occurred—to validate relay behavior. Firmware updates should be performed during planned outages using authenticated packages from ABB. Store spare REL670 units in climate-controlled, static-safe packaging; avoid exposure to humidity or rapid temperature swings that can cause condensation on optics.