Overview

The ABB REF630 is part of the Relion® 630 series, designed to provide comprehensive feeder protection and bay control for utility and industrial power networks. It supports radial, looped, and meshed distribution systems, with or without distributed generation. The REF630 is ideal for substations, switchgear, and feeder bays where reliability, flexibility, and interoperability are critical.

The REF630 offers advanced protection functions including overcurrent, earth fault, voltage protection, and breaker failure detection. It also provides built-in measurement, fault location, event logging, and disturbance recording, helping operators maintain system stability, reduce downtime, and improve fault response.

For instance, in a wind farm substation, the REF630 can monitor feeder currents and voltages, detect faults, and isolate affected sections to maintain continuous power delivery.

Technical Data

Typical Applications

• Utility Substations: Provides feeder protection and control for medium-voltage distribution networks.

• Industrial Power Systems: Monitors and protects feeder bays in manufacturing and processing plants.

• Renewable Energy Integration: Supports distributed generation systems such as solar and wind farms.

• Smart Grid Deployments: Enables advanced diagnostics, remote control, and IEC 61850-based communication.

• Switchgear Automation: Controls breakers, interlocks, and reclosers in MV switchgear panels.

The REF630 is also commonly used in retrofit projects, upgrading legacy protection systems to modern, digital solutions.

FAQ

Q1: What protection functions are included in the REF630?
A1: It provides overcurrent, earth fault, voltage protection, breaker failure, and additional configurable protection functions.

Q2: Is it compatible with IEC 61850?
A2: Yes, it supports IEC 61850 along with Modbus, DNP3, SPA, and LON protocols.

Q3: Can it be used in renewable energy systems?
A3: Absolutely. It is ideal for feeder protection in solar and wind installations.

Q4: What software is used for configuration?
A4: ABB’s PCM600 tool is used for setup, diagnostics, and firmware updates.

Q5: What is the typical operating temperature range?
A5: It operates reliably between –25°C and +55°C.