Description
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3. Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter Name | Specification Value |
|---|---|
| Product Family | ABB Line Protection (Legacy Series) |
| Device Type | Line Distance Protection Relay |
| Ordering Code | 1MRK002480-AE (Specific hardware revision/configuration) |
| Application | HV/EHV Transmission Lines |
| Auxiliary Voltage | 24V, 48V, 110V, 220V DC (Selectable via jumper/module) |
| Current Input | 1A or 5A (CT Secondary) |
| Voltage Input | 100V, 110V, 115V, 120V AC |
| Protection Zones | Typically 4 Forward + 1 Reverse Quadrilateral/Circular Characteristics |
| Communication Protocol | LONWORKS, Modbus RTU, IEC 60870-5-103 (via serial ports) |
| Protection Functions | Distance (21), Overcurrent (50/51), Earth Fault (50N/51N), Power Swing (68), Weak Infeed (WI), Sync Check (25) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +55°C |
| Mounting | Flush Mounting / Semi-Flush Mounting (Standard 19-inch rack compatible with adapter) |
| Status | Legacy Product (Superseded by RED670/REL670 in Relion series) |
| Engineering Tool | ABB PCM600 (older versions) or proprietary legacy tools (e.g., CAP501/Relay Manager) |
4. Product Introduction
The ABB REL551 (Ordering Code: 1MRK002480-AE) is a robust digital line distance protection relay designed for the protection of high-voltage transmission lines. As part of ABB’s legacy protection portfolio (predating the Relion® 615/670 series), the REL551 has been a workhorse in utility substations worldwide for decades, known for its reliability and precise impedance measurement algorithms.The specific ordering code 1MRK002480-AE denotes a particular hardware configuration, likely including specific voltage ranges, communication interface options (such as LONWORKS or specific serial configurations), and firmware capabilities tailored for regional grid requirements.Key Features:
- Quadrilateral/Impedance Characteristics: Provides flexible tripping zones to accurately distinguish between fault locations and load encroachment.
- Power Swing Blocking: Prevents unwanted tripping during system oscillations while maintaining sensitivity to faults occurring during swings.
- Weak Infeed Logic: Ensures correct operation when one end of the line has weak or no generation source.
- High-Speed Operation: Typical trip times < 20ms for zone 1 faults.
- Communication: Supports integration into older SCADA systems via serial protocols; some variants support LONWORKS for substation LANs.
Although superseded by the REL670 (Relion 670 series) which offers IEC 61850 native support and advanced cybersecurity, the REL551 remains critical in many existing substations. We supply genuine New Surplus units that are unused and factory-sealed, ideal for spare parts or like-for-like replacements.
5. Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Part Relevance | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Power LEDs | Auxiliary Supply Failure | ❌ Low | Measure DC/AC input at terminals; check fuses | Verify voltage matches unit rating (e.g., 110V DC) |
| “Hardware Fault” / Watchdog | CPU or Memory Error | ✅ High | Check front panel error code; connect to service tool | Restart unit; if persistent, module replacement needed |
| Distance Zone Maloperation | VT/CT Wiring or Ratio Error | ⚠️ Med | Review measured V/I values on display; check secondary wiring | Verify VT fuse status and CT polarity |
| Communication Timeout | Baud Rate/Address Mismatch | ⚠️ Med | Check DIP switches for ID/Baud; test with laptop | Ensure SCADA master settings match relay config |
| False Trip on Power Swing | Swing Blocking Setting Incorrect | ⚠️ Med | Analyze disturbance record (if available) | Adjust swing characteristic diameter/speed settings |
| Display Blank | LCD Module Failure | ⚠️ Med | Check contrast setting; listen for fan/beep | May require display board replacement |
| Zone 1 Reach Error | Line Parameter Setting Wrong | ⚠️ Med | Compare settings against line design data | Recalculate impedance settings (R/X) based on line length |
Closing Suggestion: For the REL551, accurate line parameter settings (positive/negative/zero sequence impedance) are critical. If experiencing reach errors:
- Verify the VT/CT ratios entered in the relay match the field instrument transformers.
- Check the Line Angle setting.
- Contact support with a screenshot of the measured impedance during a test injection.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does the ordering code “1MRK002480-AE” specifically indicate?A: ABB ordering codes are highly specific.
- 1MRK: Indicates the product family (Protection/Control).
- 002480: The base model identifier for this specific REL551 configuration.
- -AE: The revision or suffix indicating specific options, such as:
- Auxiliary voltage range (e.g., 110V DC).
- Communication port type (e.g., RS485 vs. LON).
- Firmware version pre-loaded.
- Regional customization (e.g., specific language or standard compliance).
Recommendation: When replacing, try to match the full ordering code exactly. If substituting with a different suffix (e.g., -AF), verify the auxiliary voltage and communication pinout first.
Q2: Is the REL551 still supported by ABB? Can I get firmware updates?A: The REL551 is a legacy product.
- Support: ABB provides limited “sustainment” support for installed bases, but active development has ceased.
- Firmware: New firmware releases are rare. Updates are typically only for critical security patches or major bug fixes found in the field.
- Replacement Strategy: For new projects or major upgrades, ABB recommends migrating to the REL670 (Relion 670 series). However, for maintenance of existing sites, the REL551 is still widely used and supported via the global surplus market and specialized service partners.
Q3: What software is needed to configure the REL551?A: Configuration typically requires legacy ABB tools, which may include:
- CAP501 (Computer Aided Protection): An older Windows-based tool for setting parameters.
- Relay Manager: Specific to the 500-series relays.
- PCM600: Newer versions of PCM600 may support older relays via specific device descriptions, but often legacy tools are more reliable for the REL551.
Note: Running these tools often requires older Windows environments (Windows XP/7) or Virtual Machines, as driver compatibility with Windows 10/11 can be challenging for old serial converters.
Q4: Can the REL551 communicate via IEC 61850?A: No, not natively. The REL551 predates the widespread adoption of IEC 61850. It primarily uses:
- Serial Protocols: Modbus RTU, IEC 60870-5-103, DNP3 (via serial).
- LONWORKS: Some variants (like certain 1MRK… codes) have built-in LON interfaces.
Workaround: To integrate into an IEC 61850 substation, you would need an external Protocol Gateway (e.g., ABB COM600 or third-party gateways) to map the REL551’s serial data to MMS/GOOSE.
Q5: How do I verify if a used/surplus REL551 is functional?A: Since this is a legacy unit, verification is key:
- Visual Inspection: Check for burnt components, swollen capacitors, or corroded terminals.
- Power-Up Test: Apply rated auxiliary voltage; ensure “Healthy”/”Run” LED illuminates and no “Hardware Fault” appears.
- Self-Test: Run the internal self-test routine via the front panel or software.
- Secondary Injection: If possible, perform a quick injection test to verify one distance zone trips correctly.
We provide a 12-month warranty on our surplus units and perform basic power-up tests before shipping.
Q6: What is the difference between REL551 and REL561?A: Both are legacy line protection relays from the same era:
- REL551: Primarily a Distance Protection relay (focused on impedance zones).
- REL561: Often configured as a Line Differential protection relay (using pilot wire or communication channels for current comparison), though it also includes distance backup functions.
If your scheme relies on pilot differential protection, the REL561 is the typical choice. For step-distance schemes, the REL551 is standard.
Q7: Do you provide technical assistance for setting calculations?A: Yes. Our team includes engineers experienced with legacy ABB relays. We can assist with:
- Interpreting the Setting Group structure.
- Verifying Impedance Zone calculations (Primary vs. Secondary ohms).
- Troubleshooting Communication mapping issues.
Please provide your single-line diagram and line parameters for specific advice.
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+86 18030182217
+86 18030182217
sandydcsplc@gmail.com