ABB RED670 – Line Differential Protection & Control Device

1. Introduction

The ABB RED670 is a high-performance line differential protection IED (Intelligent Electronic Device) designed for transmission and sub-transmission line applications. As part of the ABB Relion® 670 series, RED670 provides ultra-fast, highly selective fault detection with advanced measurement accuracy and stability. It supports differential, distance, and backup protection functions, ensuring maximum security, reliability, and flexibility for modern power networks.

2. Key Functional Features

High-speed differential protection suitable for long lines, short lines, and cables.

Multi-terminal support enabling up to five line ends for complex network configurations.

Powerful disturbance recording with high-resolution oscillography.

Redundant communication options, including IEC 61850, GOOSE, and sampled values.

Adaptive algorithms that maintain stability even during severe system transients.

Integrated control functions for breakers, isolators, and interlock logic.

Cyber-secure design, supporting modern authentication and encryption standards.

3. Technical Parameters

Protection Type: Differential, distance, overcurrent, overload, breaker failure, and more

Communication Standards: IEC 61850 Ed.1/Ed.2, GOOSE messaging, redundant Ethernet

Sampling Rate: High-speed acquisition supporting wide-area differential schemes

Power Supply: 24–250 V DC / 100–240 V AC (model-dependent)

Analog Inputs: Multiple CT/VT channels with high-accuracy measurement

Outputs: High-speed trip relays, binary I/O, configurable logic signals

Operating Temperature: −40°C to +55°C

Mounting Type: 19-inch rack or panel installation

Device Series: ABB Relion® 670 platform

4. Internal Structure & Design

The RED670 incorporates a modular, high-stability architecture:

Multi-board processing structure separating protection, communication, and measurement tasks

High-isolation analog interface ensuring CT/VT accuracy and noise suppression

Cooling-optimized enclosure supporting continuous operation in harsh substations

Factory-calibrated measurement modules for long-term accuracy

Dual-processor protection core improving reliability and reducing response delays

Front-panel LCD and LEDs offering easy access to system status and diagnostics

5. Application Areas

The ABB RED670 is widely used in medium-to-high voltage transmission environments:

Transmission line differential protection (single or multi-terminal)

Cable and overhead line networks

Power plant outgoing feeders

Interconnected grid protection schemes

Substation automation systems (SAS)

Tie-line protection between utilities

6. Installation & Maintenance Guidelines

Install in a temperature-controlled substation panel with adequate ventilation.

Ensure correct CT/VT wiring and polarity verification before energizing.

Use fiber-optic or redundant Ethernet links for high-speed differential communication.

Perform periodic testing using ABB-recommended relay test equipment.

Keep firmware updated to benefit from new cybersecurity and stability features.

Regularly back up configuration files and event logs.

Follow ESD handling guidelines during module removal or replacement.

7. Summary

The ABB RED670 provides top-tier differential protection with precise fault detection, flexible configuration, and robust communication interfaces. Engineered for modern digital substations, it ensures network reliability, rapid response to disturbances, and seamless integration with advanced protection and control schemes.