Description
Detailed parameter table
| Parameter name | Parameter value |
| Product model | REA101 – AAA |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product category | Arc protection relay |
| Operating voltage | 48 V DC / 24 V AC / 110 – 240 V AC (50/60 Hz) / 110 – 250 V DC |
| Current rating | Up to 10 A (relay contacts) |
| Protection level | Class 1 arc fault |
| Relay contacts | 3 x 5 A SPDT |
| Operating temperature range | – 25 °C to + 70 °C |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 125 mm x 100mm x 50 mm |
| Weight | 4.34 kg |
| Housing material | Polycarbonate |
| Sensor type | Optical arc flash detection (AFD) with fiber – optic light sensor |
| Current measuring inputs | Three low burden for connection of protection core CTs |
| Outputs | Two high – speed IGBT for direct CB tripping in less than 1 ms, one conventional relay output for circuit – breaker failure protection or alarm |
| Communication | Supports fiber – optic links for fast transfer of light, overcurrent or trip signals |
| Certification | CO, CQ (compliance with relevant standards) |
ABB REA101-AAA
Product introduction
The ABB REA101 – AAA is a high – performance arc protection relay designed to be a cornerstone in safeguarding electrical systems against the potentially devastating effects of arc flash events. In industrial and commercial electrical setups, arc flashes can occur due to various factors such as insulation breakdown, equipment malfunctions, or human errors. The REA101 – AAA steps in to mitigate these risks, providing a reliable and fast – acting solution.
This arc protection relay is not just a single – function device; it is part of a comprehensive arc fault protection system. It can operate as a stand – alone unit, but its true strength lies in its ability to be integrated with other REA101 modules as well as extension modules like the REA103, REA105, or REA107. This modular approach allows for the customization of the arc protection system according to the specific requirements of different electrical installations, whether in a large – scale industrial plant or a medium – sized commercial building.
Core advantages and technical highlights
Rapid response based on optical detection: At the heart of the REA101 – AAA’s protection mechanism is its optical arc flash detection (AFD) system, which utilizes fiber – optic light sensors. These sensors are extremely sensitive to the intense light emitted during an arc flash event. Once an arc flash is detected, the relay can initiate a response in less than 1 ms using its two high – speed IGBT outputs for direct circuit breaker (CB) tripping. This lightning – fast response time is crucial as it minimizes the duration of the arc flash, thereby reducing the potential for damage to equipment and harm to personnel.
Nuisance – free operation with secondary criteria: To ensure that the relay does not trip unnecessarily, it incorporates secondary criteria. It can be configured to require the simultaneous detection of three – phase overcurrent or two – phase and neutral overcurrent with adjustable thresholds. This additional layer of protection helps to distinguish between a genuine arc flash event and normal electrical transients, providing a more reliable and stable protection system.
Self – supervision for continuous reliability: The REA101 – AAA is equipped with a self – supervision system that continuously monitors various aspects of its operation. It keeps an eye on the operating voltages, the integrity of the fiber – optic loop sensors used for arc flash detection, the cabling between the main module and the extension modules, and the fiber – optic signal links between the main modules. This self – monitoring ensures that the relay is always in a ready – to – protect state and can quickly identify and report any issues that may arise, enhancing the overall reliability of the arc protection system.
Versatile connectivity and expandability: With its ability to support one loop or radial type fiber sensor, or one lens – type point sensor for arc light detection, the REA101 – AAA offers flexibility in sensor installation. Additionally, it has three low – burden current measuring inputs for connecting protection core current transformers (CTs). It also supports wide – area system extension with two fiber – optic links, enabling the fast transfer of light, overcurrent, or trip signals between the main REA101 modules, even over long distances of up to 2 kms. For each REA101 main unit, up to 10 extension units can be connected, allowing for the creation of a large – scale and comprehensive arc protection network.
Typical application scenarios
Industrial manufacturing plants: In factories with extensive electrical systems powering machinery, conveyor belts, and other equipment, arc flash incidents can lead to significant production losses. The REA101 – AAA can be installed in the switchgear rooms to protect against arc flashes. For example, in a metal fabrication plant, where high – power electrical tools and machinery are used, the relay can detect arc flashes in the switchgear feeding these devices. If an arc flash occurs, it can quickly trip the circuit breakers, preventing damage to the expensive machinery and protecting the workers in the vicinity.
Power distribution centers: These centers are responsible for distributing electrical power to various end – users. The REA101 – AAA plays a vital role in safeguarding the switchgear and transformers in power distribution centers. In a substation, the relay can be integrated into the arc protection system to protect against arc flashes that could be caused by equipment failures or external factors such as lightning strikes. By quickly interrupting the power supply in case of an arc flash, it helps to maintain the integrity of the power distribution network and prevent widespread blackouts.
Commercial buildings: Large commercial buildings, such as shopping malls, hospitals, and data centers, have complex electrical systems. The REA101 – AAA can be used to protect the electrical infrastructure in these buildings. In a data center, for instance, where the continuous operation of servers and other IT equipment is critical, an arc flash could lead to data loss and system downtime. The arc protection relay can be installed in the switchgear supplying power to the data center’s equipment, ensuring that any potential arc flash events are quickly detected and mitigated, protecting the valuable IT assets and minimizing business disruptions.
ABB REA101-AAA
Related model recommendations
ABB REA101 – CAA: Another model in the REA101 series, which may have different voltage or current ratings, or specific features tailored for certain applications. It can be considered as an alternative depending on the exact requirements of the electrical system.
ABB REA103: An extension module that can be used in conjunction with the REA101 – AAA to expand the functionality of the arc protection system. It may offer additional input or output channels, or specific features for enhanced protection in certain areas of the electrical installation.
ABB REA105: Similar to the REA103, the REA105 is an extension module that can be integrated with the REA101 – AAA. It can provide additional capabilities such as more precise sensor integration or advanced communication options for a more comprehensive arc protection solution.
ABB REA107: This extension module can further enhance the performance of the REA101 – AAA – based arc protection system. It may offer features like improved self – monitoring capabilities or better compatibility with specific types of electrical equipment.
Installation, commissioning and maintenance instructions
Installation preparation: Before installation, carefully check the operating voltage requirements of the REA101 – AAA and ensure that the power supply in the installation location meets these requirements. Mount the relay in a suitable location, preferably in a well – ventilated and dry area away from sources of electromagnetic interference. Use appropriate mounting brackets and ensure that the relay is securely fastened. When connecting the fiber – optic sensors and current measuring inputs, follow the provided wiring diagrams carefully to ensure proper functionality. Make sure that all cables are properly shielded and terminated to prevent signal interference.
Maintenance suggestions: Regularly inspect the REA101 – AAA for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks in the polycarbonate housing. Check the connections of the fiber – optic sensors, current measuring inputs, and outputs to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. Periodically test the relay’s functionality by simulating arc flash events (using appropriate test equipment) to verify that it responds correctly. Update the relay’s firmware (if available) to ensure that it has the latest features and bug fixes. If any issues are detected during maintenance, refer to the ABB user manual or contact ABB’s technical support for assistance.
Service and guarantee commitment
ABB provides a comprehensive service and guarantee commitment for the REA101 – AAA. The product comes with a standard warranty period, during which ABB will repair or replace the relay in case of any manufacturing defects. ABB’s global technical support team is available to assist customers with installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting. They can offer remote support through online communication channels or, if necessary, on – site visits by trained technicians. ABB also provides regular software updates and technical documentation to help customers make the most of the REA101 – AAA’s capabilities. This commitment reflects ABB’s dedication to ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical systems through its high – quality arc protection products.
