ABB REF615 HBFFAEAGNBA1ANB1XD – Protection & Control Relay for Medium-Voltage Applications

If you’re managing medium-voltage networks in industrial plants or utility substations, the ABB REF615 is one of those relays that tends to stay out of trouble—quietly doing its job until it’s really needed. From my experience, it’s become a go-to choice for engineers who want integrated motor and transformer protection without overcomplicating the setup.

One thing I appreciate is how well it balances functionality with ease of integration. It’s not just a protection relay—it supports automation tasks, metering, and even limited programmable logic, which can reduce dependency on external controllers in smaller setups.

Key Features

• Comprehensive protection functions: Includes differential, overload, earth fault, and thermal replica protection—typically sufficient for motors up to 15 MW and transformers up to 25 MVA.
• Integrated automation & logic: Supports user-defined interlocks and sequences via built-in programmable function blocks, which in many cases reduces the need for an additional PLC.
• Multi-protocol communication: Offers both IEC 61850 (MMS) and Modbus RTU/TCP, making it easier to integrate into both modern digital substations and legacy SCADA systems.
• High-resolution measurements: Provides real-time current, voltage, power, and energy data with better than 0.5% accuracy under normal conditions.
• Front-accessible design: Simplifies wiring and commissioning, especially in tight cubicles where rear access is limited.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

The REF615 is commonly found in industries where process continuity matters—like mining, oil & gas, water treatment, and manufacturing. It’s typically used to protect critical motors driving pumps, compressors, or conveyors, but also works well for small substation transformers. You might notice that utilities deploying IEC 61850-based automation often prefer this model due to its strong GOOSE messaging support and interoperability testing history.

Advantages & Value

Procurement teams tend to favor the REF615 because it reduces long-term integration costs. Its compatibility with existing ABB ecosystems means less time spent troubleshooting protocols. Also, since firmware updates are backward-compatible in most cases, lifecycle management becomes more predictable. One customer mentioned replacing three older relays with a single REF615 and cutting panel space by nearly 40%—that kind of consolidation adds up when retrofitting older facilities.

Installation & Maintenance

Install in a clean, low-humidity cabinet—IP50 minimum recommended. Make sure there’s at least 50 mm clearance on each side for airflow, especially if ambient temps exceed 50°C. Wiring should follow ABB’s separation guidelines between high- and low-voltage runs to avoid noise coupling. During commissioning, verify CT polarity and GOOSE subscription settings carefully; mistakes there can delay energization.

For maintenance, schedule annual visual inspections and cleaning of terminal covers. Calibration checks every 3–5 years are advisable unless local standards require more frequent intervals. Firmware updates are available through ABB’s PCM600 software—best done during planned outages.

Quality & Certifications

This unit carries CE, UL, CSA, and RoHS certifications—meeting key international safety and environmental standards. It’s also tested to IEC 60255 for electromagnetic compatibility and vibration resistance, which helps explain its reliability in noisy plant environments. The manufacturer provides a standard 365-day warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.

Order Placement & Delivery

In-stock units ship within one week. For larger orders or backordered items, delivery takes no more than four weeks. We accept FedEx, UPS, or DHL for express shipping—tracking provided upon dispatch. Payment terms are 50% advance, balance before shipment. Full documentation, including test reports and conformity certificates, ships with the product.