ABB REU615E-D HBUAEAADNCA1BNN1XD – Motor Protection Relay for Medium-Voltage Applications

The ABB REU615E-D is a compact yet powerful motor protection relay designed primarily for medium-voltage induction and synchronous motors up to 15 kV. From my experience working with industrial plants and distribution networks, this model stands out in environments where space is limited but protection logic needs to remain robust—like retrofit projects in older substations or compact switchgear setups.

One thing I appreciate is how it balances core functionality with smart integration. It doesn’t try to do everything, which actually makes it more reliable in dedicated motor protection roles. You might notice that some users initially expect full feeder-level features, but once they see the streamlined diagnostics and fast trip response, they typically end up satisfied—especially in pump stations, conveyor systems, and compressor applications.

Key Features

• Comprehensive motor protection: Includes thermal overload, stall, start-up supervision, phase imbalance, earth fault, and undercurrent protection—covers most common failure modes in industrial motors.
• Integrated measurement and monitoring: Real-time display of current, voltage (via auxiliary input), power, and energy values directly on the front panel, reducing dependency on SCADA during local troubleshooting.
• Modular communication options: Supports IEC 61850 GOOSE messaging (when configured), Modbus RTU over RS-485, and optional fiber optic links—seems to be especially useful in modernized substations aiming for interoperability.
• User-friendly HMI: Large graphical LCD with navigation wheel simplifies setting changes and event log review without requiring a laptop onsite.
• Secure configuration: Password protection and configurable access levels help prevent unauthorized changes—something several plant engineers have mentioned as critical during shift handovers.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

This relay is commonly deployed in water treatment plants, mining operations, oil & gas pumping stations, and manufacturing facilities where motors drive high-inertia loads. In many cases, it replaces older electromechanical relays in 3.3 kV to 13.8 kV systems. Its compact size makes it ideal for retrofits into legacy metal-clad switchgear where depth clearance is tight.

A client recently used it to protect a 1250 kW slurry pump motor in a copper mine—they appreciated the built-in thermal replica function, which helped avoid nuisance trips during frequent starts caused by upstream process delays.

Advantages & Value

While not the most feature-rich in ABB’s lineup, the REU615E-D delivers solid value through reliability and ease of integration. Procurement teams often favor it because spare units can be kept on-site without significant cost impact, and technicians require minimal training to operate or replace them.

Compatibility with existing ABB protection schemes and support for IEC 61850 (with proper configuration) means future upgrades are smoother. Some users report saving time during commissioning due to pre-loaded templates for common motor types.

Installation & Maintenance

Install in standard 144 mm² cutout panels per IEC 60255. Ensure adequate ventilation behind the unit—minimum 50 mm clearance recommended, especially in enclosed cabinets with other heat-generating devices. Use shielded twisted-pair cables for analog and communication wiring to minimize EMI interference.

Safety note: Always isolate CT circuits before servicing; never leave them open-circuited under load. Routine maintenance includes checking terminal tightness annually, cleaning dust from vents, reviewing event logs quarterly, and applying firmware updates when released—though in practice, many installations run years without needing updates unless integrating with new SCADA systems.

Quality & Certifications

Certified to major international standards including CE, UL 508, CSA, and compliant with IEC 60255 series for protection relays. Meets RoHS directives. Designed and tested according to ISO 9001 quality management processes at ABB facilities.

Comes with a 365-day warranty against manufacturing defects. Units are tested prior to shipment, and configuration backup files can be provided upon request for faster field replacement.

Delivery typically takes one week if in stock; otherwise, no longer than four weeks. Payment terms are 50% upfront, balance before dispatch. Shipped via FedEx, UPS, or DHL depending on destination and urgency.