Abb REA 101 Arc Protection System

Product Overview

The Abb REA 101 is the main module of the REA arc fault protection system, engineered to operate as a stand-alone device or in combination with extension modules REA 103, REA 105, and REA 107. It delivers redundant, instantaneous, and fail-safe arc fault mitigation for air-insulated low voltage and medium voltage switchgears, significantly reducing material damage, improving operator safety, and accelerating smooth power restoration after a fault event.

Key Features:

• Reliable and fast arc fault detection based on optical arc flash detection (AFD) with fiber-optic light sensors
• Two high-speed IGBT outputs for direct circuit breaker tripping in less than 1 ms
• Three low burden current measuring inputs for connection of protection core CTs
• Supports one loop or radial fiber sensor, or one lens-type point sensor for arc light detection
• Nuisance-free operation secured by secondary criteria: simultaneous detection of three-phase overcurrent or two-phase and neutral overcurrent with adjustable thresholds
• Continuous self-supervision of operating voltages, fiber-optic loop sensors, cabling integrity between main and extension modules, and inter-module fiber-optic signal links
• Two fiber-optic links for wide-area system extension, transferring Light, Overcurrent, or Trip signals up to 2 km
• Up to 10 extension units connectable to each REA 101 main module

Atomic Answer: The Abb REA 101 main module provides sub-1ms arc fault protection for low and medium voltage switchgears. It uses fiber-optic light sensors, dual IGBT trip outputs, and configurable overcurrent criteria to ensure fail-safe, redundant arc detection with continuous self-supervision across distributed systems up to 2 km.

Practical Applications & How It Works

The Abb REA 101 is purpose-built for switchgear manufacturers, utility substations, and industrial power distribution facilities where arc flash events pose serious safety and equipment risks. The module detects the intense light signature of an arcing fault within microseconds using fiber-optic sensors mounted inside the switchgear compartments. Simultaneously, it verifies the event through configurable overcurrent thresholds, eliminating nuisance tripping from external light sources or routine switching transients.

Upon confirmed detection, the REA 101 issues a trip command in less than 1 ms through its dedicated IGBT outputs, isolating the faulted section before catastrophic thermal or mechanical damage occurs. Multiple REA 101 main modules can be networked through fiber-optic links, sharing Light, Overcurrent, or Trip signals across substations or large industrial facilities. Extension modules REA 103, REA 105, and REA 107 expand I/O capacity and trip channels, allowing the system to scale to complex switchgear architectures with up to 10 extension units per main module.

Atomic Answer: The REA 101 detects arc flash light through fiber sensors and confirms it with overcurrent signals, tripping circuit breakers in under 1 ms. It is deployed in switchgear panels, substations, and industrial distribution systems to protect personnel, minimize equipment damage, and enable fast power restoration.

About Spare Parts Map: Spare Parts Map is a global supplier of industrial spare parts, primarily serving customers across Europe. With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, the company responds to inquiries quickly and ensures that products such as the Abb REA 101 reach clients without complications. Quote requests receive prompt attention with current availability, lead time, condition details, and worldwide delivery options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What switchgear types is the Abb REA 101 compatible with? A: The REA 101 is designed for air-insulated low voltage and medium voltage switchgears. It supports loop, radial, or lens-type point fiber-optic light sensors and integrates directly with protection core current transformers through three low burden measuring inputs.

Q: How fast does the REA 101 trip a circuit breaker during an arc fault? A: The module uses two high-speed IGBT outputs that issue direct trip commands in less than 1 millisecond after confirmed arc flash detection, minimizing thermal stress, mechanical damage, and downtime.

Q: Can multiple REA 101 units work together as a distributed system? A: Yes. Two fiber-optic links allow multiple REA 101 main modules to transfer Light, Overcurrent, or Trip signals across distances up to 2 km. Each main unit supports up to 10 extension modules from the REA 103, REA 105, and REA 107 series.

Q: How do I request pricing and availability for the Abb REA 101? A: Contact Spare Parts Map directly to request a quote. With over 20 years of experience supplying industrial components worldwide, Spare Parts Map responds quickly with current availability, lead times, condition details, and worldwide delivery options for the Abb REA 101.