ABB RET670 Modules | 1MRK004816-AB

Technical Dossier

Product Details And Specifications

ABB RET670 Series: Comprehensive Module Range and Technical Overview

The ABB RET670 is a transformer protection relay belonging to ABB's Relion 670 Series, a platform-based protection and control product line engineered for high-voltage transmission and sub-transmission applications. Deployed globally in chemical plants, nuclear power stations, oil refineries, and large-scale grid substations, the RET670 occupies a critical position in primary equipment protection. Its IEC 61850 Edition 1 and Edition 2 compliance, combined with ANSI/IEEE standard support, makes it one of the most widely installed transformer differential protection relays in heavy industry. The 670 Series platform architecture allows hardware modularity and firmware scalability, enabling operators to maintain a single relay platform across multiple protection functions without replacing the entire unit.

The Evolution of RET670 Architecture

The RET670 was introduced as part of ABB's second-generation Relion platform, succeeding the REF, RET, and RED 500-series relays. The original RET670 1.x firmware generation supported basic transformer differential protection with harmonic restraint and inrush detection. Version 2.0 introduced expanded I/O capacity, enhanced GOOSE messaging over IEC 61850, and support for dual-breaker configurations. Version 2.2 added PCM600 tool integration improvements and extended disturbance recording capacity. The current generation (2.2.x) supports up to 30 analog inputs, binary I/O expansion modules, and redundant communication via PRP/HSR protocols. Legacy 1.x hardware is no longer manufactured but remains in service at thousands of substations worldwide, creating sustained demand for spare modules and replacement cards. Compatibility between 1.x and 2.x hardware generations is limited — CPU boards, binary I/O modules, and communication adapters are not interchangeable across major versions without firmware validation.

RET670 Full Catalog & Functionalities (SKU List)

The following SKUs represent verified, commonly sourced components within the ABB RET670 and broader Relion 670 platform. Each entry reflects a distinct hardware function:

1MRK004816-AB: RET670 transformer differential protection relay, standard configuration, IEC 61850 Ed.2
1MRK004816-AA: RET670 base unit, single-breaker configuration, IEC 61850 Ed.1
1MRK004816-AC: RET670 advanced configuration with extended I/O and dual redundant Ethernet
1MRK002473-BA: Binary input module, 16-channel, 24–250 VDC, for 670 Series backplane
1MRK002473-CA: Binary output module, 24-channel, relay output, 670 Series
1MRK002473-DA: Analog input module, 12-channel, 1A/5A CT input, 670 Series
1MRK002473-EA: Power supply module, 24–250 VDC input, 670 Series chassis
1MRK002473-FA: Power supply module, 100–240 VAC input, 670 Series chassis
1MRK002473-GA: CPU module, main processor board, 670 Series platform
1MRK002473-HA: Communication module, IEC 61850 Ed.2, dual-port Ethernet, 670 Series
1MRK002473-JA: LON communication module, 670 Series, legacy substation bus
1MRK002473-KA: LDCM module, line differential communication, 670 Series
1MRK002473-LA: GPS time synchronization module, IRIG-B / IEEE 1588, 670 Series
1MRK002473-MA: HMI front panel module, local display and keypad, 670 Series
1MRK002473-NA: Optical fiber interface module, ST connector, 670 Series
1MRK002473-PA: Analog output module, 4–20 mA, transducer output, 670 Series
1MRK002473-QA: Transformer temperature input module, RTD/Pt100, 670 Series
1MRK002473-RA: Chassis backplane, 6-slot, 670 Series rack mount
1MRK002473-SA: Chassis backplane, 12-slot, 670 Series rack mount

Sourcing Hard-to-Find & Obsolete RET670 Parts

ABB officially discontinued production of RET670 1.x generation hardware. However, the installed base across global transmission infrastructure means that demand for spare modules — particularly CPU boards, binary I/O cards, and power supply units — remains active. DriveKNMS maintains a dedicated inventory of tested RET670 spare parts sourced from decommissioned substations, authorized surplus channels, and OEM-certified refurbishment programs. For end-users operating aging 670 Series installations, DriveKNMS provides lifecycle extension support including: direct module replacement without full relay panel replacement, firmware version matching to ensure hardware-software compatibility, and cross-reference services to identify equivalent replacement modules where original part numbers are no longer available. All obsolete RET670 modules supplied by DriveKNMS are accompanied by full traceability documentation and test records.

Quality Control for the RET670 Range

The RET670 platform uses a proprietary backplane bus architecture that requires specialized validation procedures beyond standard relay testing. DriveKNMS applies the following test protocol to all RET670 modules prior to dispatch: (1) Backplane bus communication integrity check — each module is seated in a reference chassis and polled via the internal serial bus to confirm correct slot addressing and data exchange. (2) Binary I/O functional test — all input channels are stimulated at rated voltage (24 VDC, 48 VDC, 110 VDC, 220 VDC as applicable) and output relay contacts are verified for make/break continuity. (3) Analog input calibration verification — CT and VT input channels are tested at 1A, 5A, and rated voltage to confirm measurement accuracy within ±0.5% of nominal. (4) Power supply load test — PSU modules are tested under full rated load for a minimum of 30 minutes with output voltage stability monitored. (5) IEC 61850 communication test — GOOSE publishing and subscribing is verified on communication modules using a reference IED test environment. All test results are documented and supplied with each shipment.