Overview
The ABB SYMAP EC series represents a cutting-edge family of digital protection relays designed to provide comprehensive protection, control, and monitoring functions for electrical power systems. These microprocessor-based devices combine advanced protection algorithms with modern communication capabilities, offering superior performance and reliability for critical power system applications.
Built on ABB's decades of experience in power system protection, the SYMAP EC series incorporates state-of-the-art digital signal processing technology, ensuring accurate fault detection, fast response times, and seamless integration with modern automation systems. The relays are engineered to meet the demanding requirements of today's interconnected power grids while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to future technological developments.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
Advanced Protection Functions
Comprehensive overcurrent, differential, distance, and directional protection algorithms with high accuracy and reliability.
Fast Processing Speed
Sub-cycle fault detection with typical operating times of 15-25ms for critical protection functions.
Flexible Configuration
Programmable logic and customizable protection schemes to meet specific application requirements.
Enhanced Communication
Multiple protocol support including IEC 61850, DNP3, and Modbus for seamless system integration.
Technical Specifications
Operating Voltage Range: 80-265V AC/DC auxiliary supply
Current Input Range: 1A or 5A nominal, up to 100A continuous
Voltage Input Range: 57.7-240V AC phase-to-neutral
Frequency Range: 45-65 Hz with adaptive sampling
Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C ambient
Protection Class: IP54 front panel, IP20 terminals
EMC Compliance: IEC 61000 series standards
Safety Standards: IEC 61010, UL, CSA certified
Related Models and Variants
The ABB SYMAP EC series encompasses multiple models tailored for different protection applications and system requirements:
| Model | Primary Application | Protection Functions | I/O Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYMAP EC 1000 | Feeder Protection | Overcurrent, Earth Fault, Voltage | 8 DI, 6 DO, 4 AI |
| SYMAP EC 2000 | Motor Protection | Motor Specific, Thermal, Differential | 12 DI, 8 DO, 6 AI |
| SYMAP EC 3000 | Generator Protection | Generator Specific, Synchronization | 16 DI, 10 DO, 8 AI |
| SYMAP EC 4000 | Transformer Protection | Differential, REF, Thermal, Gas | 20 DI, 12 DO, 12 AI |
| SYMAP EC 5000 | Line Protection | Distance, Pilot, Directional | 24 DI, 16 DO, 16 AI |
| SYMAP EC 6000 | Bus Protection | High-Speed Differential, Backup | 32 DI, 20 DO, 20 AI |
Industry Applications
The ABB SYMAP EC digital protection relays find extensive application across various sectors of the power industry, providing reliable protection and control solutions:
🏭 Industrial Manufacturing
Motor protection, feeder protection, and power quality monitoring in industrial facilities
⚡ Power Generation
Generator protection, excitation control, and synchronization in power plants
🔌 Transmission & Distribution
Line protection, transformer protection, and grid stability in T&D networks
🏢 Commercial Buildings
Electrical system protection and energy management in large commercial complexes
🛢️ Oil & Gas
Critical equipment protection in hazardous environments with specialized certifications
🏥 Healthcare Facilities
Reliable power system protection for mission-critical medical equipment and facilities
🚇 Transportation
Railway traction systems, airport ground power, and marine electrical systems
☀️ Renewable Energy
Solar farm inverter protection, wind turbine protection, and grid integration
Specific Application Benefits
Power Utilities benefit from the relay's advanced communication capabilities and compliance with utility standards like IEC 61850, enabling seamless integration with SCADA systems and smart grid infrastructure.
Industrial Facilities leverage the relay's motor protection features, including thermal modeling, locked rotor protection, and phase imbalance detection, ensuring optimal equipment reliability and reduced downtime.
Data Centers rely on the relay's fast fault clearing capabilities and comprehensive monitoring functions to maintain power quality and ensure continuous operation of critical IT infrastructure.
Advanced Protection Algorithms
Overcurrent Protection (ANSI 50/51)
The SYMAP EC series implements sophisticated overcurrent protection with multiple time-current characteristic curves including IEC and IEEE standards. The relay provides both instantaneous and time-delayed overcurrent protection with high accuracy and repeatability.
Differential Protection (ANSI 87)
Advanced differential protection algorithms with percentage restraint characteristics, harmonic blocking, and adaptive security features ensure reliable operation while maintaining high sensitivity to internal faults.
Distance Protection (ANSI 21)
Multi-zone distance protection with polygon characteristics provides selective fault clearing for transmission lines and cables. The relay incorporates load encroachment logic and power swing detection for enhanced security.
Directional Protection (ANSI 67)
Precise directional elements using various polarizing methods ensure correct fault direction determination, essential for selective coordination in interconnected power systems.
Communication and Integration
The SYMAP EC series supports modern communication protocols and standards, enabling seamless integration with existing and future automation systems:
Communication Protocols
IEC 61850: Native support for modern substation automation
DNP3: Comprehensive DNP3.0 implementation for SCADA integration
Modbus RTU/TCP: Legacy system compatibility and industrial networking
IEC 60870-5-103: Utility-grade communication for protection devices
GOOSE Messaging: High-speed peer-to-peer communication
SNTP: Network time synchronization for accurate event timestamping
The relay's communication capabilities enable real-time monitoring, remote configuration, and comprehensive event analysis, supporting modern maintenance strategies and system optimization.
Installation and Configuration
Physical Installation
The SYMAP EC relays are designed for panel mounting in standard 19-inch racks or custom enclosures. The compact design minimizes panel space requirements while providing excellent accessibility for maintenance and operation.
Configuration Software
ABB's dedicated configuration software provides an intuitive interface for relay setup, testing, and maintenance. The software supports offline configuration development and online parameter adjustment with comprehensive validation and simulation capabilities.
Testing and Commissioning
Built-in self-monitoring and diagnostic functions facilitate commissioning and periodic testing. The relay provides comprehensive test reporting and supports automated test procedures for efficient maintenance operations.
