ABB MT-91-ARCFPA – Arc Flash Protection Assembly

The ABB MT-91-ARCFPA is a high-speed arc flash protection relay designed to detect and mitigate arc flash hazards in electrical systems. It ensures rapid isolation of faults to protect personnel and equipment in industries such as power distribution, manufacturing, and oil and gas.

Technical Specifications

Functional Features

1. Ultra-Fast Arc Flash Detection

   • Combines light intensity (via fiber-optic sensors) and current signature analysis for reliable arc flash detection.
   • Adjustable thresholds for light intensity and overcurrent to reduce nuisance tripping.

2. Integration with Protection Systems

   • Generates trip signals to circuit breakers or contactors within 10 ms to isolate faults.
   • Compatible with ABB’s Relion® protection relays and Emax 2 air circuit breakers.

3. Diagnostics & Event Logging

   • Stores event records with timestamps, light/current waveforms, and trip history.
   • Real-time monitoring via HMI or remote SCADA systems.

4. Communication & Cybersecurity

   • Modbus RTU/TCP or IEC 61850 for integration with automation systems.
   • Role-based access control and encrypted communication (TLS/SSL).

5. Flexible Configuration

   • Configurable zones for selective tripping in complex electrical panels.
   • Supports redundant sensor configurations for critical applications.

6. Industrial Resilience

   • Operates in high-EMI, high-vibration, and extreme-temperature environments.
   • Fiber-optic sensors immune to electromagnetic interference.

Application Areas

1. Switchgear & MCC Panels

   • Protects low-voltage (LV) and medium-voltage (MV) switchgear from arc flash hazards.

2. Power Substations

   • Safeguards transformers, busbars, and circuit breakers in transmission networks.

3. Oil & Gas Facilities

   • Prevents arc flash incidents in hazardous area electrical installations (e.g., offshore platforms).

4. Industrial Plants

   • Ensures safety in motor control centers (MCCs) and process automation systems.

5. Renewable Energy

   • Protects solar inverters and wind turbine electrical systems.

6. Data Centers

   • Secures critical power distribution infrastructure.

Compliance & Standards

• Safety: IEC 60255-27 (arc flash protection), NFPA 70E (workplace safety).
• EMC: IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), IEC 61000-6-4 (emissions).
• Environmental: RoHS, IP54 (optional).

Conclusion

The ABB MT-91-ARCFPA is a critical safety solution for mitigating arc flash risks in electrical installations. Its ultra-fast detection, multi-sensor integration, and industrial-grade design ensure personnel safety and equipment protection in high-risk environments. Designed for reliability and compliance with global standards, it is widely used in power, oil and gas, and industrial sectors to minimize downtime and operational risks.