ABSTRACT:
This research investigates the integration of Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS) technology with Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) using IEC 61850 communication to implement and evaluate protection systems within digital substations. A fully digital Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing setup was established by connecting an RTDS equipped with a GTNETx2 card to the ABB REX640 IED. The IED received real-time voltage, current, and breaker status data from the RTDS and sent trip signals in return. In parallel, a performance comparison was conducted between traditional Analog-based protection and IEC 61850-based digital protection schemes using identical fault scenarios and system parameters. Results demonstrated a reliable and stable IEC 61850 communication link, with fault detection and isolation times of less than 6 milliseconds. Additionally, the digital scheme achieved a response of up to 65.6% faster than the analog setup. These findings highlight the effectiveness of IEC 61850-based digital substations in enhancing protection system speed and reliability, emphasizing their importance for academic research and smart grid applications.
Presented by Omar Alamr, Mutah University