Overview
The ARB4 series arc protection device is an intelligent protection unit integrating protection, measurement, monitoring, control, communication, fault recording, and event recording.
Designed for 0.4kV~35kV medium and low voltage distribution systems, it provides reliable arc protection.
The device features an integrated hardware design with built-in power module, CPU module, arc acquisition module, current/voltage acquisition module, I/O module, and communication module. Specialized protection algorithms ensure flexible implementation, strong anti-interference, and high reliability.
Its compact structure suits space-limited switchgear, widely used in power, water conservancy, transportation, industry, mining, new energy, ships, and buildings.
Highlight
Compact & Powerful
- 550MHz CPU, 16-bit ADC
- 48 samples/cycle, parallel proc
- 512KB Flash + 4MB NorFlash
- 512KB SRAM, real-time computing
- Supports up to 3 arc sensors
Fast & Reliable Protection
- Arc single criterion ≤3.8ms
- Arc+current dual ≤7.8ms
- Arc+voltage dual available
- Failure protection & CT monitor
- Non-electric protection included
- Fault recording (16 records)
Flexible I/O & Communication
- 4 current + 3 voltage channels
- 8 digital inputs, 5 relay outputs
- 1 RS485 port (Modbus, IEC103)
- IRIG-B timing via same port
- Trip matrix for output mapping
Rugged & High Immunity
- EMC level IV certified
- Operating temp -10℃~+55℃
- Storage temp -25℃~+70℃
- IP20 protection, flame retardant
- Continuous self-diagnosis
Function
| Arc Protection | Three criteria: arc only, arc+current, arc+zero-sequence voltage. Configurable delay and output mapping. |
| Arc Monitoring & Fault Location | Real-time light intensity monitoring, records intensity and sensor ID for fault point location. |
| Sensor & Fiber Link Self-Test | Continuous monitoring of arc sensor and fiber link; alarm on failure. |
| Failure Protection | Triggers if associated arc protection operates and current remains above threshold after delay. |
| CT Disconnection Monitoring | Detects open CT circuits with configurable current thresholds and delay. |
| Non-Electric Protection | External input (e.g., gas, temperature) can trigger protection with configurable delay and output. |
| Device Self-Test | Internal fault or power loss triggers alarm with dedicated output. |
| Maintenance Lock | Locks tripping or communication via external input during maintenance. |
| Fault Recording | Up to 16 records, each with 4 segments (pre-fault 2 cycles, post-fault 10 cycles). |
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Specification
| Parameter | Value |
| Power Supply | AC/DC 110V, 220V; DC 48V, 24V (tolerance ±20%) |
| Rated Current (In) | 5A / 1A AC |
| Rated Voltage (Un) | 100V / 100/√3V AC |
| Frequency | 50Hz / 60Hz (40~70Hz) |
| Current Measurement Range | 0.04In ~ 20In |
| Voltage Measurement Range | 0.1V ~ 120V |
| Accuracy | Current/Voltage: ±1% |
| Arc Protection Trip Time | Single criterion: ≤3.8ms (2x threshold) Dual criterion: ≤7.8ms (2x threshold & 2x current set) |
| Digital Inputs | 8 active inputs; AC/DC 220V, 110V, 48V, 24V (configurable) |
| Digital Outputs | 5 normally open relay contacts (NO) |
| Communication | 1×RS485 (Modbus, IEC103) multiplexed with IRIG-B timing |
| Arc Sensor Inputs | Up to 3 (ARB4-A1/A2/A3) |
| Operating Temperature | -10℃ ~ +55℃ |
| Storage Temperature | -25℃ ~ +70℃ |
| Relative Humidity | 5% ~ 95% (non-condensing) |
| Altitude | ≤2500m |
| Protection Grade | IP20 |
| Insulation Resistance | >100MΩ @500Vdc |
| Dielectric Strength | 2kV AC, 1min |
| EMC Compliance | Level IV (fast transient, surge, ESD, magnetic field) |
| Flame Retardant | HB level (IEC 60695-11-10) |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 120mm × 120mm × 100mm (panel cutout) |
| Weight | Approx. 1.2kg |
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FAQ
ARB4 series has three models: ARB4-A1 supports 1, ARB4-A2 supports 2, and ARB4-A3 supports 3 sensors.
Single criterion ≤3.8ms, dual criterion ≤7.8ms (at 2x threshold, electromagnetic relay output).
It supports AC/DC 110V, 220V, and DC 48V, 24V with ±20% tolerance.
It includes arc protection (three criteria), arc monitoring and fault location, sensor/fiber self-test, failure protection, CT disconnection monitoring, non-electric protection, device self-test, and maintenance lock.
Modbus-RTU and IEC60870-5-103 via RS485. The same port can be configured for IRIG-B timing.
Panel cutout is 120mm × 120mm, flush mounting.
Summary
The ARB4 series arc protection device is a compact intelligent protection unit designed for space-constrained MV/LV switchgear.
Its high-performance hardware ensures fast and reliable arc detection, with millisecond trip times to effectively limit fault expansion.
Three protection criteria (arc, current, voltage) flexibly adapt to different grounding methods.
The device integrates 8 digital inputs, 5 relay outputs, and RS485 communication for easy integration into monitoring systems.
Comprehensive fault recording and event logging aid post-event analysis.
With stringent EMC certification and wide temperature operation, it is suitable for harsh environments in power, industry, and renewables, providing a cost-effective arc protection solution for feeder cabinets and similar equipment.
