Overview

The ARB6 series arc protection device integrates multiple functions such as protection, measurement, monitoring, control, communication, fault recording, and event recording.
It monitors arc signals, protection current, or voltage in real time, providing arc protection for 0.4kV~35kV medium and low voltage distribution systems.
The device adopts an integrated hardware design, incorporating 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. It is widely used in industries such as power, water conservancy, transportation, industry, mining, new energy, ships, and buildings.

Highlight

High-Performance Hardware

  • 550MHz CPU
  • 16-bit ADC, 48 samp/cycle
  • 512KB Flash + 4MB NorFlash
  • 512KB SRAM + parallel proc

Comprehensive Protection

  • Arc single criterion
  • Arc+current dual criterion
  • Arc+voltage dual criterion
  • Failure protection
  • CT disconnection monitor
  • Non-electric protection
  • Device self-test

Rich Interfaces

  • 12 current + 3 voltage ch
  • Up to 30 arc sensors
  • 22 DI + 16 DO (4 fast)
  • 2 RS485 + 3 Ethernet (opt)
  • USB + GPS sync

High Reliability

  • EMC level IV certified
  • Temp -10℃~+55℃
  • Flame retardant HB
  • Real-time self-test
  • Fault recording (16 records)
  • Fast trip ≤3.8ms

Function

Arc ProtectionThree criteria: arc only, arc+current, arc+zero-sequence voltage. Configurable delay and mapping to trip relays.
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 MonitoringDetects open CT circuits with configurable current thresholds and delay.
Non-Electric Protection External input can trigger protection with configurable delay and output mapping.
Device Self-Test Internal fault or power loss triggers alarm with dedicated output.
Maintenance LockLocks tripping or communication via external input during maintenance.
Fault RecordingUp to 16 records, each with 4 segments (pre-fault 2 cycles, post-fault 10 cycles).

Specification

ParameterValue
Power SupplyAC/DC 110V, 220V; DC 48V, 24V ( tolerance ±20%)
Rated Current (In)5A / 1A AC
Rated Voltage (Un)100V / 100/√3V AC
Frequency50Hz / 60Hz (40~70Hz)
Current Measurement Range0.04In ~ 20In
Voltage Measurement Range0.1V ~ 120V
AccuracyCurrent/Voltage: ±1%
Arc Protection Trip TimeSingle criterion: ≤3.8ms (2x threshold)
Dual criterion: ≤7.8ms (2x threshold & 2x current set)
Digital Inputs5 (standard) / 22 (optional); AC/DC 220V, 110V, 48V, 24V
Digital Outputs16 (14 NO + 2 NC); 4 fast outputs (≤3.8ms)
Communication2×RS485 (Modbus, IEC103), 3×Ethernet (opt), USB, IRIG-B
Arc Sensor InputsUp to 30 (depending on model)
Operating Temperature-10℃ ~ +55℃
Storage Temperature-25℃ ~ +70℃
Relative Humidity5% ~ 95% (non-condensing)
Altitude≤2500m
Protection GradeIP40 (front panel)
Insulation Resistance>100MΩ @500Vdc
Dielectric Strength2kV AC, 1min
EMC ComplianceLevel IV (fast transient, surge, ESD, magnetic field)
Flame RetardantHB level (GB/T 5169.16)
Dimensions (W×H×D)260mm × 160mm × 140mm (panel cutout)
WeightApprox. 3.5kg

FAQ

How is the ARB6 powered? What is the power supply range?

The device supports AC/DC 110V, 220V, and DC 48V, 24V with ±20% tolerance.

What is the maximum number of arc sensors that can be connected?

Depending on the model: ARB6-A6 supports 6, ARB6-A12 supports 12, ARB6-A18 supports 18, ARB6-A24 supports 24, and ARB6-A30 supports 30.

How fast is the arc protection trip time?

Single criterion ≤3.8ms, dual criterion ≤7.8ms (at 2x threshold, electromagnetic relay output).

How to set protection parameters and soft straps?

Enter the “Para.” and “Soft Strap” menus via the front panel, input password (default 0008) to modify. Remote setting via communication is also supported.

Which communication protocols are supported?

Modbus-RTU, IEC60870-5-103, IEC101 (via RS485), and TCP Modbus, TCP IEC103 (via Ethernet).

What is the panel cutout size for installation?

Panel cutout is 260mm × 160mm, flush mounting.

Summary

The ARB6 series arc protection device is an intelligent unit integrating protection, measurement, control, and communication, designed for 0.4kV~35kV medium and low voltage distribution systems. Its high-performance hardware platform ensures fast and reliable arc detection, with millisecond trip times to effectively limit fault expansion. Multiple protection criteria (arc, current, voltage) flexibly adapt to different grounding methods, enhancing selectivity. Rich interfaces (up to 30 arc sensors, 22 DI, 16 DO) meet complex switchgear monitoring needs. The device features comprehensive self-test and fault recording capabilities, supports multiple communication protocols, and is easy to integrate into existing monitoring systems. With stringent EMC certification and wide temperature operation, the ARB6 series is suitable for harsh environments in power, industry, and renewables, providing a complete arc protection solution for distribution systems.

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Customer Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

PD Monitoring

We’ve used Acrel products on several projects, and they’ve been reliable from day one. Installation was straightforward, and the support team was always quick to answer our questions.

Saudi Arabia

Mohamed Elshazly

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Tendering Director

Power Monitoring Solution

We were looking for a cost-effective metering solution, and Acrel was a great fit. The products work well, communication is stable, and delivery was on schedule.

United Arab Emirates

Asad Janjua

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Electrical Engineer

Temperature Monitoring

The wireless temperature monitoring system has been running smoothly since commissioning. It helps us identify potential issues early and reduces the need for routine inspections.

Saudi Arabia

Abbas Matar

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Project Manager

Long-Term Partnership

We’ve been working with Acrel for several years now. The products are dependable, reasonably priced, and the overall experience has always been positive.

Philippines

Arnold Bagabaldo

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CEO

Technical Support

What we appreciated most was the technical support. The Acrel team helped us choose the right products and stayed involved until the project was completed.

Canada

David Dudley

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System Integration Manager

SCADA Integration

The products integrated easily with our existing SCADA platform. Everything worked as expected, and commissioning was completed without any major issues.

Russia

Alexey Petrov

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Sales manager