LightweightProtectiveRelaySolutions:SimplifyingSupervisionandProtectionwithODES
- TonyZhang
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
Problem Statement / Context
In modern substations, distribution systems, and industrial control panels, engineers often face a recurring dilemma:
When only basic supervision is needed, they are forced to purchase a complete multi-function protection device.
Wiring with discrete components becomes time-consuming, error-prone, and difficult to maintain.
Voltage, current, and temperature monitoring are frequently susceptible to electromagnetic interference, resulting in nuisance alarms or unintended tripping.
These challenges directly impact system reliability, commissioning time, and lifecycle cost.
Why Conventional Approaches Fall Short？
Traditional protective relays are designed primarily for full protection schemes, rather than dedicated supervision tasks. And this brings following problems:
Over-dimensioning: Operators deploy complex devices for simple monitoring needs.
Integration complexity: Multiple standalone components increase wiring density and testing time.
Susceptibility to interference: Without advanced EMC design, transient disturbances often trigger false pickups.
Solution Approach: ODES Lightweight Protective Relay Concept
ODES defines a “lightweight protective relay” as a compact, standards-aligned solution designed to integrate supervision and basic protection functions into modular, plug-and-play devices. Focused on voltage, current, and temperature domains, these relays streamline engineering while enhancing reliability.
Core Features & Capabilities
Simplified integration: DIN-rail modular design enables rapid installation, streamlined wiring, and reduced maintenance overhead.
High EMC resilience: Four-level electromagnetic compatibility design ensures strong immunity to disturbances, enabling stable operation under harsh grid conditions.
Flexible logic: Configurable pickup thresholds, dropout delays, and sequence interlocking prevent transient-induced misoperation and mechanical stress.
Reliability by design: Built-in blocking logic improves system consistency, availability, and long-term reliability.
Engineering Considerations / Best Practices
When deploying lightweight relays, engineers should:
Set pickup and dropout thresholds in accordance with IEC 60255 guidance.
Apply appropriate dropout delays (≈300 ms) to ensure transient ride-through.
Validate integration in FAT/SAT stages with representative disturbances to confirm immunity and coordination.
For over two decades, ODES has advanced auxiliary components for power-system secondary circuits. The lightweight protective relay portfolio exemplifies this philosophy: standardized in design, adaptable in application, and proven in delivery.
Call to Action
To learn more about ODES lightweight protective relay solutions—or to request technical datasheets, wiring diagrams, or evaluation samples—please contact us:
Email: tonyzhang@odes.com.cn
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