Methodology for the Integration and Validation of Multi-Vendor IEDs Using IEC61850 Protocol

The article presents the integration and coordination of protection and communication between multi-vendor IEDs within an electrical distribution system. The study focuses on the 22kV side of Substation Number Four (4) in Cuenca-Ecuador, incorporating SIEMENS and SCHNEIDER brand IEDs configured for overcurrent protection. Three flowcharts were developed to implement GOOSE, SV and MMS communication according to the IEC61850 standard. These diagrams guide the integration of IEDs from multiple manufactures, ensuring inter-operability and efficient communication. Communication signals were sent to a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) for centralized monitoring, with SCADA interfaces designed for a complete visualization of the data. Extensive tests were carried out using the Omicron CMC356 equipment, validating the settings and flowcharts on the IEDs. The results confirmed the successful coordination and communication between the protection devices, demonstrating the robustness and reliability of the proposed integration methodology. This study highlights the feasibility and benefits of using the IEC61850 standard for the integration of multi-vendor IEDs in the automation of modern electrical power systems.