Basler Electric BE1-79A – Automatic Reclosing Relay

The Basler Electric BE1-79A is a solid‑state automatic reclosing relay designed to improve service continuity on overhead distribution feeders. After a temporary fault causes the circuit breaker to trip, this relay initiates a programmed reclosing sequence, restoring power automatically if the fault has cleared.

Reclosing Sequence and Control

The BE1-79A supports multiple reclosing attempts (up to four) with independent time delays between each shot. It includes a lockout function that permanently opens the breaker after a preset number of unsuccessful reclosures, preventing repeated faults on a permanent failure. The relay can be set for either single‑shot or multi‑shot operation, with each timing interval adjustable from 0.1 to 300 seconds. A built‑in reset timer restores the relay to its initial state after a successful reclosure and a user‑defined "dead‑time" period.

• Reclosing attempts: up to 4 with independent timing

• Time delays: 0.1–300 seconds each

• Lockout count: 1–4 attempts (programmable)

• Reset timer: 1–600 seconds

• Inputs: trip initiation from overcurrent relay, manual close, and external block

• Outputs: close and lockout contacts, 5 A at 250 V AC

• Power supply: 120/240 V AC or 125/250 V DC

• LED indicators: sequence status and lockout

• Mounting: panel draw‑out case

• Operating temperature: –20 °C to +65 °C

Applications

This relay is commonly installed on overhead distribution feeders, where a majority of faults (e.g., lightning strikes, animal contacts) are temporary. It is also used in industrial power systems where automatic restoration is critical for maintaining production continuity. The BE1-79A coordinates with overcurrent relays (such as BE1‑50/51) to ensure selective tripping and reclosing.

Installation and Configuration

The relay mounts in a standard panel cutout with front‑accessible switches and dials for timing and count settings. A test mode allows verification of the reclosing sequence without actual breaker operation. All settings are made using DIP switches and trimpots, with clear labelling for each parameter.

Reliability and Compliance

Built with rugged solid‑state circuits and surge‑protection components, the BE1-79A complies with IEEE C37.90 and IEC 60255 standards. Its design ensures consistent operation in environments with high electrical noise and temperature variations.

In summary, the Basler Electric BE1‑79A reclosing relay offers dependable automatic restoration for distribution networks, reducing outage duration and improving system reliability.