An IDMT relay stands for Inverse Definite Minimum Time relay. It is a type of protective relay used in electrical power systems to detect overcurrent conditions and to protect equipment such as transformers, generators, and transmission lines from damage due to excessive current. The IDMT relay operates based on the principle that the operating time of the relay decreases as the magnitude of the fault current increases. This inverse time characteristic ensures that the relay operates faster for higher fault currents, thereby providing selective and coordinated protection in power distribution networks.
The purpose of an IDMT relay is to trip or isolate a faulty section of the electrical system when an overcurrent condition occurs. By detecting excessive currents and initiating prompt protective actions, the IDMT relay helps prevent equipment damage, reduce downtime, and maintain the reliability of the power supply. It achieves this by adjusting its trip time curve based on the ratio between the fault current and the relay’s pickup current setting, ensuring that faults are cleared quickly to minimize thermal and mechanical stresses on electrical components.
There is no widely recognized full form of “Idmtl.” It appears to be a typographical error or misunderstanding of the term “IDMT relay.” IDMT stands for Inverse Definite Minimum Time, which accurately describes the operating principle of the relay based on the inverse relationship between fault current magnitude and operating time.
A DMT relay is not a standard term in electrical relay terminology. However, if loosely interpreted, it could refer to a Distance Measuring (DM) relay used in protective relaying schemes for power transmission lines. Distance relays measure the impedance (or distance) to a fault location based on the apparent impedance seen from the relay location. This information is used to determine the fault location and trip the circuit breaker to isolate the faulted section of the transmission line.
An inverse time relay, including IDMT relays, is used primarily for protective purposes in electrical power systems. It operates by adjusting its trip time inversely proportional to the magnitude of the electrical fault. Inverse time relays are crucial for providing graded protection against overcurrent conditions, ensuring that faults are isolated swiftly and minimizing disruption to the power supply. They are widely deployed in substations, distribution networks, and industrial facilities to enhance the reliability and safety of electrical infrastructure.