IC3600EPSB1 - 100 Volt Regulator Card

SPECIFICATIONS:

Part No: IC3600EPSB1
Manufacturer: General Electric
Product Type: 100 Volt Regulator Card
Series: Mark I & II
Input Signals: 0–10 VDC
Operating Voltage: 18-56 VDC
Operating temperature: 0 to 60 ºC
Power Supply Voltage: 24 V dc
Block to Block Isolation: 1500 Volts
Supply Voltage Range: 18-56 VDC
Block Power: 24/48 Volts DC
Output response time: 1.0 msec
Block to Block Isolation: 1500V
Size: 8.83 (22.44cm) x 3.50 (8.89cm) x 3.94
Weight: 0.45 kg
Availability: In Stock
Country of Origin: USA

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION:

IC3600EPSB1 is a 100 Volt Regulator Card manufactured and designed by General Electric as part of the Mark II Series used in GE Speedtronic Control Systems. A 100 Voltage Regulator Card is an essential electronic component used in various industrial, automotive, and power generation systems to ensure a stable and consistent output voltage. It plays a critical role in regulating voltage levels by maintaining a constant output, regardless of variations in the input voltage or changes in load conditions. This regulation is vital for preventing equipment damage and ensuring the efficient and safe operation of connected devices.

FUNCTIONS OF 100 VOLT REGULATOR CARD:

Voltage Regulation: The primary function of a 100 Volt Regulator Card is to maintain a steady 100V output regardless of variations in input voltage or load conditions. Voltage fluctuations can occur due to several factors, such as changes in the power supply, load demand, or environmental conditions. Without regulation, these fluctuations could lead to instability, malfunction, or even damage to the connected equipment.

• Linear Regulators: These use a voltage reference and a feedback loop to adjust the output voltage. They are simple but may not be as efficient for large voltage differences.
• Switching Regulators: More efficient than linear regulators, these regulate voltage by rapidly switching on and off, using inductors or capacitors to smooth the output.

Feedback Control Loop: The card typically incorporates a feedback control loop to compare the actual output voltage with the desired setpoint (100V in this case). If the output deviates from the setpoint, the control loop generates an error signal that adjusts the regulator’s output. This ensures that any deviations from the target voltage are corrected swiftly, providing precise regulation.

• Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) Control: Many regulator cards use a PID control loop, which continuously calculates the difference between the setpoint and actual output, adjusting the system in real-time to eliminate errors.

Overvoltage and Undervoltage Protection: Regulator cards are often equipped with protection mechanisms to ensure safety in case of abnormal operating conditions. This includes overvoltage (when the input voltage spikes above the desired level) and undervoltage (when the input drops too low).

• Overvoltage Protection (OVP): If the voltage exceeds the set threshold, the card will either shut down or engage protective circuitry to prevent equipment damage.
• Undervoltage Protection (UVP): The card ensures that the output voltage does not drop below a critical level that could compromise system performance or cause malfunctions.

Current Limiting and Overcurrent Protection: Apart from regulating voltage, these cards also monitor the current flowing through the system. If the current exceeds safe limits, the card can reduce the voltage or shut down the system to prevent overheating or equipment failure.

• Current Limiting: Prevents excessive current draw, which can damage sensitive electronic components.
• Overcurrent Protection (OCP): If a fault occurs that causes a sudden surge in current, the regulator can isolate the fault and protect the system from damage.

Electrical Isolation: In industrial systems, different parts of the equipment may operate at different voltages or reference points. The 100 Volt Regulator Card provides isolation between the control system and the power system. This isolation helps prevent interference and ensures that faults in one part of the system do not affect other sections.

• Galvanic Isolation: This ensures there is no direct electrical connection between different parts of the system, which is crucial for protecting control circuits from high voltage spikes or noise.

Load Regulation: The regulator card ensures that the output voltage remains stable even as the load changes. This is important in dynamic environments like power generation or automation, where the power demand can fluctuate rapidly.

• Line Regulation: The card compensates for changes in input voltage to ensure the output remains stable.
• Load Regulation: It adjusts the output voltage to remain constant, even when the load changes.

Heat Management: Regulation, especially in high-power systems, can generate heat. Therefore, many regulator cards include thermal management features, such as heat sinks or even active cooling components like fans, to prevent overheating.

• Thermal Shutdown: If the card detects excessive heat, it may trigger a shutdown to prevent damage.

TYPICAL USE CASES OF A 100-VOLT REGULATOR CARD:

Turbine Control Systems: In power plants, turbines generate electricity through the rotation of a shaft. The excitation system in these turbines requires precise voltage control to maintain the magnetic field strength necessary for efficient power generation. A 100 Volt Regulator Card ensures the exciter receives a stable voltage to maintain the generator’s output within optimal parameters.

• Exciter Voltage Control: The regulator card stabilizes the voltage supplied to the exciter, controlling the magnetic field and ultimately the output of the generator.

Power Distribution Systems: In industrial environments, power distribution often involves long cable runs and large loads, which can result in voltage drops or spikes. A 100 Volt Regulator Card helps maintain stable voltage levels across these distribution networks to ensure that all connected equipment operates reliably.

• Voltage Stabilization in Grids: By compensating for losses and fluctuations in long distribution lines, these cards ensure that end devices receive consistent power.

Process Control and Automation: In automated systems found in factories or plants, many control units, sensors, and actuators rely on stable voltage to function correctly. Voltage instability could result in incorrect sensor readings or actuator movements, potentially causing errors in the production process. A 100 Volt Regulator Card ensures all control systems operate within the required voltage range.

• PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) Systems: In complex automation setups, these cards ensure that PLCs receive consistent voltage, preventing malfunctions.

Communications Systems: Voltage regulation is also crucial in communication systems, especially in industries where reliability is paramount, such as oil & gas, mining, or utilities. A 100 Volt Regulator Card ensures the consistent operation of transmitters, receivers, and network components that rely on stable power for uninterrupted communication.

WOC has the largest stock of OEM replacement parts for GE Speedtronic Gas Turbine Control Systems. We can also repair your faulty boards and supply unused and rebuilt boards backed up with a warranty. Our team of experts is available round the clock to support your OEM needs. Our team of experts at WOC is happy to assist you with any of your automation requirements. For pricing and availability on parts and repairs, kindly contact our team by phone or email.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is a Voltage Regulator Card?

A Voltage Regulator Card is an essential electronic component that maintains a stable output voltage despite variations in input voltage or load conditions. It protects sensitive equipment by ensuring a consistent power supply, which is critical for reliable operation in various applications, such as industrial automation and power generation.

What are the different types of Voltage Regulator Cards?

There are two primary types of Voltage Regulator Cards: linear and switching. Linear regulators provide a steady output by dissipating excess voltage as heat, making them simpler but less efficient. In contrast, switching regulators use high-frequency switching to achieve greater efficiency, especially in high-power applications, by converting input voltage to the desired output with minimal heat loss.

What is the difference between a linear and a switching regulator?

Linear regulators provide stable output voltage with lower noise levels but are less efficient, particularly with larger voltage differences. In contrast, switching regulators convert voltage using high-frequency switching, making them more efficient and suitable for applications requiring higher power and minimal heat generation.