Description
Product Overview
The GE IS230TNPAH2A is a specialized communication and power distribution module designed for GE’s Mark VI and Mark VIe gas/steam turbine control systems. This module acts as a critical node within the Turbine Control Unit (TCU), functioning as a Terminal Power Supply and Network Adapter. Its primary role is to provide conditioned power to a local bank of I/O terminal boards and to serve as a communication gateway between these I/O modules and the central turbine controller (the <P> processor). The GE IS230TNPAH2A is essential for the distributed I/O architecture of the Mark VIe system, ensuring reliable data acquisition from sensors and precise command delivery to actuators. By managing both power and data for a cluster of terminals, the GE IS230TNPAH2A enhances system modularity, simplifies wiring, and improves overall reliability. In the high-stakes environment of turbine control, the consistent performance of the GE IS230TNPAH2A is vital for maintaining operational stability and executing protective actions.
Product Parameters and Specifications
-
Manufacturer: GE (General Electric), part of the Mark VIe Speedtronic™ series.
-
Module Type: Terminal Power Supply / Network Adapter.
-
Compatible System: GE Mark VIe Turbine Control System.
-
Primary Functions:
-
Power Supply: Converts the system’s DC control voltage (e.g., 125V DC) to isolated, lower-voltage DC power (e.g., +/-15V, +5V, +24V) required by the adjacent I/O terminal boards (like TROA, TREG, TCEX, etc.).
-
Communication Gateway: Translates signals between the proprietary high-speed VME bus (or PCI bus in Mark VIe) of the central controller and the localized serial communication network (often a proprietary GE TDIO bus) that connects to a group of I/O terminals.
-
Mounting: Installs directly into a dedicated slot within the Mark VIe I/O pack or terminal board assembly.
-
-
Input Voltage: Typically designed for a 125 V DC input from the turbine’s control power system.
-
Communication Ports: Features fiber-optic or high-speed electrical serial ports to communicate with the controller and the connected I/O terminals.
-
Diagnostics: Includes self-diagnostics and status monitoring for power supply health and communication integrity, reporting faults back to the main controller.
-
Part Number Suffix: The H2A suffix indicates a specific hardware revision with defined electrical and firmware characteristics.
Advantages and Key Features
-
Integrated Power and Data Hub: The GE IS230TNPAH2A consolidates two critical functions—power distribution and communication bridging—into one module, reducing complexity, points of failure, and space requirements within the I/O pack.
-
Enhanced System Reliability: By providing clean, isolated power to sensitive I/O circuits, it protects against electrical noise and ground loops that could cause erroneous readings or control actions. Its robust design is tailored for the 24/7 operation of critical machinery.
-
Enables Distributed I/O Architecture: This module is the cornerstone of the Mark VIe’s distributed I/O design, allowing I/O terminals to be located in close proximity to field devices (like on the turbine skid) while maintaining a high-integrity link to the central controller, reducing long wire runs.
-
Critical Diagnostics: It continuously monitors its own power output and communication links. A failure in the GE IS230TNPAH2A will be promptly reported to the control system, allowing for quick identification and remediation, which is crucial for minimizing turbine downtime.
-
Proven in Critical Service: As a core component in thousands of GE turbine installations worldwide, this module has a proven track record of reliability in extreme environments, from desert power plants to offshore platforms.
Application Case Studies
-
Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP): In a GE 7FA gas turbine, the GE IS230TNPAH2A modules are deployed in I/O packs dedicated to critical subsystems. One module might serve the fuel gas skid I/O, powering terminals that read valve positions and pressure transmitters, while another serves the combustion monitoring system, ensuring reliable data for temperature control and emissions management.
-
Mechanical Drive Turbine for Compression: At a natural gas pipeline compressor station, the turbine control system must operate flawlessly. The GE IS230TNPAH2A modules facilitate reliable reading of compressor suction/discharge pressures and temperatures, enabling anti-surge control and performance optimization.
-
Industrial Cogeneration Turbine: In a refinery, a turbine drives a generator and provides process steam. Here, GE IS230TNPAH2A modules ensure the control system receives accurate data from steam pressure and temperature sensors, allowing for precise control of the extraction valves to balance electrical and thermal loads.
Comparison with Competing Products
| Feature | GE IS230TNPAH2A (for GE Mark VIe) | Woodward NetCon Controller I/O Network | Siemens T3000 / S7-400H with ET200M |
|---|---|---|---|
| System Architecture | Proprietary power/network adapter for a distributed, turbine-specific I/O system. | Integrated controller with remote I/O over standard networks (e.g., CAN, Ethernet). | Standard DCS/PLC architecture using PROFIBUS DP or PROFINET for distributed I/O. |
| I/O Connection | Connects to proprietary GE terminal boards (TROA, TREG, etc.) via a dedicated serial bus. | Connects to Woodward’s I/O blocks via a proprietary or standard network. | Connects to standard Siemens ET200M remote I/O stations via fieldbus. |
| Function Integration | Combines power supply and communication gateway in one module. | Power supplies are often separate; communication is handled by the controller network interface. | Power supply and communication are separate, modular functions. |
| Key Differentiator | A system-specific component optimized for high-reliability, high-speed turbine I/O within a closed ecosystem. | Focus on flexibility and integration of control, sequencing, and protection in one hardware platform. | Leverages standard, widely available industrial automation components for scalability and ease of support. |
| Replacement Paradigm | Procured as a spare part for direct, like-for-like replacement in an existing GE turbine system. | Modules can be selected from a range based on I/O count and network type. | I/O and communication modules are selected from standard catalogs. |
Selection Suggestions and Important Notes
-
Selection Suggestion:
-
The GE IS230TNPAH2A is exclusively selected as a direct replacement spare part for maintaining or repairing an existing GE Mark VIe turbine control system. It is not chosen for new, non-GE designs.
-
Facilities should inventory this module as a critical spare, especially if the turbine’s redundancy design does not encompass the entire I/O pack containing the GE IS230TNPAH2A.
-
Selection is based solely on matching the exact part number from the system’s Bill of Materials (BOM) or the label on the failed unit.
-
-
Important Notes:
-
Exact Part Number Match is Crucial: The complete part number IS230TNPAH2A must be matched. Variations in the suffix (e.g., H1A, H2A) indicate different revisions that may not be interchangeable due to firmware or hardware changes.
-
Handling and ESD: Treat as sensitive electronic equipment. Use proper ESD precautions during handling and storage.
-
System Implications: Replacing a GE IS230TNPAH2A typically requires taking the associated I/O pack offline, which may affect a section of turbine control. This often necessitates a unit shutdown or operation at reduced load. Detailed plant procedures and safety permits (LOTO) are mandatory.
-
Configuration and Firmware: The new module may require a specific firmware load to be compatible with the rest of the Mark VIe system. This information should be obtained from GE or the system’s most recent configuration backup.
-
Source Authenticity: Due to the critical nature of turbine control, always source this module from authorized GE channels or highly reputable surplus suppliers who can provide traceability and testing certification. Counterfeit parts pose a severe safety and reliability risk.
-

ABB 3HAC026254-001/11
3HAC026253-001 ABB PLC
ABB DSQC643
ABB 3HAC024488-001/01 DCS
3ASC25H705/Z7 ABB


Reviews
There are no reviews yet.