SIEMENS 6ES5955-3LF11: SIMATIC S5 Heavy-Duty Power Logic
The Core of S5 System Stability
The SIEMENS 6ES5955-3LF11 serves as the primary energy hub for the SIMATIC S5-135U and S5-155U racks. In the hierarchy of industrial automation, the power supply is often the most critical single point of failure. Siemens engineered the 6ES5955-3LF11 to mitigate this risk through superior component selection and redundant safety architectures. This module provides the essential 5V DC and 24V DC voltages to the backplane, ensuring that high-speed processors and communication modules function within their specified electrical tolerances.
Unlike standard consumer-grade power units, the 6ES5955-3LF11 is designed to handle the "dirty" power conditions typical of heavy industrial zones. It incorporates massive electrolytic capacitors for voltage buffering and high-frequency filtering stages that prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) from reaching the sensitive logic gates of the CPU. This level of power conditioning is what allowed the S5 series to set the industry standard for reliability over several decades.
Comprehensive Technical Specifications
The engineering profile of the 6ES5955-3LF11 is defined by its high current output and rigorous protection standards. Below are the core technical parameters based on the SIMATIC S5 hardware manual:
Specification Category Technical DetailManufacturer Siemens AG
Article Number 6ES5955-3LF11
Input Voltage 120V / 230V AC (Switchable)
Output Voltage 1 +5V DC / 10A (Backplane Logic)
Output Voltage 2 +24V DC (Peripheral Power)
Power Rating High-density current delivery for expansion racks
Cooling Type Natural Convection / Forced Air (Rack Dependent)
Protection Class IP20 (According to IEC 60529)
Key Functional Features and Protection
1. Precision Voltage Regulation and Monitoring
The 6ES5955-3LF11 utilizes a sophisticated switching regulator circuit that maintains output stability even under fluctuating load conditions. It features an integrated "Power Good" signal monitoring system. If the output voltage drops below the minimum required threshold, the module immediately signals the CPU to perform a safe data save and controlled system stop, preventing the corruption of the user program in the RAM.
2. Integrated Battery Backup Capability
To ensure the retention of volatile memory during external power loss, this PSU includes a compartment for a lithium backup battery. The circuit is designed to switch seamlessly to battery power for memory retentivity without causing a voltage dip on the bus. Version 3LF11 includes enhanced monitoring logic that provides a visual "BATT LOW" warning on the front panel well before the battery voltage reaches a critical level.
3. Galvanic Isolation and EMI Suppression
Electrical safety is paramount. The module provides complete galvanic isolation between the AC input side and the DC output side. This ensures that field-side transients or grounding faults do not propagate to the control logic. Furthermore, the 6ES5955-3LF11 complies with stringent industrial EMC directives, ensuring it neither emits nor is affected by radio frequency interference.
Installation and Engineering Note
When installing the 6ES5955-3LF11 into the S5 subrack, ensure that the input voltage selector is correctly set to match your local grid (120V vs 230V). Incorrect setting will lead to immediate fuse failure or hardware damage. Always use the original Siemens rack-mounting screws to ensure a solid mechanical and ground connection.
Installation and Maintenance Protocols
For the long-term health of your SIMATIC S5 system, the following maintenance standards for the 6ES5955-3LF11 should be strictly observed:
Thermal Clearance: Ensure that the ventilation slots on the PSU and the rack remain unobstructed. Overheating is the primary cause of shortened capacitor lifespan in power modules.
Battery Replacement: Change the lithium backup battery while the system is powered ON to avoid data loss. This should typically be done every 1 to 2 years depending on the ambient temperature.
Terminal Integrity: Periodically check the AC input terminals for oxidation or looseness, especially in high-vibration environments.
Fan Maintenance: If the PSU is used in a rack with a forced-air fan unit, ensure the filters are cleaned monthly to prevent dust buildup on the PSU's internal heat sinks.
Typical Industrial Applications
The SIEMENS 6ES5955-3LF11 is widely deployed in high-stakes industries where downtime is not an option:
Steel and Metallurgy
Powering the distributed control racks of blast furnaces and rolling mills, where electrical noise from massive motors is constant.
Petrochemical Processing
Providing reliable power for the safety-instrumented systems (SIS) that manage reactor temperatures and emergency shutdown valves.
Automotive Assembly
Supporting the central PLC racks that coordinate robotic weld lines and high-speed conveyor systems.
Reliability and Standards Compliance
The 6ES5955-3LF11 is built according to VDE 0160 and IEC standards for industrial electronic equipment. Its high Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) is a result of Siemens' commitment to using long-life electrolytic capacitors and robust semiconductor components. Even decades after its initial release, this power supply remains a cornerstone of the legacy automation market, representing the pinnacle of German industrial engineering.
