
In depth analysis of Tricon CX I/O channel and intrinsic safety module configuration
In order to meet the needs of different application scenarios, Pepperl+Fuchs provides highly compatible H-System module and terminal board solutions for various I/O cards of Tricon CX. The following will provide a detailed breakdown of the configuration details for each signal type.
1. Digital Input (DI) Solution
For the digital input card 3506X (32 channels) of Tricon CX, H-System offers a variety of isolation barrier module options.
HiC2821 and HiC2841: These two modules correspond to a single channel design and are typically used to achieve single loop integrity. They support relay output and transistor output respectively, with a safety integrity level of SIL 2. Among them, HiC2841, as a transistor output version, has a faster response speed.
HIC2822 and HIC2842: In order to pursue higher density, these two modules adopt a dual channel design. This means that two intrinsic safety circuits are integrated within a width of 12.5mm, greatly saving cabinet space. They also support both relay and transistor output modes, with a safety level of SIL 2.
Matching terminal board: mainly using HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-DI16 or HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-DI32, the former supports 16 channels, and the latter expands to 32 channels through dual channel modules, perfectly matching the capacity of 3506X card.
2. Digital Output (DO) and High Level Safety Requirements
Digital output is usually used to drive actuators such as solenoid valves and alarm lights, and its safety is directly related to the reliability of emergency parking. H-System provides high-performance modules with SIL 3 certification for the 3626X (32 channel) card of Tricon CX.
HiC2871A: This is an output module that can provide 40mA @ 12VDC driving capability and has the ability to test pulse anti-interference. In the ESD system, the controller sends small test pulses to the output circuit to detect line faults. This module can effectively resist the false triggering of the actuator by these pulses and ensure the implementation of diagnostic functions.
HiC2873 and HiC2883: The driving capability of these two modules has been increased to 45mA @ 12VDC. Among them, HiC2883 has also added Line Fault Testing (LFT) function, which can monitor circuit disconnection or short circuit faults in real time, further improving the diagnostic coverage of the system.
Safety Relay Module: For non intrinsic safety applications or scenarios that require direct driving of high-power loads, HIC5861 (Safety Relay DTS) and HIC5863 (Safety Relay ETS) provide SIL 3 level solutions. DTS may refer to diagnostic testing system related characteristics, while ETS typically refers to emergency trip system characteristics, which ensure absolute safety at the final component level.
Matching terminal board: using HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-DO16, supporting 16 channel configuration, and can achieve complete 32 point control with 3626X card.
3. Analog input (AI) and specialized solution for fire detection
Accurate acquisition of analog signals is crucial in process control. H-System provides flexible configuration for 3722X/3723X (32 channel) analog input cards.
HiC2025 series: This is a standard analog input isolation barrier that supports the HART communication protocol and can isolate and transmit 4-20mA signals from the field to the control system. The HiC2025ES version has passed more rigorous testing and reached SIL 3 level, suitable for monitoring critical process parameters.
HIC2025A: This is a special module designed specifically for fire detectors. Fire detectors, especially flame detectors, often require a larger current than ordinary transmitters when triggering an alarm (document shows I=93mA). HIC2025A can provide this special power supply characteristic to ensure that the detector can work properly in emergency fire situations. Its safety level is also SIL 2.
Matching terminal board: HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-AI16 is a standard matching terminal board, also designed with 16 channels.
4. Temperature Input (TI) Solution
Temperature is one of the most critical parameters in chemical and refining processes. The HiC2081 module provided by H-System is designed specifically for connecting thermal resistors or thermocouples, capable of accurately converting and transmitting temperature signals to the Tricon CX system. This module also reaches SIL 2 level and is used in conjunction with the HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-AI16 terminal board to ensure the safety and accuracy of the temperature monitoring circuit.
5. Analog Output (AO) Solution
For the 3809X/3809AX (16 channel) analog output card, H-System provides HiC2031 and its SIL 3 version HIC2031ES. These modules are used to control analog actuators such as control valves, and their high-precision signal output and fast response characteristics ensure the stability of process control. The matching terminal board is HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-IO16.
6. Highly integrated Universal I/O
The 3902X/3902AX (16 channel) universal card of Tricon CX represents the development direction of future I/O technology - configuring multiple signals through one type of hardware. H-System provides an extremely rich combination of modules for this purpose, allowing different functional modules to be mixed on the same terminal board (HICTB16-TRX-RAC-PL-IO16).