الوصف
The GE part number IC3603A167A is an Isolated Alternate Source Card. This specialized electronic circuit board is a component of GE’s legacy Speedtronic Mark I and Mark II series of turbine control systems. Its primary function is to provide a secondary, isolated power source to a critical circuit, ensuring uninterrupted operation in case of a power supply failure.
Function and Key Features
This card is a key part of the system’s redundancy and reliability features. In a high-stakes environment like a power plant, a single power supply failure could lead to a catastrophic shutdown. The card addresses this by:
- Power Source Isolation: The card receives power from a separate, or alternate, source. The “isolated” part of the name indicates that this power source is electrically isolated from the main power supply. This prevents electrical faults in the main supply from affecting the critical circuit.
- Redundancy: It acts as a backup, ensuring that if the primary power supply to a key component fails, the card can provide power from the alternate source, preventing a loss of control or a forced shutdown.
- System Integration: The card is typically used to power critical circuits, such as those for a trip system, an annunciator, or a servo valve. It seamlessly integrates into the control panel’s architecture, providing a crucial layer of protection.
- Robust Design: Like all GE industrial control boards, it’s built to withstand the harsh conditions of a power plant, including vibrations, temperature fluctuations, and electromagnetic interference.
Applications
The IC3603A167A is a legacy component, so it is primarily used in power generation facilities that still operate GE’s older Mark I and Mark II turbine control systems. It is an essential component for:
- High-Reliability Circuits: It ensures the continuous operation of critical circuits where a loss of power would be unacceptable.
- Safety Systems: It provides a reliable power source for safety-critical components, such as overspeed trip systems, ensuring they remain operational at all times.