WOODWARD 8440-2253

The Woodward 8440-2253 is a specific part number that identifies an easYgen-1600 controller. This is a compact, Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) controller within Woodward’s easYgen-1000 series, designed for single-generator set applications.

WOODWARD : easYgen-1600 AMF Genset Controller

The Woodward 8440-2253 easYgen-1600 is a capable control unit from Woodward’s easYgen-1000 series. It’s built for robust and efficient management of individual generator sets in applications requiring automatic transfer between utility power and generator power.

Product Overview

• Product Type: Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) Genset Controller
• Manufacturer: Woodward
• Series: easYgen-1000 Series (specifically the easYgen-1600 variant)
• Function: The easYgen-1600’s primary role is to monitor the utility (mains) power. If a power outage or significant deviation (like under/over voltage or frequency) occurs, it automatically starts the generator, transfers the load to the generator, and then, upon the return of stable mains power, facilitates the transfer back to the utility and shuts down the generator. It also provides comprehensive control and protection for the genset itself.
• Key Features:
  • Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) Function: This core feature enables automatic detection of mains power status and control of the genset in response to utility failures.
  • LCD Display: Features a clear Liquid Crystal Display for local monitoring, status indication, and configuration.
  • On-board I/Os: Provides an adequate number of configurable inputs and outputs for connecting engine sensors (e.g., temperature, pressure, fuel level) and controlling actuators (e.g., fuel solenoid, starter).
  • Electronic Engine Support: Includes a CAN bus (J1939) interface for direct communication with electronic engine ECUs (Electronic Control Units) from various manufacturers (such as Bosch, Cummins, John Deere, MTU, Perkins, Scania, Volvo, and Woodward). This allows for monitoring and control of engine parameters.
  • Comprehensive Protection: Offers extensive engine, generator, and utility (mains) protection functions, including over/under voltage, over/under frequency, loss of phase, phase sequence, over and reverse power, and overcurrent.
  • Power Metering: Capable of measuring and displaying 3-phase voltage, current, power parameters, and frequency for both the generator and mains supply.
  • Communication Ports: Typically equipped with standard industrial connectivity options like CAN J1939, RS-485, and USB, allowing for diagnostics, configuration, and remote communication.
  • Event Log and Real-Time Clock: Stores an event log (up to 50 events) with a real-time clock for diagnostics, troubleshooting, and maintenance tracking.
  • Maintenance Scheduler: Features for tracking operating hours, starts, and setting maintenance reminders.
  • Switchable Parameter Sets: Can store multiple parameter sets for different AC system windings, rated voltage, frequency, current, power, and speed, providing flexibility for diverse genset applications.
  • Configuration Flexibility: Can be configured from a computer via USB or directly from the front panel with password protection.
  • Multilingual Support: Often includes multilingual capability, selectable on-site.

Detailed Description

The easYgen-1600 (8440-2253) is a robust controller for single-unit generator applications where Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) functionality is required. It balances a comprehensive feature set with a compact design, making it a popular choice for OEM genset packagers. It offers a higher level of functionality than the more basic easYgen-400/600 models, particularly with its detailed mains monitoring and transfer logic.

Applications

The Woodward 8440-2253 easYgen-1600 is commonly used in single-generator set applications requiring automatic mains failure and comprehensive control, such as:

• Standby Power Systems: Managing gensets that provide emergency backup power for commercial buildings, small industrial sites, or other facilities where automatic power transfer is crucial.
• Prime Power Applications with Auto Changeover: In locations with an unreliable grid, it can manage the genset as the primary power source while being ready to switch to or from the grid.
• Rental Power: Flexible control for mobile generator sets used in various standby or prime power scenarios.
• Pumping Units: Can be adapted for engine-driven pumping units for control and indication, with the option to inhibit relays if only monitoring and alarming are needed.

Obsolescence and Replacement Options

It’s important to be aware of the current status of the 8440-2253:

• Obsolescence: The easYgen-1000 series, including the 8440-2253 (easYgen-1600), is an older product line within Woodward’s portfolio. While specific official “End-of-Life” (EOL) notifications for every single part number might not be widely public, this series has largely been superseded by newer models with enhanced features, updated components, and improved connectivity. As of July 2025, availability and direct support for such models are becoming increasingly limited.
• No Direct Substitute: There is generally no direct, one-for-one substitute with the exact same form factor and identical features for older, specific part numbers like the easYgen-1600.
• Recommended Replacements: Woodward continually introduces more advanced and feature-rich controllers. The likely modern equivalents or next-generation controllers for similar single-genset AMF applications would be found within the easYgen-1000 series (newer variants like easYgen-1800 or newer generations) or the easYgen-3000XT series. These newer controllers typically offer:
  • Improved processing power and memory for more complex control algorithms.
  • Enhanced communication options, including more robust Ethernet capabilities and expanded USB functionality.
  • More advanced diagnostic and protection features.
  • Updated display interfaces and potentially more user-friendly configuration tools with modern software.