Description
UFC718AE01 HIEE300936R0101: Product Overview
The ABB UFC718AE01 HIEE300936R0101 is a critical fieldbus interface module designed for ABB’s 800xA distributed control system (DCS), a flagship platform for industrial process automation. It acts as a bridge between the DCS controller (e.g., AC 800M) and FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 field devices, enabling bidirectional data exchange for real-time monitoring and control of industrial processes.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “fieldbus gateway” in the 800xA DCS architecture, the UFC718AE01 performs three primary functions:
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Signal Conversion: Translates analog/digital signals from field devices (e.g., pressure transmitters, temperature sensors) into FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 protocol for transmission to the controller.
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Data Routing: Directs data packets between the controller and field devices, ensuring that process variables (e.g., temperature, pressure) are transmitted accurately and in real time.
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Fault Tolerance: Provides segment-level redundancy to ensure uninterrupted communication even if a segment fails, critical for mission-critical processes like power generation or chemical processing.
Core Functionality:
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FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 Compliance: Fully compliant with IEC 61158-2, supporting all standard H1 features (e.g., control-in-field, device diagnostics).
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Multi-Segment Support: Manages up to 4 independent H1 segments, each supporting 16 devices (64 total), making it suitable for large-scale applications.
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Galvanic Isolation: 1500V AC isolation between field devices and the controller prevents ground loops and voltage spikes from damaging sensitive electronics.
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Hot-Swappable Design: Allows for replacement without shutting down the system, minimizing downtime during maintenance.
Platform Benefits (800xA DCS):
The UFC718AE01 leverages ABB’s 800xA platform, which is renowned for:
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional fieldbus modules to accommodate growing operational needs.
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Reliability: Industrial-grade components and a rugged design ensure 24/7 operation in harsh environments (e.g., high temperature, vibration).
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Integration: Seamlessly integrates with ABB’s AC 800M controllers and I/O modules, reducing setup time and effort.
ABB UFC718AE01
Technical Specifications
Model Number: UFC718AE01 HIEE300936R0101
Manufacturer: ABB
Product Type: FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 Interface Module
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Fieldbus Standard: IEC 61158-2 (FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1)
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Segments Supported: 4 independent H1 segments
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Devices per Segment: 16 max (64 total)
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Communication Rate: 31.25 kbps (fixed)
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Isolation Voltage: 1500V AC (field-to-controller)
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Redundancy: Segment-level redundancy (per segment)
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Power Supply: 24V DC ±10% (dual redundant inputs)
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Power Consumption: 2.5W (typical)
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Safety Certification: SIL 2 (IEC 61508)
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Communication Ports: 8x H1 (FOUNDATION Fieldbus)
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Diagnostics: Live List Management, DTM/FDT support
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Operating Temperature: -25°C to +70°C (-13°F to 158°F)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F)
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Protection Rating: IP20 (front panel)
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Dimensions (W×H×D): 150 mm × 100 mm × 50 mm (5.91 in × 3.94 in × 1.97 in)
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Weight: 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL, ATEX Zone 2
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Seamless Fieldbus Integration:
The UFC718AE01’s compliance with FOUNDATION Fieldbus H1 ensures compatibility with a wide range of field devices, including ABB’s own sensors and actuators as well as third-party devices. This reduces the need for custom integration work, saving time and costs for engineers.
2. Fault-Tolerant Communication:
Segment-level redundancy ensures that communication continues even if a segment fails, minimizing downtime and preventing process disruptions. For example, in a chemical plant, this means that the DCS can still receive data from reactor sensors even if one segment’s cable is cut, avoiding unplanned shutdowns.
3. High Reliability in Harsh Environments:
The module’s wide operating temperature range (-25°C to +70°C) and IP20 protection rating make it suitable for use in harsh industrial environments, such as steel mills or offshore oil rigs. This reliability reduces maintenance costs and ensures continuous operation.
4. Easy Maintenance with Hot-Swap Design:
The UFC718AE01’s hot-swappable design allows technicians to replace the module without shutting down the system, minimizing downtime during maintenance. This is essential for industries like power generation, where continuous operation is required.
ABB UFC718AE01
Typical Applications
The ABB UFC718AE01 HIEE300936R0101 is widely used in industries requiring reliable fieldbus communication for process automation:
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Chemical Processing:
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Connects pressure transmitters and temperature sensors to the ABB 800xA DCS, enabling real-time monitoring of reactor conditions.
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Example: In a petrochemical refinery, the module transmits data from a pressure transmitter to the DCS, which adjusts the flow of reactants to maintain optimal reaction conditions.
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Power Generation:
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Interfaces with turbine sensors (e.g., temperature, vibration) to provide real-time data to the DCS.
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Example: In a thermal power plant, the module collects data from a turbine temperature sensor and sends it to the DCS, which adjusts the fuel flow to maintain optimal efficiency.
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Water Treatment:
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Connects pH sensors and flow meters to the DCS, enabling precise control of water quality.
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Example: In a municipal water treatment plant, the module transmits signals from a pH sensor to the DCS, which adjusts the amount of chlorine added to maintain safe drinking water.
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Oil & Gas:
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Manages smart transmitters for custody transfer metering and safety shutdown valves in offshore platforms.
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Example: On an offshore oil rig, the module transmits data from a flow transmitter to the DCS, which adjusts the flow of crude oil to maintain optimal production.
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