Description
IC670ALG230: Product Overview
The GE IC670ALG230 is an 8-point analog current source input module from GE’s Field Control series, a legacy platform renowned for its modularity and reliability in industrial automation. As part of the Field Control ecosystem, it acts as a “signal acquisition gateway” between field devices (e.g., pressure transmitters, temperature sensors) and the VMEbus controller, enabling precise measurement of analog current signals—critical for maintaining process stability and efficiency.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “field input interface” in Field Control architectures, the IC670ALG230 performs two primary functions:
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Signal Acquisition: Receives 0-20mA/4-20mA current signals from field devices (e.g., a pressure transmitter measuring pipeline pressure) and converts them into digital signals via a 12-bit ADC.
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Signal Transmission: Sends digitized signals to the VMEbus controller for real-time analysis (e.g., adjusting valve openings to maintain pressure setpoints) and stores historical data for trend analysis.
Core Functionality:
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Configurable Input Ranges: Supports 0-20mA and 4-20mA current inputs (software-selectable per channel), making it adaptable to diverse field devices.
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High Precision: 12-bit digital resolution ensures accurate signal conversion (error < ±0.1% full-scale), critical for process control applications where small deviations can impact product quality.
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Galvanic Isolation: Optocouplers isolate field devices from the controller, protecting sensitive electronics from voltage spikes and electromagnetic interference (EMI) in harsh industrial environments.
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Modular Design: Fits into standard Field Control I/O racks, enabling easy expansion or replacement. The hot-swappable design minimizes downtime during maintenance.
Platform Benefits (Field Control Series):
The IC670ALG230 inherits the Field Control platform’s strengths, including:
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Reliability: The Field Control system is the industry standard for industrial automation, with a proven track record of 24/7 operation in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities worldwide.
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Legacy Compatibility: The module is designed to work with existing Field Control components (e.g., I/O racks, controllers), reducing the cost of system upgrades.
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Scalability: Supports expansion with additional I/O modules (e.g., digital inputs, analog outputs) to accommodate growing system demands.
IC670ALG230
Technical Specifications
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Model Number: IC670ALG230 (Variant of Field Control Series)
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Manufacturer: GE (General Electric)
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Product Type: Analog Current Source Input Module
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Series: Field Control (Industrial Automation)
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Input Channels: 8 single-ended (0-20mA/4-20mA configurable)
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Current Range: 0-20mA (default), 4-20mA (configurable via software)
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Resolution: 12-bit digital resolution (typical)
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Isolation: Channel-to-channel and channel-to-logic isolation (optocouplers, 1500 V AC)
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Response Time: <1 ms (typical)
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Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C (industrial-grade)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Weight: ~0.26 kg (0.57 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from GE industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Reliable Signal Acquisition:
The IC670ALG230’s 12-bit resolution and galvanic isolation ensure accurate measurement of analog current signals, even in electrically noisy environments. For example, in a power plant, the module can reliably measure the current output from a turbine speed sensor, enabling the controller to adjust fuel flow and maintain optimal turbine speed.
2. Flexible Configuration:
The ability to configure each channel for 0-20mA or 4-20mA inputs allows engineers to customize the module’s functionality for different field devices, reducing the need for additional signal conditioning hardware. This flexibility saves time and money during installation.
3. Rugged Industrial Design:
The module’s operating temperature range (-20°C to +60°C) and compact form factor make it suitable for harsh industrial environments. Its DIN rail mounting option simplifies installation in crowded control cabinets, reducing setup time and effort.
4. Easy Integration:
Compatibility with GE Fanuc Field Control systems ensures seamless integration with existing VMEbus architectures. This minimizes downtime and effort during upgrades, allowing facilities to enhance system capabilities without replacing entire infrastructures.
IC670ALG230
Typical Applications
The GE IC670ALG230 is widely used in industrial automation systems for:
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Power Generation:
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Monitors current signals from turbine speed sensors, pressure transmitters, and temperature sensors to maintain stable power output.
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Manufacturing:
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Measures current signals from process sensors (e.g., flow meters, level sensors) to control assembly line operations.
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Petrochemical Industry:
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Acquires current signals from refinery equipment (e.g., distillation column sensors, pump monitors) to ensure safe and efficient operation.
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Water Treatment:
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Monitors current signals from water quality sensors (e.g., pH meters, turbidity sensors) to maintain proper water quality.
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