Model Number: T8312-4Manufacturer: ICS TriplexProduct Type: Trusted TMR Expander Interface Adapter UnitDimensions: 16cm × 16cm × 12cmWeight: 0.8 kgConnector Type: 4 x 12-pin ODU connectors, 96-way C-type connectorNumber of Expander Connections: 4 chassisMounting: Clips onto Controller Chassis rear connectorsEnclosure: Metal enclosureEMC Protection: Fully shielded designLocking Mechanism: Locking connectors for increased reliabilityRelease Mechanism: Release button for disconnectionAddressing Range: Expander chassis addresses 2 through 5Processor Chassis Address: Virtual address 1Compatibility: Trusted Expander Interface ModulesOperating Environment: Industrial gradeCertification: Designed for SIL 3 applications per IEC 61508Origin: United StatesHS Code: 85389091
ICS TRIPLEX T8312 – 4
Core Features & Customer Value
System Scalability and Expansion: The T8312-4 adapter unit enables the connection of up to four expander chassis to a single controller chassis, providing significant system expansion capabilities without compromising the triple modular redundant architecture. For system designers, this means the ability to scale I/O capacity and functionality as process requirements evolve, protecting the initial investment in the Trusted TMR platform. The modular expansion approach allows for gradual system growth, eliminating the need for complete system replacement when additional I/O points or functionality are required. The clear addressing scheme (chassis addresses 2 through 5) simplifies system configuration and troubleshooting, reducing engineering time during both initial deployment and future modifications.Enhanced Reliability Through Redundant Design: The adapter unit maintains the fault-tolerant principles of the Trusted TMR system by providing redundant communication paths between the controller and expander chassis. For plant engineers, this design ensures that communication failures between chassis are automatically detected and isolated, preventing single points of failure from affecting overall system operation. The triple modular redundant architecture continues to operate even if one or more communication channels experience faults, maintaining system availability for critical safety functions. This reliability is particularly important in safety instrumented systems where unplanned downtime could result in hazardous conditions or production losses.Robust Industrial Construction: The metal enclosure and fully shielded design provide protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy industrial environments. For maintenance personnel, the locking connectors prevent accidental disconnection due to vibration or accidental contact, reducing the risk of unplanned system interruptions. The release button mechanism allows for safe disconnection when required for maintenance or system modifications, without requiring special tools or extensive downtime. The compact dimensions (16cm × 16cm × 12cm) and lightweight design (0.8 kg) facilitate easy installation in control panels with limited space, while the industrial-grade construction ensures long-term reliability in harsh operating conditions.Simplified System Integration: The adapter unit’s plug-and-play design simplifies system integration by providing standardized connections between controller and expander chassis. For system integrators, this reduces installation time and complexity compared to custom wiring solutions, while ensuring proper signal integrity and electrical isolation between chassis. The clear labeling of connectors and corresponding chassis addresses eliminates configuration errors during system commissioning, reducing the risk of miswiring that could lead to system faults or performance issues. The compatibility with existing Trusted TMR components ensures seamless integration into both new installations and system upgrades, providing flexibility for plant modernization projects.
ICS TRIPLEX T8312 – 4
Typical Applications
The ICS Triplex T8312-4 is primarily deployed in safety instrumented systems (SIS) within the oil and gas industry, where system scalability and reliability are critical requirements. In offshore production platforms, the adapter unit is used to connect emergency shutdown (ESD) system controller chassis to multiple expander chassis located throughout the platform. This configuration allows for distributed I/O points that monitor process parameters such as pressure, temperature, and flow rates from various process areas, while maintaining centralized control logic execution in the main controller chassis. The ability to expand the system to four additional chassis provides the I/O capacity needed for comprehensive process monitoring and control across large offshore facilities.In refinery applications, the T8312-4 is used in fire and gas detection systems where multiple expander chassis are required to accommodate the extensive network of gas detectors, flame detectors, and smoke detectors distributed throughout the facility. The adapter unit enables the connection of expander chassis located in different process areas or equipment rooms, providing the necessary I/O density for comprehensive fire and gas monitoring while maintaining the integrity of the triple modular redundant architecture. The fully shielded design ensures reliable operation in electrically noisy refinery environments, where electromagnetic interference from large motors, transformers, and other electrical equipment could otherwise affect system performance.For power generation applications, particularly in combined-cycle power plants, the adapter unit is used in burner management systems (BMS) that require multiple expander chassis to accommodate the extensive I/O requirements for monitoring and controlling multiple burners, fuel systems, and combustion air systems. The T8312-4 allows for the connection of expander chassis located near the combustion equipment, reducing wiring distances and improving signal integrity for critical safety functions. The addressing scheme ensures that each expander chassis is properly identified in the system configuration, enabling accurate diagnostics and troubleshooting during system operation and maintenance activities.
