Description
Product Overview
The Woodward 9905-003 is the base version of the 2301A series electronic load sharing and speed control module, designed for industrial prime movers (e.g., diesel engines, gas turbines, steam turbines, generators). It serves as a critical component in parallel power generation systems, enabling precise speed regulation and seamless load distribution across multiple generator sets.
As part of Woodward’s 2301A ecosystem, the 9905-003 is widely used in standard industrial environments (e.g., power plants, marine vessels, industrial cogeneration facilities) where stable power output and efficient load management are required. It is the predecessor to the 9905-003-L (Revision L), which adds extended temperature range and enhanced environmental resilience for extreme conditions.
The 9905-003’s primary role is to maintain constant speed (isochronous mode) or adjust speed based on load (droop mode) while distributing electrical load evenly across paralleled generators—ensuring optimal performance, reducing equipment wear, and complying with grid frequency requirements.
WOODWARD 9905-020P
Key Technical Specifications
The 9905-003’s technical parameters align with Woodward’s 2301A series base model, tailored for standard industrial environments (insights from Woodward documentation and supplier listings):
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Input Voltage: 10-40 Vdc (nominal 24 Vdc) – compatible with global industrial power systems.
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Control Modes:
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Isochronous Mode: Maintains constant prime mover speed (±0.1% tolerance) for standalone/isolated bus operation.
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Droop Mode: Adjusts speed based on load (adjustable droop percentage, 0–10%) for parallel operation.
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Actuator Compatibility: Works with Woodward proportional actuators (e.g., EG-3P) for fuel/steam valve positioning.
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Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to +185°F) – standard range for indoor/protected outdoor use.
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Certifications: CE, UL, CSA – compliant with international industrial safety standards.
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Dimensions: Compact form factor (~280 mm × 210 mm × 90 mm) – fits standard industrial cabinets.
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Weight: ~4.0 kg (8.8 lbs) – lightweight for easy handling.
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Protection Ratings: IP20 (basic dust protection) – suitable for controlled environments.
Field Application & Problem Solved
In standard industrial power systems, unstable speed (load/grid fluctuations) and uneven load distribution (parallel generators) lead to:
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Grid frequency deviations (penalties/equipment shutdowns).
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Generator overload (reduced lifespan).
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Inefficient energy transfer (higher fuel consumption).
The 9905-003 addresses these via:
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Precision Speed Regulation: Uses phase-locked loop (PLL) algorithms to maintain speed within ±0.1% of the setpoint (isochronous mode), critical for grid compliance.
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Automatic Load Sharing: Distributes load evenly across generators (±1% accuracy) in droop mode. Example: A marine vessel using 9905-003 reduced generator maintenance costs by 20% via balanced load distribution.
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Flexible Mode Switching: Supports isochronous (standalone) and droop (parallel) modes for diverse operations.
Typical Applications:
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Power Generation: Controlling turbines/generators in coal/gas-fired plants.
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Marine Propulsion: Synchronizing shipboard generators for auxiliary power.
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Industrial Cogeneration: Balancing electrical/thermal loads in paper mills/refineries.
WOODWARD 9905-020P
Installation & Maintenance Pitfalls (Expert Tips)
For optimal performance of the 9905-003:
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Power Supply Check: Confirm input voltage (10-40 Vdc) with a multimeter to avoid damage.
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Sensor Calibration: Use a precision tachometer to calibrate the prime mover’s speed sensor (e.g., magnetic pickup) before installation.
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Load Sharing Test: Verify even load distribution (±1% accuracy) with a resistive load bank post-installation.
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Annual Maintenance: Inspect for wear (cracked casings, loose connections) and clean connectors with isopropyl alcohol.
Technical Deep Dive & Overview
The 9905-003 operates on Woodward’s 2301A analog control platform (base version, no extreme-environment enhancements):
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Signal Reception: Accepts inputs from speed sensors (magnetic pickup), load sensors (CTs), and operator potentiometers (setpoint/droop).
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Processing & Control: Analog circuitry with PID algorithms calculates fuel/steam flow. Isochronous mode maintains constant speed; droop mode adjusts for load.
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Output & Actuation: Sends 0–200 mA control signals to actuators (e.g., fuel valves) to regulate speed/load.
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Monitoring: Tracks overspeed, low oil pressure, and faults—triggering alarms via relay outputs.
Difference from 9905-003-L: The base 9905-003 lacks the L版’s extended temperature range (-50°C to +85°C), ATEX certification, IP54 rating, and cold-start compensation.
Final Notes
The Woodward 9905-003 is a reliable base-model controller for industrial prime mover speed/load management in standard environments. It is ideal for applications where extreme temperatures or harsh conditions are not a factor.
For extreme environments (arctic/offshore), upgrade to the 9905-003-L (Revision L). When installing/maintaining, follow Woodward’s 2301A Series Manual (Document # 2301A-OM-001) and consult certified technicians.
(Note: Specifications may vary—refer to the latest manufacturer documentation for definitive values.)
