Description
Product Overview
The Woodward 9905-799 is a digital synchronizer and load control module designed for industrial power systems, belonging to Woodward’s 2301A series of electronic load sharing and speed control devices. It serves as a critical component for synchronizing the frequency and phase of offline generators with online systems (e.g., utility grids or other generators) and distributing load evenly across paralleled generator sets.
As part of Woodward’s 2301A ecosystem, the 9905-799 is widely used in industries where stable power output and efficient load management are paramount—such as power plants, marine propulsion systems, and industrial cogeneration facilities. Its primary role is to ensure seamless parallel operation of generators, preventing electrical faults (e.g., phase mismatch, frequency deviations) and optimizing power transfer efficiency.
Key Technical Specifications
The 9905-799’s technical parameters are tailored for harsh industrial environments and high-precision control, with insights from Woodward 2301A series documentation and industrial supplier listings:
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Input Voltage:
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Power supply: 18–40 V DC (nominal 24 V DC) – compatible with global industrial power systems.
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Generator potential transformers: 120/240 V AC – supports both European (230 V AC) and North American (120 V AC) power standards.
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Output Signals:
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Voltage bias output: ±9 V DC – for driving external devices or indicating synchronization status.
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Discrete outputs: Sink up to 200 mA DC – for alarm indication (e.g., synchronization failure, overvoltage).
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Control Modes:
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Isochronous Mode: Maintains constant prime mover speed (±0.1% tolerance) for standalone or isolated bus operation.
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Droop Mode: Adjusts speed based on load (adjustable droop percentage) for parallel operation with other generators.
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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) – suitable for extreme industrial environments (e.g., power plants, marine vessels).
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Certifications: CE, UL, CSA – compliant with international industrial safety standards.
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Dimensions: Compact form factor (typical: ~280 mm × 210 mm × 90 mm) – fits standard industrial cabinets.
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Weight: ~3.1 kg (6.8 lbs) – lightweight for easy handling during maintenance.
Woodward 9905-090
Field Application & Problem Solved
In industrial power generation and marine applications, improper generator synchronization (e.g., frequency mismatch, phase difference) and uneven load distribution (across parallel generators) can lead to:
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Electrical faults (e.g., short circuits, equipment damage).
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Grid penalties (e.g., fines for frequency deviations).
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Downtime (e.g., generator tripping, process interruptions).
The 9905-799 addresses these challenges through:
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Precision Synchronization:It uses phase-locked loop (PLL) algorithms to match the offline generator’s frequency and phase with the online system (e.g., utility grid) within ±0.1 Hz and ±10° phase difference, respectively. This ensures compliance with grid requirements and prevents phase mismatch faults.
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Automatic Load Sharing:In parallel operation (droop mode), the 9905-799 distributes load evenly across generators (±1% accuracy). For example, a marine vessel using multiple generators with the 9905-799 reduced generator maintenance costs by 20% due to balanced load distribution.
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Flexible Mode Switching:The module supports isochronous (constant speed) and droop (load-dependent speed) modes, allowing it to adapt to different operational requirements (e.g., standalone backup power vs. parallel grid-connected operation).
Typical Applications:
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Power Generation: Synchronizing standby generators to the utility grid during peak demand or outages.
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Marine Propulsion: Synchronizing shipboard generators for auxiliary power generation with load sharing.
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Industrial Cogeneration: Balancing electrical load and thermal steam demand in industrial facilities (e.g., paper mills, refineries).
Installation & Maintenance Pitfalls (Expert Tips)
To ensure optimal performance and reliability of the 9905-799, follow these best practices:
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Verify Power Supply Compatibility:
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Confirm that the input voltage (18–40 V DC) matches the module’s rating. Mismatched voltage can damage the internal circuitry—use a multimeter to check the input voltage before installation.
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Calibrate Speed Sensors:
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Use a precision tachometer to calibrate the prime mover’s speed sensor (e.g., magnetic pickup) before installing the 9905-799. Incorrect sensor calibration can lead to speed deviations—verify with a multimeter.
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Test Synchronization Logic:
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After installation, test the synchronization logic using a signal generator to simulate frequency/phase changes. Verify that the module correctly adjusts the generator’s speed and sends a synchronization signal when the conditions are met.
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Perform Regular Maintenance:
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Inspect the 9905-799 annually for signs of wear (e.g., cracked casings, loose connections). Clean the module’s connectors with isopropyl alcohol to remove dirt and debris, which can cause communication failures.
Woodward 9905-090
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Technical Deep Dive & Overview
The 9905-799 operates on Woodward’s 2301A analog control platform, which combines a feedback loop with adjustable gain settings to deliver precise speed and load control. Here’s a simplified breakdown of its workflow:
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Signal Reception:The module receives input signals from:
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Speed sensor (magnetic pickup) monitoring prime mover shaft rotation.
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Load sensor (current transformer) measuring generator output current.
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Generator potential transformer (120/240 V AC) measuring grid voltage.
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Processing & Control:The analog circuitry processes the input signals using PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) algorithms to calculate the required speed and load adjustments. The isochronous mode maintains constant speed by adjusting the actuator output, while the droop mode adjusts speed based on load.
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Synchronization:The module uses a phase comparator to align the generator’s phase with the online system’s phase. Once synchronized, it sends a contact closure signal to close the circuit breaker, enabling parallel operation.
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Output & Actuation:The module sends a control signal to the prime mover’s actuator (e.g., fuel valve) to adjust the fuel/steam flow, thereby regulating speed and load. Simultaneously, it monitors for fault conditions (e.g., overspeed, low oil pressure) and triggers alarms if necessary.
What sets the 9905-799 apart is its balance of precision and simplicity. Unlike digital controllers, the analog platform eliminates the need for complex programming, making it easy to install and maintain—critical for 24/7 operations like power plants.
Final Notes
The Woodward 9905-799 is a reliable and essential component of Woodward’s 2301A series, enabling precise synchronization and load control for industrial generators and turbines. Its compatibility with multiple prime mover types, flexible control modes, and robust design make it ideal for mission-critical applications where stable power output is non-negotiable.
When installing or maintaining the 9905-799, always adhere to Woodward’s guidelines and consult with a certified technician to ensure optimal performance. For more detailed information, refer to Woodward’s official 2301A Series Load Sharing and Speed Control Manual (Document # 2301A-OM-001) or contact Woodward’s customer support for application-specific advice.



