Safety Control Core

Built around an Intel 80196 microprocessor with multiple sets of secure PROM firmware.

Operates independently of the main control card, ensuring deterministic and real-time protection response within <10 ms.

Designed to maintain protection integrity even during main control system failures.

Key Hardware Components

Three onboard protective fuses for power and circuit protection.

Approximately 30 configuration jumpers (J1–J8 and others) used for:

RS-232 enable/disable

Speed and current range configuration

Protection logic selection and test modes

Includes bayonet-style connectors for secure system docking and vibration-resistant installation.

Supported Signal Types

Turbine speed pulse inputs

Flame detector signals

Trip logic and interlock inputs

Supports programmable overspeed thresholds and redundant fault signal evaluation to enhance protection reliability.

Interfaces and Status Indication

System Interfaces

JE interface: Communication with the TCQC board

3PL connector: Data exchange with the STCA board

Two bayonet connectors: Interface to the RST core backplane and associated terminal boards

Debug and Configuration Interface

RS-232 serial port (enabled via J7 jumper)

Used for:

Safety parameter configuration

Fault and event log retrieval

Firmware verification and diagnostics

Status Indication

Single side-mounted LED indicator providing quick visual status of:

Power availability

Communication health

Overspeed or flame-out fault conditions

Physical Characteristics and Power Requirements

Form factor: Standard GE Mark V RST core board

Dimensions: Approximately 160 mm × 100 mm × 40 mm

Weight: Approximately 0.5–0.7 kg

Power supplies:

+5 VDC (logic and processor regulation)

±15 VDC (analog signal conditioning)

Operating temperature: –40 °C to +70 °C

Isolation rating: 500 VDC withstand between input and output circuits

Includes overvoltage and reverse-polarity protection

Core Functions and Typical Applications

Overspeed Protection

Continuously monitors turbine speed pulse signals.

When the preset overspeed threshold is exceeded:

Triggers immediate emergency shutdown

Cuts off fuel supply

Locks actuators to prevent further acceleration

Thresholds configurable via jumpers and firmware parameters.

Flame Loss Protection

Processes signals from the flame detector.

Detects flame-out conditions and initiates the trip logic, coordinating with overspeed protection to execute a safe shutdown sequence.

Independent Safety Architecture

Protection logic operates fully independent of the main control processor.

Prevents loss of protection due to controller, software, or communication failures.

Designed to meet IEC 61508 functional safety requirements for turbine protection systems.

Typical Applications

GE Mark V gas and steam turbine RST safety core systems.

Commonly used with:

DS200TCCAG1B (Analog I/O Board)

DS200STBAG1A (Drive Terminal Board)

Applied in critical safety protection scenarios, including:

Unit overspeed events

Flame loss during startup or operation

Extreme or abnormal operating conditions