IC3600EPSB1B - Regulator Board

SPECIFICATIONS

Part No: IC3600EPSB1B
Manufacturer: General Electric
Function: Regulator Board
Series: Mark I and II
Repair: 3-7 Day
Availability: In Stock
Country of Manufacturer: United States (USA)

Functional Description

IC3600EPSB1B is a Regulator Board developed by GE. It is a part of Mark I and II control system. The primary role of the board is to regulate the performance of the turbine system, especially in managing aspects like speed, fuel control, and stability. It functions by receiving input signals from sensors and other system components, processing these signals, and producing regulated outputs that help maintain consistent turbine operation.

System Operation

The operation of the gas turbine system is engineered for ease, safety, and reliability, thanks to the automation integrated within GE’s Mark I and II control systems. These systems streamline startup, synchronization, loading, and monitoring processes, reducing the need for manual intervention while providing extensive visibility into turbine performance.

Automatic Startup Sequence

Startup of the gas turbine plant is entirely automatic and is initiated by activating the Master Start/Stop Switch. Once a start signal is issued, the control system executes a predefined and highly coordinated startup sequence, ensuring that all systems and auxiliaries are brought online in the correct order.

• Status Indications: Throughout the startup process, status indicator lights on the operator panel provide real-time feedback. These lights track each phase—from "Ready to Start" through cranking, ignition (fire), and ultimately to "Complete Sequence"—allowing the operator to observe the sequence and detect any issues promptly.
• System Readiness: Before startup, the system verifies conditions such as sufficient lube oil pressure, proper alignment of auxiliary systems, and readiness of instrumentation.

Manual Startup Mode

• Although the system is designed for automatic startup, manual intervention is possible at critical stages for testing or troubleshooting purposes.
• Operators can pause the automatic sequence at designated checkpoints such as Crank or Fire using the Operation Selector Switch.
• This capability is particularly useful during system checkout, commissioning, or when validating specific subsystems.
• Manual mode enables step-by-step operation while preserving overall system integrity.

Fuel Selection (Dual Fuel Units)

• For turbines equipped to operate on dual fuel sources (such as gas and liquid fuel), the fuel selector switch on the panel allows operators to easily choose the desired fuel type prior to startup.
• This feature provides flexibility based on fuel availability, cost, or emissions regulations.
• The selected fuel is then automatically managed by the system during startup and operation.

Synchronization and Generator Loading

Once the turbine reaches operational speed, the system proceeds with automatic synchronization of the generator:

• The turbine is synchronized with the grid or load bus automatically, and the unit is loaded to a small reserve level known as spinning reserve.
• If a second start command is issued, the gas turbine ramps up power automatically to a preset base load or peak load, governed by temperature control settings selected from the panel.
• This controlled ramp-up ensures thermal stability and avoids overstressing the turbine.
• Manual synchronization and manual load adjustments are also supported, allowing the operator to fine-tune output for operational flexibility or system coordination.

Operational Monitoring

During turbine operation, performance and system health are monitored via:

• Control Panel Meters: These provide direct readings of key parameters such as turbine speed, temperature, pressure, and output load.
• ITS Integration (If Equipped): Units with Integrated Turbine Supervisory (ITS) systems offer enhanced monitoring. Operators can access:
  • Real-time operating temperatures
  • Historical performance data
  • Diagnostic information
  • Alarm logs and system trends
• This extensive monitoring supports proactive maintenance, improved diagnostics, and safer long-term operation.

WOC is happy to assist you with any of your GE requirements. Please contact us by phone or email for pricing and availability on any parts and repairs.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is IC3600EPSB1B?
It is a Regulator Board developed by GE.

What is the role of the fuel selector switch in the system?
For dual-fuel units, the Fuel Selector Switch allows the operator to choose between gas or liquid fuel before startup, providing operational flexibility based on fuel availability or system requirements.

How is synchronization of the generator achieved?
Synchronization is performed automatically once the turbine reaches operational speed. The system aligns the generator with the power grid and begins loading to a small spinning reserve level.

Can the operator manually control synchronization and loading?
Yes, the system includes manual controls for synchronization and loading, enabling operators to adjust generator output to any desired level based on system needs.