IC3603A177A - Potted Relay Module

SPECIFICATIONS

Part No.: IC3603A177A
Manufacturer: General Electric
Product Type: Potted Relay Module
Availability: In Stock
Series: VersaMax

Functional Description

IC3603A177A is a Potted Relay Module developed by GE. It is a part of GE Mark I and II series. The module functions in control logic circuitry, where it is responsible for switching electrical signals and activating control functions based on predefined sequences and operating conditions. It has protective encapsulation of the relay components in a durable insulating compound.

Turbine Speed Control Functionality

The speed control system is a fundamental component of the turbine control mechanism, designed to regulate turbine operation based on a predefined setpoint. This setpoint represents the desired speed or load condition for the turbine, and the control system continuously adjusts the turbine's output to align with this target. There are two primary modes of operation.

• Isochronous Control Mode: In this mode, the turbine speed is maintained exactly equal to the setpoint. This provides precise speed regulation and is typically used when the turbine operates independently or is not synchronized with a power grid. Isochronous control is ideal for applications requiring constant speed output, such as mechanical drive systems.
• Droop Control Mode: When the turbine is connected to a power grid and the generator is synchronized to the system, droop control is employed. In this mode, the turbine speed will decrease slightly as load increases—a behavior defined by a fixed percentage droop. Here, the setpoint doesn't directly control speed but instead determines the load (power output) of the turbine. This mode facilitates load sharing among multiple turbines operating in parallel.

Additionally, the system accounts for the rate of change of the setpoint, which directly influences how quickly the turbine responds to commands—this governs the loading and unloading rates. Operators can select predefined load setpoints and programmable ramp rates to ensure smooth and controlled transitions during power changes.

The setpoint input can be commanded from two main sources:

• A local control switch located on the turbine or generator panel, allowing manual operation by on-site personnel.
• A remote raise/lower switch, enabling centralized or automated control from a control room or supervisory system.

For generator-driven gas turbines, there is an added level of control through a load limiter. This device adjusts the turbine load based on a feedback signal proportional to the actual generator output. The load limiter is capable of switching between three predefined load levels:

• Spinning Reserve Load – a lower load setting that allows the turbine to remain online and available for rapid response without full output.
• Intermediate Preselected Load – a mid-range operational setting for partial power demands.
• Maximum Load – the highest allowable output under normal operating conditions.

This combination of modes and control features enables flexible, safe, and efficient operation of the turbine across a variety of load and grid conditions.

The WOC team is always available to help you with your Mark I and II requirements. For more information, please contact WOC.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is IC3603A177A?
It is a Potted Relay Module developed by GE.

How is the turbine load controlled in droop mode?
In droop control, the load is determined by the setpoint. As load increases, the turbine speed decreases slightly, and the system adjusts power output accordingly to maintain balance with the grid.

What determines how quickly a turbine loads or unloads?
The rate of change of the setpoint governs the loading and unloading speeds. Predefined load points and adjustable ramp rates help manage transitions smoothly.