Triconex 3636R Relay Output Module – High-integrity discrete output for TMR safety systems

The model here is the Triconex 3636R, a relay output module designed for Triconex TMR safety PLCs used in ESD, F&G, and high-availability process control. One thing I appreciate is how it pairs the fault-tolerant architecture with simple, robust relay contacts—ideal when you need hardwired, fail-safe actuation more than high switching speeds. You might notice that some listings mistakenly label it as “Bentley 3636R”; in practice, this part is from Triconex (Schneider Electric), and it belongs in a Tricon safety system chassis.

Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: typically 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
• Express carriers: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• TMR safety architecture
  – Works within the Triconex triple-modular-redundant system for high availability and fault tolerance.
• Relay (dry contact) outputs
  – Isolated contacts for driving interposing relays, solenoids, and permissive circuits where galvanic isolation is preferred.
• Channel density suited to ESD/F&G
  – Multi‑channel arrangement (commonly 32–36 points per module depending on termination assembly) to reduce cabinet footprint.
• Online diagnostics
  – Continuous self-test and status indication; from my experience, quick fault localization speeds up turnaround during shutdowns.
• Hot‑replaceable design
  – Module replacement can typically be done online in a healthy TMR configuration following OEM procedure.
• Fail‑safe behavior
  – Deterministic de‑energize on fault or commanded trip, as configured in the safety application logic.
• Flexible field termination
  – Works with Triconex termination assemblies (TAs) for fused, isolated, or grouped wiring topologies.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

The 3636R is typically selected for critical discrete actuation where galvanic isolation and deterministic behavior matter more than high switching speed. Common scenarios:

• Emergency Shutdown (ESD) – tripping final elements, interposing relays, and valve solenoids.
• Fire & Gas (F&G) – energizing sounders, beacons, suppression systems, and damper controls.
• Boiler/BMS and turbine protection – permissive circuits and safety interlocks.
• Refining, petrochemical, LNG – where SIL-rated TMR logic and hardwired outputs are standard practice.
• Power generation & utilities – trip relays, breaker control, and protection interface signaling.

Advantages & Value for Procurement

• Reliability under demand – Designed for high-integrity shutdown service; fewer nuisance trips in most cases.
• Compatibility – Natively integrates with Triconex processors and termination assemblies; saves integration time.
• Lifecycle cost – Relay isolation often reduces the need for external interface modules, cutting wiring and spares.
• Maintainability – Hot‑replacement and clear diagnostics shorten outage windows.
• Support – Documentation, spare strategy, and migration paths are mature for the Tricon platform.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet & environment – Install in a clean, dry, ventilated control cabinet (typically 0–60 °C). Maintain clearance for airflow and card extraction.
• Wiring – Use the specified Triconex termination assembly and cable set. Separate I/O from power cabling; observe relay contact ratings and suppression where inductive loads exist.
• Safety – Follow LOTO and OEM hot‑swap procedures. Verify trip logic is inhibited or bypassed per site policy before replacement.
• Routine checks – Visually inspect terminal tightness, fuses (if TA is fused), and relay actuation in proof tests.
• Firmware/config – Keep controller firmware and application logic under change control; back up configuration before planned work.
• Calibration – Not required for relay outputs; however, periodic functional testing is recommended (typically per SIL proof test interval).

Quality & Certifications

• Safety integrity – Triconex systems are widely certified to IEC 61508 up to SIL3 when applied per the safety manual; the 3636R is a system component within that certification.
• Compliance – Typically CE compliant; many installations also reference UL/CSA and RoHS conformity for the overall system.
• Warranty – 365 days from delivery.

From my experience, maintenance teams like the 3636R because fault isolation is straightforward and relay contacts behave predictably during proof tests. A refinery customer put it plainly: “It just does what it should when it matters,” which is really the point in an ESD cabinet.