Description
Woodward 5501-381 MicroNet Module – High‑reliability control/interface card for turbines and compressors
The Woodward 5501-381 is a MicroNet rack module used on critical rotating equipment—gas/steam turbines, large compressors, and generator sets. From my experience, this series is chosen when plants want deterministic control behavior with clean diagnostics and straightforward serviceability. You might notice the consistent front handle/LED layout across the MicroNet family; it makes status checks and hot‑swap procedures feel familiar during tight outage windows.
Order Placement Process and Guarantees
- Warranty period: 365 days
- Delivery time: 1 week for in-stock; no more than one month at the latest
- Payment method: 50% advance payment; full payment for delivery
- Express delivery methods: FedEx, UPS, DHL
Key Features
- MicroNet platform integration
– Fits Woodward’s rack‑based architecture commonly used in redundant/TMR turbine and compressor controls. - Deterministic control behavior
– Stable, predictable response for trip, permissive, and sequence logic—exactly what operators expect under demand. - Backplane‑managed health and configuration
– Controller supervises module status; front LEDs provide quick visual checks to speed troubleshooting. - Service-friendly, hot‑replaceable design
– In most cases, cards can be swapped online following OEM procedures and site bypass rules to minimize downtime. - Rugged construction for cabinet environments
– Industrial connectors and conformal coating practices are commonly applied to handle vibration and humidity. - Matched termination assemblies
– Pairs with Woodward TAs for tidy wiring, clear labeling, and faster loop checks during FAT/SAT.
Technical Specifications
| Brand / Model | Woodward 5501-381 (MicroNet Module) |
|---|---|
| HS Code | 853890 (Parts for electrical control panels / programmable controllers) |
| Power Requirements | Backplane powered by MicroNet rack (typical 5 V / 24 V rails; see controller manual for current draw) |
| Operating Temperature | Typically 0 to +60 °C, non‑condensing control cabinet environment |
| Signal Input/Output Types | Field I/O via associated Woodward termination assemblies; exact channel type/count depends on the 5501‑381 function within the rack |
| Communication Interfaces | Proprietary MicroNet backplane; field wiring through dedicated terminal boards/cables (as applicable) |
| Installation Method | Plug‑in rack module with front‑panel status LEDs; hot‑swap per OEM procedure |
| Dimensions & Weight | Standard MicroNet card format suitable for Woodward racks |
Application Fields
Plants typically deploy the 5501‑381 wherever high‑integrity control needs a dependable, hardwired interface:
- Gas & steam turbines – trip paths, sequencing, and speed/load control inside MicroNet cabinets.
- Compressors – anti‑surge/protection interlocks tied to valves and process measurements.
- Generator sets – breaker logic, permissives, and balance‑of‑plant signals.
- Refining, petrochemical, LNG – clean handshakes to plant DCS/SIS via hardwired signals.
- Power & utilities – deterministic control at the interface between turbomachinery and plant systems.
Advantages & Value
- Reliability in critical service – Stable hardware with clear LED indication reduces nuisance trips in many cases.
- Compatibility – Native fit with MicroNet racks and termination assemblies lowers integration risk and engineering time.
- Maintainability – Hot‑replaceable approach and backplane diagnostics speed fault isolation during outages.
- Lifecycle efficiency – Shared spares/documentation across the MicroNet family help contain inventory costs.
- Supported by a strong ecosystem – Global Woodward service and a large installed base make upkeep simpler.
Installation & Maintenance
- Cabinet environment – Mount the rack in a clean, ventilated enclosure; keep ambient within spec and leave front clearance for card extraction.
- Wiring practices – Use the specified Woodward termination assemblies and shielded cabling; separate low‑level I/O from power/VFD runs and bond shields correctly.
- Safety – Apply LOTO on field circuits; for online replacement, follow OEM steps and site bypass policy.
- Routine checks – Verify terminal torque, inspect connectors, clean dust from card edges, and proof‑test channels at planned intervals.
- Change control – Keep firmware and logic under MOC; back up the rack configuration before planned work. If you want us to verify exact channel counts for 5501‑381, share the rack BOM and revision.
Quality & Certifications
- Compliance – Typically CE for the system assembly; many projects also reference UL/CSA and RoHS at the panel level.
- Functional safety use – Applied within MicroNet redundant/TMR architectures that support SIL‑rated controls when engineered per the safety manual.
- Warranty – 365 days from delivery.
A turbine controls tech told me after a restart, “The card swap was quick, and the LEDs pointed straight to a wiring mix‑up.” That kind of day‑to‑day predictability is why the 5501‑series keeps showing up in critical cabinets.












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