Flex500

Optionally, this controller can be purchased with or without an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) front panel. The panel-mounted models feature an 8-inch (20 cm) graphic display and a keypad. The wall-mounted models do not include a graphic display or keypad and are designed for installation in a hazardous area zone-2 environment.

The optional front panel serves as both an engineering station and an Operator Control Panel (OCP). This user-friendly interface allows plant operators to easily start/stop the turbine and activate/deactivate any control mode, as well as access and maintain the unit when needed. Password protection ensures access to all operational and service modes is secure. The controller’s optional 8-inch graphic display allows operators to view both actual and setpoint values on the same screen, simplifying operation.

Woodward’s Control Interface Studio (CIS) is an integrated development environment (IDE) that control engineers or GUI developers can use to create custom graphical user interfaces for use with the Woodward Flex500 control platform. Once installed on a computer, this software enables the rapid development of custom GUI applications, which can be downloaded to the Flex500 platform, a Windows computer, or a touchscreen panel. Refer to Woodward Product Specification 03448 for more information on this program.

The Flex500 control input/output channel interface and communication ports are located on the side and lower panels of the controller (see Figure 1). Non-removable terminal blocks allow for easier system installation, troubleshooting, and replacement. Optionally, users can increase the number and type of input and output signals to/from the Flex500 controller by using and connecting Woodward’s RTCnet and/or LINKnet HT distributed I/O via the Flex500’s CAN communication ports. Refer to Woodward Product Specification 03402 for a better understanding of the application of RTCnet and LINKnet HT distributed I/O modules.

The onboard and remote I/O of the Flex500 control is optimized for fast command processing. The controller’s 0.5 ms I/O scan time, high precision, and program synchronization make it ideal for use in controlling and protecting high-speed critical rotating equipment.

Powerful real-time microprocessor control for turbines and engines

– Integrated graphic option in the operator control panel
– Fast, accurate I/O card channels
– Combines real-time control with PLC programming
– Deterministic scan rates as fast as 5 ms
– Distributed I/O capability
– Compliant with SNTP time synchronization protocol
– Network control
– 4 Ethernet network ports
– 4 CAN ports
– Compatible with RTCnet
– Low-cost alternative to a general-purpose PLC
– Sulfur-resistant conformal coating
– Certified for hazardous locations