Retrofit of the soon to be obsolete old analogue Woodward 2301A LSSC (Load Share and Speed Control) with the state-of-the-art Digital Woodward 2301E LSSC. The new digital control has the same fit and functionality but with additional features to improve performance.
Digital controller 2301E
The analogue 2301A LSSC is commonly used on supply vessels such as this, and in many other applications especially where isochronous load sharing between generators is desired. The 2301A was originally designed more than 30 years ago and is renowned for its reliability. However, due to its age, component obsolescence makes it difficult to support and is costlier.
The latest digital controller 2301E has been in production for more than 4 years and has become the ideal tried and tested replacement. The 2301E has the same mounting and terminal specifications as the 2301A and only a few wiring changes may be required depending on the application.
Easy to setup controller
2301E has features to reduce smoke at startup and during load transients as well as different dynamic settings
Using a PC interface, the new 2301E eliminates the need for potentiometers that could be adjusted by anyone with a screwdriver. The new controller setup is also much more precise using real engineering units as opposed to using jumpers and potentiometers for configuration and tuning. This also has the advantage of minimising variations between multiple controllers and as a result, minimises variation in engine response.
Additionally, the new 2301E has features to reduce smoke at startup and during load transients as well as different dynamic settings for different operating modes. All this delivers an easy to setup controller where parameter settings from one controller can be downloaded to the next, therefore providing plug and play spaces, as well as guaranteed improved engine performance.
improved functionality and reliability
The retrofit was completed for unit 1 in less than a day without affecting the operating philosophy, the client enjoys the reliability, performance, and added functionality that accompanies the Woodward 2301E controller. The site was handed over to the client after completing the required load tests and onboard personnel training.
Recommendation
The 2301E will be supported by Woodward for many years to come and is already the less expensive option compared to the 2301A which is fast approaching its end of life. It is recommended therefore to consider this retrofit as part of the fleet maintenance schedules.
