WOODWARD 2301D Digital Load Sharing & Speed Control 8273-140 REV C
The WOODWARD 2301D Digital Load Sharing & Speed Control (Part Number: 8273-140 REV C) is a sophisticated, microprocessor-based controller designed for managing and optimizing the performance of generator sets and prime movers in power generation systems. This advanced control unit is particularly useful in applications requiring precise load sharing, speed control, and synchronization of multiple engines, ensuring stable and efficient operation in distributed generation environments.
The 2301D controller is ideal for industrial, marine, and utility applications, where it plays a crucial role in load balancing, speed regulation, and synchronization between generator units. With features like automatic frequency control, load sharing, and fault detection, the 2301D enhances system reliability and minimizes downtime, making it an invaluable tool for both standalone and parallel generator setups.
Key Features:
- Load Sharing Control: Ensures that multiple generators share load equally or according to a set priority, preventing overloads and optimizing efficiency.
- Speed Control: Provides precise control over the engine’s speed to maintain a stable output, even under varying load conditions.
- Automatic Synchronization: Automatically synchronizes generators to ensure that they operate in phase, preventing harmful transients when connecting to the grid or other generators.
- Dynamic Response: Offers rapid response to load changes, ensuring minimal disruption to system performance when load variations occur.
- Fault Detection and Diagnostics: Includes advanced diagnostic tools to detect faults and troubleshoot issues in real-time, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- User Interface: Equipped with a clear and intuitive display for easy configuration, monitoring, and diagnostics, simplifying operation and setup.
- Remote Monitoring and Control: Supports remote monitoring and control via communication protocols like Modbus RTU and CAN bus, making it ideal for large-scale or distributed systems.
- Flexible Inputs and Outputs: The 2301D features multiple inputs and outputs, allowing integration with various sensors, actuators, and systems.
Technical Specifications:
- Part Number: 8273-140 REV C
- Input Voltage: 24V DC (Nominal), 18-32V DC operating range
- Output Voltage: 0-10V DC for speed control; 4-20mA for load sharing feedback
- Control Type: Digital microprocessor-based control
- Communication Protocols: Modbus RTU, CAN bus, and Ethernet (optional for remote monitoring)
- Speed Control Range: ±5% of rated speed (adjustable)
- Load Sharing Accuracy: ±2% of rated load
- Operating Temperature: -40°C to +70°C
- Humidity: 5% to 95% RH, non-condensing
- Dimensions: 221 mm x 178 mm x 70 mm
- Weight: 1.5 kg
- Mounting Type: Panel mount or DIN rail (mounting kit included)
- Certification: UL, CE, RoHS Compliant
Protection Features:
- Overload Protection: The controller will initiate protective actions to prevent the generator from being overloaded, ensuring system safety.
- Underfrequency and Overfrequency Protection: Automatic protection against frequency deviations beyond set limits to prevent generator damage.
- Overvoltage and Undervoltage Protection: Prevents damage to the system in case of voltage fluctuations.
- Overcurrent Protection: Detects excessive current and activates protective shutdowns or load reduction strategies.
- Temperature Protection: Monitors temperature levels to prevent overheating of generator units or control components.
Installation and Maintenance Instructions:
- Installation:
- Mount the 2301D controller in a control panel or on a DIN rail, ensuring that the environment is dry and within the operating temperature range.
- Connect the 24V DC input power supply to the controller, ensuring correct polarity and secure connections.
- Wire the speed control and load sharing feedback outputs to the generator’s respective control and feedback devices.
- Connect the communication interfaces (Modbus RTU, CAN bus) for remote monitoring and integration with SCADA or other control systems.
- Use the front panel display to configure basic settings, including speed limits, load sharing parameters, and synchronization features.
- Maintenance:
- Regularly check the controller’s front panel display for system alerts or faults.
- Test the load sharing functionality by varying the load between multiple generators and confirming that the controllers adjust accordingly.
- Inspect wiring connections periodically to ensure there are no signs of wear or damage.
- Verify that the temperature sensors and feedback devices are functioning correctly to prevent overheating or other safety issues.
- Perform a software update, if available, to ensure that the system is running the latest version of the firmware.
- Diagnostics: Use the built-in diagnostic features to monitor system performance and identify any issues such as communication errors, load imbalances, or component failures.
Product Recommendations:
For applications requiring advanced load control, synchronization, and integration with other power generation systems, consider the following similar products:
| Product | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| WOODWARD 2301D-1 | A variant of the 2301D with enhanced features for larger and more complex systems. | WOODWARD 2301D-1 |
| Basler DECS-250 | A digital excitation and load sharing control system designed for generator sets. | Basler DECS-250 |
| Schneider Electric ATS48 Soft Starter | A soft starter system with load-sharing and speed control capabilities for motors and generators. | Schneider ATS48 |
Advantages of WOODWARD 2301D:
- High Precision Load Sharing: Ensures that multiple generators share the load evenly, optimizing fuel consumption and reducing operational costs.
- Automatic Synchronization: Eliminates the need for manual synchronization, reducing the risk of errors and improving safety when starting or connecting generators to the grid.
- Robust Protection Features: With comprehensive protection against overcurrent, overvoltage, and other faults, the 2301D enhances system reliability and longevity.
- Remote Monitoring: The integration with Modbus RTU and CAN bus communication protocols allows for centralized control and monitoring, ideal for large-scale or distributed generation systems.
- Scalability: Suitable for both small-scale and large-scale power generation systems, making it a versatile solution for various applications.
Conclusion:
The WOODWARD 2301D Digital Load Sharing & Speed Control (Part Number: 8273-140 REV C) is an advanced and reliable solution for managing generator load sharing and speed control in distributed generation applications. With its precise load-sharing capabilities, automatic synchronization, and protection features, it ensures the efficient and stable operation of generator sets in industrial, marine, and utility sectors. The controller’s intuitive interface, remote monitoring options, and integration with various communication protocols make it an ideal choice for optimizing the performance and reliability of your power generation systems.

