ALSTOM LC105A-1 Digital Discrete Output (Relay)

Introduction to ALSTOM LC105A-1

The ALSTOM LC105A-1 is a high-reliability Digital Discrete Output Module (or Logic Controller Module) engineered for the ALSPA P320 and T2000 Distributed Control Systems (DCS).

This module serves as a critical interface for executing control commands by transmitting digital signals to external field devices such as interposing relays, solenoid valves, and indicator lights.

Designed to meet the rigorous demands of power generation and heavy industrial utilities, the LC105A-1 features a 16-channel relay output configuration.

It is particularly valued for its “sink current” design and its ability to maintain operational integrity in high-interference environments, bridging the gap between digital logic and physical actuation.

Technical Parameter Table

Related Models & Same Series

The LC105A-1 is part of a family of digital interface modules tailored for different voltage and polarity requirements:

LC105: The base version, also 16 channels at 48V DC.

LC105A-2: A 24V DC variant of the relay output module.

LC106-1 / LC106-2: Specialized non-polarized output modules (24/48V and 125V variants).

LE109A-1: The logic controller/CPU module that often acts as the “master” for the LC105 outputs.

AH901: The dedicated Power Supply Module used to feed the LC105 series racks.

Product Advantages and Features

High-Integrity Relay Isolation: Provides physical separation between sensitive DCS electronics and high-power field equipment, preventing back-EMF from damaging the system.

Rapid Response: Leverages high-speed digital signal processing to ensure output commands are executed with sub-millisecond precision.

Integrated Self-Diagnostics: Features built-in fault detection and alarm logging, allowing for real-time monitoring of module “health” through the SCADA interface.

Robust Environmental Adaptability: Built to withstand the temperature fluctuations and vibration levels typical of power plant turbine halls and petrochemical sites.

Modular Hot-Swap (System Dependent): In many ALSPA configurations, the “withdrawable” design allows for easier maintenance with minimal system disruption.

Application Cases

Turbine Control Systems: Driving the solenoid valves for steam turbine trip manifolds and governor systems.

Petrochemical Processing: Managing the safety interlocks and valve sequencing for high-pressure chemical reactors.

Substation Automation: Controlling the operation of circuit breakers and isolators via interposing relays.

Wastewater Treatment: Automating chemical dosing pumps and large-scale gate actuators.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation

Orientation: Align the module with the proprietary backplane/rack guides. Use the front-panel screws to ensure a secure connection against vibration.

Wiring: Connect the 48V DC field supply to the designated terminals. Ensure that current-limiting fuses are installed in the field loop to protect the relay contacts.

ESD Precautions: This module contains sensitive CMOS logic; always use an ESD wrist strap during handling.

Maintenance

Contact Testing: Periodically check the relay contact resistance. If a channel shows “High Impedance” when closed, the relay may be at its end-of-life.

Diagnostic Review: Use the Softlogic or ToolboxST engineering tools to check for error flags or communication timeouts.

Cleaning: Use compressed air to keep the rear connectors free of dust, which can cause intermittent signaling in humid environments.

Unique Product Description

The ALSTOM LC105A-1 is the “Executioner” of the ALSPA control system. While other cards perform the math and monitoring, the LC105A-1 is the unit that actually makes things happen in the physical world. It is unique for its dual-voltage architecture—running on 24V for its internal intelligence while switching 48V for its external work. For legacy systems transitioning to GE ownership, the LC105A-1 remains the go-to spare part for ensuring that a million-dollar turbine responds instantly to an emergency shut-down command.