TRICONEX 8110

Description

Product Overview and Description

The TRICONEX 8110 is a high-performance, triple modular redundant (TMR) main processor module, forming the computational core of the legacy Tricon v9 and v10 Safety Instrumented System (SIS) controllers. This module is the central intelligence of the system, responsible for executing the user-programmed safety logic, performing the TMR voting on inputs and outputs, managing communications, and coordinating all system diagnostics. The primary function of the TRICONEX 8110 is to provide the fault-tolerant processing power necessary for critical safety applications, where a single failure must not prevent the system from taking its designated safe action. As the brain of the Tricon controller, the integrity and reliability of the TRICONEX 8110 are paramount. The design of this processor module embodies the principles of fault tolerance, making the TRICONEX 8110 a cornerstone of safety systems in some of the world’s most hazardous processes.

Detailed Product Parameters

• Function: TMR Main Processor (MP) Module for Tricon v9/v10 Safety Controllers.
• Architecture: Employs Triple Modular Redundancy (TMR) with three independent, synchronized 32-bit microprocessors operating in parallel. A hardware voter compares the outputs of the three channels.
• Memory: Integrates onboard RAM for program execution and SRAM memory cards (like the TM11 series) for non-volatile storage of the operating system and application logic.
• Diagnostic Coverage: Features extensive built-in self-test (BIST) and diagnostic routines that continuously test processors, memory, and voting logic. Faults are reported to the diagnostic processor and the engineering workstation.
• Scan Time: Capable of very fast, deterministic scan times suitable for high-speed safety applications.
• Communication: Contains interfaces for the internal TMR bus (to I/O modules) and for communication with the Tricon communication modules (for peer-to-peer networks, Host, etc.).
• Form Factor: A large, multi-chip circuit board that occupies a dedicated slot in the Tricon main chassis.
• Status Indicators: Includes multiple LEDs for power, fault status, and channel activity for each of the three internal processors.

Key Advantages and Features

1. Certified Fault Tolerance: The TRICONEX 8110 is designed and certified for Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) up to Safety Integrity Level (SIL) 3. Its TMR architecture ensures that no single point of failure within the processor can prevent a safe shutdown.
2. High Diagnostic Coverage: Continuous and comprehensive diagnostics detect over 99% of potential dangerous failures, allowing the system to initiate a safe state proactively and enabling high Safety Availability (SA) figures.
3. Deterministic Performance: The module provides predictable and fast scan time performance, which is essential for time-critical safety functions where response time is a key safety parameter.
4. Seamless System Integration: As the central processor, it is fully compatible with the entire ecosystem of Tricon v9/v10 I/O modules, communication cards, and the TriStation 1131 programming software, providing a unified and proven platform.
5. Robust Industrial Design: Built to operate reliably in the harsh environmental conditions (temperature, vibration, EMI) found in industrial plants such as oil refineries and offshore platforms.

Primary Application Fields and Use Cases

The TRICONEX 8110 processor is deployed in the most critical safety applications across heavy process industries.

• Oil & Gas: Emergency Shutdown Systems (ESD) for offshore platforms, Fire & Gas (F&G) detection and control systems, and Turbine Control for compressors.
• Power Generation: Burner Management Systems (BMS) for boilers and Turbine Trip systems.
• Chemical & Petrochemical: Critical interlock and shutdown systems for high-pressure reactors, distillation columns, and handling of toxic or flammable materials.
• Use Case Example: On a gas production platform, a Tricon controller with a TRICONEX 8110 main processor runs the ESD logic. It continuously monitors pressure transmitters across wellheads and pipelines. If two-out-of-three voting within the 8110’s processors determines a pressure has exceeded a safe limit, it commands the closure of subsea safety valves. The TMR design ensures this action occurs even if one of the three internal processor channels has a latent fault.

Comparison with Competing Products

• vs. Standard Safety PLCs (1oo1D architecture): Standard safety PLCs use a single processor with diagnostics (1oo1D). The TRICONEX 8110’s TMR (2oo3) architecture offers a higher level of hardware fault tolerance and availability, making it suitable for more critical applications where a spurious trip is also very costly.
• vs. Other TMR System Processors (e.g., HIMA H51q): Competitors offer similar TMR architectures. The TRICONEX 8110 is distinguished by its specific integration with the Tricon I/O system, its TriStation programming environment, and its extensive installed base in certain industries like offshore oil & gas.
• vs. Newer Tricon Processors (e.g., Trident / Tricon CX): The 8110 is a legacy module for the v9/v10 platform. Newer systems offer higher processing speeds, more memory, and modern communication interfaces (Ethernet). However, the 8110 remains in widespread service.

Selection Suggestions and Important Precautions

• Selection Advice: The TRICONEX 8110 is selected as part of a new Tricon v9/v10 system design or as a direct replacement for a failed processor in an existing system. It is critical to match the exact part number and firmware revision. Verify compatibility with the existing chassis, power supply, and I/O modules.
• Precaution – Firmware and Application Backup: Before removing or replacing the module, ensure a complete and verified backup of the application logic and the processor’s firmware files exists in the TriStation 1131 software. The new module will need to be programmed.
• Precaution – Handling and ESD: This is an extremely sensitive electronic component. Always use an anti-static wrist strap and handle the board by its edges. Never touch the connectors or integrated circuits.
• Precaution – Configuration Switches: The module may have configuration switches or jumpers. Document their settings on the old module before removal and replicate them exactly on the new TRICONEX 8110.
• Precaution – Source and Testing: Due to its critical function, source the module from authorized Emerson/Triconex channels or highly reputable surplus specialists who can provide testing documentation. Consider the service history of refurbished units. After installation, a full functional loop test of the safety system is mandatory.

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