Description:

The TRICONEX 3008​ is an 8-channel, 24 VDC digital input module designed for the Tricon Safety Instrumented System (SIS) and Critical Control System. It serves as a primary interface, connecting field devices like emergency stop buttons, pressure switches, level switches, and flame detectors to the fault-tolerant Tricon controller. Its core function is to reliably acquire the discrete status (ON/OFF) of these critical safety devices and transmit the data to the main processors for execution of Safety Instrumented Functions (SIFs).

Application Scenarios:

In a high-pressure gas compression station, multiple safety-critical field switches monitor for hazardous conditions. A high-pressure switch and a gas detection sensor are hardwired to a TRICONEX 3008​ module installed in a remote I/O rack. Under normal conditions, the switches are closed, and the module reads a “healthy” signal. If the gas pressure exceeds a safe limit, the pressure switch opens. The 3008​ module’s triple-redundant input circuits immediately and independently detect this change. The module performs a 2-out-of-3 (2oo3) voting on the three signals right at the input point. This voted “trip” status is then communicated with high integrity to the main Tricon controllers. The controllers then execute the pre-programmed Safety Instrumented Function, commanding emergency shutdown valves to close, thereby preventing a potentially catastrophic event. The module’s built-in diagnostics continuously monitor for faults like channel failures or wire breaks, ensuring the system’s safety availability remains intact.

Parameter:

Technical Principles and Innovative Values:

The TRICONEX 3008​ is engineered for ultimate reliability in safety applications, employing Triple Modular Redundancy (TMR) at the fundamental I/O level.

Innovation Point 1: Triple Modular Redundant (TMR) Input Design:​ Each of the 8 input channels on the 3008​ consists of three completely independent, isolated circuits. A single field signal is connected and read by all three circuits simultaneously. The module performs a 2-out-of-3 (2oo3) vote on these three readings locallybefore sending a single, validated result to the main processors. This architecture allows the module to tolerate a failure in any one of its three input circuits without loss of function, ensuring continuous, fault-tolerant operation—a cornerstone of high Safety Integrity Level (SIL 3) performance.

Innovation Point 2: Comprehensive On-Line Diagnostics:​ The module continuously performs self-diagnostics beyond simple signal reading. It can detect critical faults such as a loss of field power, open wiring (with properly configured supervised inputs), and internal circuit discrepancies. Any detected fault is immediately reported to the main processor and can trigger an alarm in the control room, enabling proactive maintenance. This diagnostic capability is essential for achieving and maintaining a high Safe Failure Fraction (SFF), a key metric in safety system reliability.

Innovation Point 3: Seamless Integration with Tricon TMR Architecture:​ The 3008​ is not a standalone device; it is optimized for the Tricon backplane. It communicates directly with the three independent main processors (A, B, C) of the Tricon controller. This deep integration ensures deterministic scanning and validation of input data across the entire TMR system. Its configuration, including parameters like de-bounce time and supervision settings, is managed entirely within the Tricon engineering software (TriStation), ensuring consistency and simplifying lifecycle management.

Application Cases and Industry Value:

Case 1: Offshore Platform Emergency Shutdown (ESD) System:​ An offshore oil production platform’s ESD system, built on a Tricon chassis, uses dozens of TRICONEX 3008​ modules. These modules monitor hundreds of field devices: shutdown valves’ limit switches, fire detection system outputs, manual emergency stops, and process switches. During a recent hurricane, a communication fault was reported on one input circuit of a 3008​ module monitoring a wellhead pressure switch. Due to the TMR design, the module continued to operate correctly using the two remaining healthy circuits, and the system remained fully functional. The diagnostics pinpointed the faulty circuit, allowing for a planned replacement during the next maintenance window without causing an unplanned production shutdown, demonstrating incredible availability and operational resilience.

Case 2: Chemical Plant Burner Management System (BMS):​ In a furnace controlling a critical chemical reaction, the BMS is responsible for safe start-up, monitoring, and shutdown. TRICONEX 3008​ modules are used to read the status of flame detectors, fuel valve position proofs, and purge airflow switches. The modules’ fast response and high diagnostic coverage ensure that any unsafe condition (like flame failure) is detected and acted upon with extreme reliability. The SIL 3 certification of the 3008​ module helps the entire BMS achieve the required safety integrity, protecting against catastrophic explosions and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Related Product Combination Solutions:

Tricon Main Processor Module (e.g., 3008’s host like a 3009 CPU):​ The central TMR controller that executes logic based on inputs from the 3008.

Tricon Communication Module (e.g., 4351B):​ Allows the Tricon system, including data from 3008​ modules, to communicate with a DCS or HMI.

Tricon Digital Output Module (e.g., 3625):​ Takes commands from the processor and acts on the process (e.g., closing a valve) based on logic triggered by 3008​ inputs.

Tricon Analog Input Module (e.g., 3503E):​ For reading 4-20mA signals from transmitters, used in conjunction with 3008​ discrete signals for comprehensive safety monitoring.

Triconex Power Supply (e.g., 8312):​ Provides highly reliable, redundant power to the chassis and all modules, including the 3008.

TriStation 1131 Software:​ The engineering, configuration, and programming environment for the entire Tricon system, including configuration of all 3008​ module parameters.

Field Devices:​ The sensors and switches (e.g., Namur proximity sensors, dry contacts, solid-state switches) that are wired to the 3008​ module’s channels.

Installation, Maintenance, and Full-Cycle Support:

Installation of the TRICONEX 3008​ must follow strict safety and procedural guidelines. The module is inserted into a designated slot in a powered-down (or hot-swappable, if supported) Tricon chassis. Field wiring is connected to its front-terminal block, with careful attention to proper grounding/shielding for noise immunity. Configuration, such as assigning each channel to a software variable and setting filtering parameters, is done within the TriStation 1131 project. A comprehensive functional test of all inputs, including forcing states and verifying logic responses, is mandatory before system commissioning.

Maintenance is heavily reliant on the module’s diagnostic capabilities. Regular review of diagnostic logs in the control system is the primary activity. The module is hot-swappable in most modern Tricon systems, allowing for replacement without shutting down the entire safety controller. The procedure typically involves placing the specific I/O bus in a secure state, replacing the module, and letting the system automatically recognize and integrate the new unit. It is critical to use a genuine, factory-configured TRICONEX 3008​ as a replacement. We supply the authentic module. Our technical support can assist with part number verification, compatibility checks with your Tricon chassis/software revision, and provide guidance on the hot-swap procedure to ensure a safe and compliant maintenance operation.

Contact us for the genuine TRICONEX 3008 digital input module and ensure the integrity and reliability of your critical safety instrumented system.