TRICONEX 4351B

Description

1. Product Description

2. Product Parameters

Parameter	Details
Module Type	Tricon Communication Module (TCM)
Communication Protocols	Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, TSAA (Tricon Security Protocol)
Interfaces	2x fiber-optic Ethernet ports (ST connectors), 4x RS-485 serial ports
Data Rate	100 Mbps (Ethernet), 115.2 kbps (serial)
Redundancy	Dual-redundant configuration (requires pairing with TRICONEX 4351A)
Safety Integrity Level	SIL 3 (IEC 61508 certified)
Power Supply	24V DC (18–30V DC input range, redundant power supported)
Power Consumption	Less than 20W (typical load)
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +85°C (storage: -40°C to +100°C)
Environmental Ratings	IP66/67 (dust and water ingress protection), vibration-resistant (2g, 5–500 Hz)
Certifications	ATEX, IECEx, CSA (hazardous areas), CE

TRICONEX 4351B

3. Advantages and Features

• Triple Modular Redundancy (TMR):
  The TRICONEX 4351B’s TMR architecture ensures high availability by detecting and isolating faults in real time. When used in a redundant pair with the 4351A, it achieves zero downtime during module replacement or failure, as proven in a chemical plant where it reduced communication-related shutdowns by 40%.
• Multi-Protocol Flexibility:
  Supporting multiple industrial protocols, the module eliminates the need for custom gateways. For example, it seamlessly connects Tricon safety systems with third-party PLCs and cloud platforms, enabling unified control and monitoring in complex industrial setups.
• Long-Distance and Immune Communication:
  Fiber-optic interfaces provide interference-free transmission over long distances, critical for large facilities like offshore rigs or refineries. The module’s 500V DC isolation protects against ground loops and voltage surges, ensuring stable data flow in electrically noisy environments.
• Security-Enhanced Design:
  The built-in TSAA (Tricon Security Authentication and Authorization) protocol encrypts data traffic, safeguarding against unauthorized access and meeting stringent cybersecurity standards for industrial control systems.

4. Application Areas and Application Cases

• Oil and Gas: Connects subsea wellhead controls to onshore SCADA systems, enabling remote monitoring of pressure, flow, and safety parameters in offshore platforms.
• Power Generation: Integrates gas turbine control systems with grid management software, facilitating real-time adjustments for optimal energy distribution in thermal and nuclear power plants.
• Chemical Processing: Bridges reactor safety systems with enterprise-level analytics platforms, allowing predictive maintenance and process optimization in petrochemical facilities.

5. Competition-related Comparison

• Higher Safety Certification: SIL 3 compliance, suitable for the most critical safety applications, whereas many alternatives offer only SIL 2.
• Extended Communication Range: Supports up to 10 km via fiber optics, surpassing standard modules that typically limit to 5–8 km.
• Robust Redundancy: TMR-enabled dual redundancy ensures continuous operation, outperforming non-redundant or single-failover designs.
• Integrated Security: Built-in TSAA protocol provides native cybersecurity, eliminating the need for external security layers.
  

  TRICONEX 4351B

6. Selection Suggestions

• System Compatibility:
  The TRICONEX 4351B is optimized for use with TRICONEX Tricon and Tricon CX systems. Verify compatibility with your existing control platform to leverage advanced diagnostic and redundancy features.
• Protocol Requirements:
  Choose this module if your application requires multi-protocol support (e.g., Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP) for integrating diverse devices. For simpler setups with fewer protocols, consider more basic communication modules.
• Safety and Environment:
  Ideal for environments requiring SIL 3 certification or operating in extreme temperatures (-40°C to +85°C). For non-hazardous, temperate settings, lower-cost options may be sufficient.
• Scalability:
  Suitable for large-scale systems needing long-distance, redundant communication. Pair with the 4351A module for full redundancy in mission-critical applications.

7. Precautions

• Installation:
  Power down the system before installing the module to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. Use shielded cables and follow grounding guidelines to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI).
• Fiber-Optic Handling:
  Ensure fiber-optic cables are installed within their minimum bend radius (30 mm) and connectors are clean to avoid signal loss. Use factory-approved cables for optimal performance.
• Maintenance:
  Regularly monitor module status via the TriStation 1131 software, checking for link errors, voltage fluctuations, or temperature anomalies. Replace faulty modules promptly to maintain redundancy.
• Firmware Management:
  Update firmware using official TRICONEX tools to access the latest security patches and protocol enhancements. Always back up system configurations before updates.