The Woodward 2301 Series is a classic controller product line developed by Woodward, Inc. for diesel engines, gas engines, and turbomachinery. This series is widely used in power generation, marine propulsion, industrial manufacturing, and the oil and gas industry.

1. Overview of Core Functions

The primary functions of the Woodward 2301 Series controllers are load sharing and speed control. By precisely regulating the actuator, they control engine speed and power distribution.

• Load Sharing: In generator sets driven by multiple engines, ensures each unit carries an appropriate share of the load, preventing overload.
• Speed Control: Accurately maintains engine speed to accommodate varying load demands.
• Speed Control Modes: Supports three operating modes:
  • Isochronous: Speed remains constant while load varies.
  • Droop: Speed decreases as load increases; suitable for parallel operation.
  • Base Load: A base power level is set, and speed is adjusted accordingly.

2. Main Models and Technical Specifications

Below are some of the most representative models in the series and their key technical parameters:

a. Woodward 2301E / 2301D / 2301A (Common Versions)

These models are highly similar in functionality, with differences mainly in physical dimensions and specific industrial certifications.

Basic Specifications:

• Control Modes: Isochronous, Droop, Base Load
• Communication Interfaces: RS-232, RS-422, RS-485 (Modbus RTU)
• Power Supply: AC/DC 100–240 V (50/60 Hz)
• Operating Temperature Range: –40 °C to +85 °C
• Protection Rating: Typically IP54 or IP55

Function Terminals (2301E as an example):

Inputs:

• Speed Sensor (MPU): Speed signal input
• Power Sensor (CT/PT): Power signal input
• Analog Inputs: 4–20 mA or 0–10 V

Outputs:

• Actuator Drive: Supplies current to hydraulic or electric actuators (typically 1–5 A)
• Digital Outputs: Control valves or relays
• Analog Output: 4–20 mA signal (for indicators or displays)

b. Typical Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: Approx. 387.4 × 182.6 × 661.9 mm (varies slightly by model)
• Weight: Approx. 1.8 kg

3. Typical Applications

Thanks to its high reliability and flexibility, the Woodward 2301 Series is widely used in the following applications:

• Marine Propulsion: Parallel operation control of large main engines and generator sets
• Power Plants: Core control system for diesel generator sets, ensuring grid stability
• Oilfield Compressors: Power distribution and speed control for compressors
• Industrial Manufacturing: Power systems for production lines such as glass and steel plants

5. Summary

The Woodward 2301 Series is a true “evergreen” in the field of industrial control. Backed by decades of proven engineering experience, it has become an indispensable core component in power control systems.