The Woodward Flex500 is a new-generation digital control for turbine, engine, and compressor applications, built on a rugged industrial hardware platform with a deterministic real-time operating system. It is available in Front Panel Mount (with integrated HMI) and Rear Panel Mount versions, and can be configured for Simplex or Dual-Redundant operation for critical applications requiring high availability and on-line program changes.
Designed to function as a distributed control system, the Flex500 expands with Woodward RTCnet and LINKnet HT distributed I/O modules, and its four Ethernet and four CAN ports integrate with plant DCS architectures over Modbus TCP, OPC, and CANopen protocols.
Key Features
- Deterministic real-time control with I/O scan rates as fast as 5 ms
- Optional integrated 8-inch HMI front panel — engineering station and operator control panel in one
- Simplex or dual-redundant configurations with on-line program changes
- Expandable I/O via RTCnet and LINKnet HT distributed modules
- 4 Ethernet ports and 4 CAN ports; Modbus TCP, OPC, and serial RS-232/RS-485 communications
- Programmed in Woodward’s GAP environment; applications validated with NetSim simulation
- On-board I/O: 2 MPU and 2 proximity speed inputs, 8 analog inputs, 20 contact inputs
- 2 actuator driver outputs (4–20 mA or 20–200 mA), 6 analog outputs, 8 relay outputs
- Certified for hazardous locations (CSA Class I Div 2; ATEX/IECEx Zone 2)
- Sulfur-resistant conformal coating on all modules
- Achilles cybersecurity certified
- Marine type approvals: Lloyd’s Register and DNV-GL
Applications
The Flex500 is purpose-built for prime-mover control and protection. It mounts in a plant control room or in a cabinet next to the machine, and operates from −40 to +70 °C (bulkhead mount).
- Steam turbines
- Gas turbines
- Gas and diesel engines
- Compressor control and protection
- Hydro turbines
Drake Controls Services
As an authorized Woodward distributor, Drake Controls supplies Flex500 controllers and spares from stock, engineers and builds complete Flex500-based control panels, develops application software in GAP, and commissions and supports systems in the field — backed by 24/7 emergency response.
