Description
- Model: 5501-467
- Brand: Woodward (USA)
- Series: MicroNet Digital Controller Series
- Core Function: High-voltage power supply for MicroNet Simplex control systems.
- Product Type: Simplex Power Supply Board
- Key Specs: 220 VAC/VDC Input | 180–264 VAC Range | Max 32A Output (5 VDC)
- Input Voltage: 220 VAC/VDC (High Voltage)
- Operating Range: 180–264 VAC (47–63 Hz)
- Max Output Current (5 VDC):
- 32.0 A @ 55 °C
- 28.0 A @ 60 °C
- 22.0 A @ 65 °C
- Hold Time: 7 ms @ 225 VDC (High Voltage DC)
- Max Input Power: 1250 VA (Plus Chassis) / 1062 VA (Simplex Chassis)
- Max Input Current: 6.7 A (Plus Chassis) / 5.9 A (Simplex Chassis)
- Wiring Requirement: 14 AWG (2.5 mm2) rated for 60 °C minimum
- Diagnostics: 4 Front Faceplate LEDs (OK, Input Fault, PS Fault, Overtemp)
- Altitude Limit: 4,000 m
- Sound Level: < 70 dBA
Application Scenarios & Pain Points
The 5501-467 is the primary power source for Woodward MicroNet systems used in turbine control and heavy industrial automation. In these environments, power stability isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a safety requirement. If the power board fails, the entire controller goes dark, which can lead to an unmanaged turbine trip. Because this board handles high-voltage AC/DC conversion, it is often the first component to suffer from thermal aging or electrical surges.
Typical Application Scenarios:
- Gas & Steam Turbine Control Providing the 5 VDC rail for the CPUs and I/O modules in Woodward MicroNet Simplex racks used in power generation.
- Compressor Surge Control Powering high-speed processing modules that protect massive centrifugal compressors from mechanical damage.
- Combined Cycle Power Plants Operating in MicroNet Plus or Simplex chassis to manage steam valves and fuel systems.
Engineering Case Study: The “Intermittent Fault” Mystery
Background: A utility plant in the Midwest reported that their MicroNet controller was rebooting randomly during hot summer afternoons. There were no obvious software errors in the log.
The Problem: Upon inspection, the “Overtemperature Fault” LED on the 5501-467 was flickering. The cooling fans in the rack were working, but the power supply was struggling to maintain the 5 VDC rail at 60 °C ambient cabinet temperature, causing the CPU to reset.
The Solution: We provided a replacement 5501-467 board. Before installation, we recommended the site check their 14 AWG wiring for oxidation, as poor connections increase heat at the terminal block.
Result: The new board was installed, and the “PS Fault” diagnostics showed a steady healthy state. The plant avoided a $200,000 unplanned outage by replacing the aging power board during a scheduled 2-hour maintenance window.
Compatible Replacement Models
| Original Model | Replacement Model | Compatibility | Key Differences | Change Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5501-467 | 5466-316 | ❌ Incompatible | Low Voltage DC Supply | Different wiring/Voltage |
| 5501-467 | 5501-466 | ⚠️ Software | 110 VAC version | Requires transformer change |
| 5501-467 | 5501-467 (Rev C/D) | ✅ Direct | Hardware Revision | Drop-in replacement |
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relation to 5501-467 | Quick Check | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OK LED Off | No Input / Internal Failure | ✅ High | Measure 220V at input terminals. | If power is there, replace board. |
| Input Fault LED On | Voltage out of range | ⚠️ Medium | Verify AC is between 180–264V. | Check upstream breaker/UPS. |
| PS Fault LED On | Converter Shutdown | ✅ High | Check for shorts on the 5V bus. | Clear short or replace board. |
| Overtemp LED On | Poor Airflow / Overload | ✅ High | Check chassis fans and load. | Reduce load or improve cooling. |
Engineer’s Pro-Tip: “When you’re swapping a 5501-467, pay attention to the chassis type. Even though it fits in a MicroNet Plus chassis, it only operates in Simplex mode. If you’re trying to use this in a redundant TMR setup, you’re looking at the wrong part number. Also, these boards are heavy (about 48 lbs when in the chassis)—don’t just pull it out without supporting the weight, or you might bend the backplane pins. If the ‘PS Fault’ LED comes on, try removing the I/O modules one by one to see if a shorted card is dragging down the supply before you assume the 5501-467 itself is dead.”
If you need the full MicroNet chassis wiring diagram or the current derating curves for high-altitude operation, I’ve got the Woodward 5501 manual ready—just let me know.
