Description
The Woodward 2301A Model 9903-327 is a versatile electronic load-sharing and speed control unit engineered for industrial prime movers such as diesel engines, gas engines, and small turbines. Offering configurable reverse or forward-acting control flexibility, it provides precise isochronous load sharing and speed governance across parallel generator sets. With an actuator output capability of up to 7.5 Vdc maximum, this controller ensures dependable fuel modulation and stable frequency performance under dynamic load variations in demanding industrial environments.
⚙️ Product Datasheet & Technical Parameters
• Brand: Woodward (2301A Series)
• Model Number: 9903-327
• Series: 2301A Load Sharing and Speed Control
• Product Name: Electronic Load Sharing and Speed Control Unit
• Origin: United States
• Production Status: Active / Industrial Standard
• Dimensions: Standard Sheet-Metal Chassis Panel Mount Configuration
• Weight: Approximately 1.4 kg
• Country of Origin: United States
• Power Consumption: 24 VDC (Nominal)
🔌 Operating Guidelines and Usage Methods
The 9903-327 is designed for panel integration within generator control cabinets or switchgear enclosures. Proper installation requires shielding and grounding all signal wiring, including magnetic pickup (MPU) speed sensor inputs and load-sharing interconnects, to prevent electrical noise and electromagnetic interference. Operators configure control action (forward or reverse), gain, reset, and speed range parameters using internal switches and front-accessible potentiometers. Ensure that synchronization and tie-line interlocks are thoroughly tested before engaging automatic generator loading and parallel tie lines.
🔄 Power-On and Power-Off Sequence
Power-On Sequence: First, verify all external wiring, actuator connections, MPU sensor lines, and parallel tie-line cabling. Next, energize the primary 24 VDC power supply to the unit. Allow internal circuits to stabilize and verify that operational status indicators show normal health. Once control readiness is confirmed, release the prime mover to start up, allowing it to accelerate smoothly from cranking speed to rated operational frequency under governor command.
Power-Off Sequence: First, safely transfer active electrical load away from the generator unit or open parallel tie breakers to prevent sudden load dumps on remaining systems. Next, command the prime mover to decelerate and shut down the fuel supply valves. Finally, cut off the 24 VDC operating power supply to the 2301A controller.
📝 Product Description and Operation Manual
The unit operates by continuously processing frequency input signals from a magnetic speed sensor, comparing them against internal frequency references to modulate the actuator output up to a maximum of 7.5 Vdc. In parallel operation, it utilizes an isolated load-sharing circuit that communicates via analog lines to divide active power equally among generators. Because it is accessible in both reverse and forward-acting configurations, technicians can easily adapt the unit to match specific prime mover actuator requirements. Front-accessible adjustments allow fine-tuning of speed trim, reset stability, and dynamic gain.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: How do I switch between forward-acting and reverse-acting modes?
A: The control mode is configured using internal circuit jumpers or switches located inside the unit during initial setup, allowing it to match direct or reverse-acting actuators.
Q: What is the significance of the 7.5 Vdc max actuator output?
A: It defines the upper voltage limit supplied to the actuator proportional to the fuel demand, ensuring compatibility with standard Woodward actuators.
Q: Are load-sharing lines sensitive to electrical noise?
A: Yes, load-sharing interconnects carry low-level analog signals and must be shielded and grounded properly to prevent load swings or instability between parallel generators.
Q: Can this unit operate on standalone generator sets?
A: Yes, while optimized for isochronous load sharing in parallel systems, it can also function effectively on single generator applications using droop or isochronous control.
🚀 Recommended Woodward 2301A Series Models
- 9900-430
- 9900-431
- 9900-432
- 9905-020
- 9905-021
- 9905-023
- 9905-025
- 9905-029
- 9905-031
- 9907-018


