TRICONEX EPI3382‌ Enhanced Processor Interface module

The ‌TRICONEX EPI3382‌ is a high-availability Enhanced Processor Interface module designed for mission-critical safety instrumented systems (SIS) in hazardous environments. As part of the TriStation 3000 platform, the ‌EPI3382‌ provides triple modular redundant (TMR) architecture with 99.9999% availability, making it essential for emergency shutdown systems in oil & gas refineries. This module serves as the brain of Tricon v11 systems, offering hardware-based fault tolerance through synchronized 36 MHz triple processors.

Engineered for SIL 3 (Safety Integrity Level) compliance per IEC 61508, the ‌TRICONEX EPI3382‌ features advanced diagnostics with <5ms fault detection time, crucial for flare gas recovery units. Its galvanic isolation design withstands 2.5kV AC surges between channels, ensuring reliable operation in chemical plants with explosive atmospheres (ATEX Zone 1). The module’s backward compatibility allows seamless integration with legacy Tricon v9/v10 systems through dedicated adapter backplanes.

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Product Model	‌EPI3382‌
Manufacturer	TRICONEX
Product Type	Safety System Processor Module
Architecture	Triple Modular Redundant (TMR)
Processor Speed	36 MHz (triple synchronized)
I/O Capacity	64 digital / 32 analog points
Fault Detection Time	<5ms
Isolation Voltage	2500V AC between channels
Operating Temperature	-40°C to +70°C
Certifications	SIL 3, ATEX, IECEx, UL Class I Div 2
Power Requirements	24VDC ±10% (redundant inputs)
MTBF	150,000 hours
Dimensions	315x45x200mm (3U rack mount)
Weight	2.3kg

Key Features and Advantages:

Safety-critical performance: The ‌EPI3382‌’s TMR architecture executes three simultaneous processing streams, comparing results every 2ms to eliminate single-point failures in nuclear power plant safety controls. Its patented Voter Logic Modules (VLMs) automatically mask faulty signals without process interruption.

Advanced diagnostics: Built-in Health Monitor continuously checks 78 internal parameters, including memory parity errors and clock synchronization drift. Field-proven MTTF (Mean Time To Fail) of 200 years ensures reliability for offshore drilling blowout preventers.

Flexible integration: Supports HART 7 protocol pass-through for smart instrument diagnostics in LNG terminals. The module’s hot-swappable design allows replacement without shutdown in continuous process facilities.

Application Areas:

The ‌TRICONEX EPI3382‌ is deployed in:

‌Oil & Gas‌: Subsea emergency shutdown systems (ESD)
‌Chemicals‌: High-integrity pressure protection systems (HIPPS)
‌Power Generation‌: Turbine overspeed protection
‌Pharmaceutical‌: Sterilization process safety interlocks

In ethylene crackers, the module’s 0.1% voting mismatch tolerance prevents false trips during rapid pressure changes. Offshore platforms utilize its seawater corrosion-resistant chassis for fire & gas detection systems. The SIL 3 certification makes it ideal for managing reactor cooling in petrochemical complexes.

Installation and Maintenance:

Installation preparation: Verify chassis grounding resistance <1Ω before installing ‌EPI3382‌ in Class I Div 1 areas. Use TRICONEX-certified CAB-3E-3000 shielded cables for analog signal runs exceeding 15m.

Maintenance recommendations: Perform quarterly voter logic tests using TRISTATION diagnostics. Replace CMOS batteries every 5 years to maintain non-volatile memory integrity. Utilize online module diagnostics for predictive maintenance in continuous catalytic reforming units.

Product Assurance:

TRICONEX offers a 12-month extended warranty for EPI3382, including free firmware updates to meet safety requirements. Each module undergoes a 2000-hour aging test and a 50G operation vibration test (IEC 60068-2-6).