• Brand: Emerson (EPRO / CSI)
• Model: A6500-RC
• Product Title: Emerson AMS 6500 ATG 16-Channel Relay Output Module
• Product Name: API 670 Machinery Protection Relay Module for Critical Rotating Equipment

A6500-RC

Product Description

Technical Specifications

• Product Series: AMS 6500 ATG Machinery Protection System
• Form Factor: Single-Slot Plugin Module (A6500-SR Rack)
• Relay Outputs: 16 channels, SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw)
• Digital Inputs: 66 channels
  • Logic Low (inactive): 0V to 3V
  • Logic High (active): 13V to 32V
  • Open circuit: Detected as inactive
  • Rated current: 1 mA / Rated power: 24 mW
• Relay Output Ratings:
  • Maximum voltage: 32V DC / 48V AC
  • AC1 load: 48V / 2A
  • DC1 load: 32V / 2A
  • DC-13 load: 24V / 1A
  • AC-15 load: 24V / 2A
  • Rated current: 2A / Rated power: 96W
• Response Time:
  • NO contact: 10 ms
  • NC contact: 13 ms
  • Logic processing time: None
• Power Supply: 24 VDC nominal (typical 18–36 VDC), ≤ 15W
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +60°C
• Humidity: 5–95% RH non-condensing
• Communication: Ethernet 10/100BASE-TX (RJ45), Modbus TCP for status/alarms
• Compliance: API 670, CE marking, RoHS

Key Features and Benefits

• 16-Channel High-Density Output: Provides 16 independent SPDT relay outputs in a single module slot, maximizing rack space utilization while covering multiple protection points.
• Flexible Boolean Logic Configuration: Any channel’s OK/Alert/Alarm signal can be selected as relay input. Users can apply Boolean logic operations and time delays to create customized protection schemes without external logic controllers.
• Graphical Configuration Software: The user-friendly software provides visual logic diagrams that guide users step-by-step through configuration, reducing commissioning time and minimizing configuration errors.
• Hardwired Trip Protection: Delivers direct hardwired relay outputs for emergency shutdown, ensuring fail-safe protection independent of higher-level control systems.
• Comprehensive Self-Diagnostics: Continuously monitors module health, power supply, and relay status, providing real-time fault indication and alarm lockout to prevent false trips.
• API 670 Compliance: Designed to meet the stringent requirements of the API 670 standard for machinery protection systems.

Application Areas

• Power Generation: Steam turbines, gas turbines, hydro turbines, and generators.
• Oil & Gas: Compressor trains, centrifugal and reciprocating pumps, expanders.
• Petrochemical & Refining: Critical process compressors, blowers, and high-speed fans.
• LNG & Pipelines: Booster compressors and pipeline pumping stations.
• Industrial Manufacturing: Large gearboxes, critical motors, and turbo-expanders.

Brand-Related Product Recommendations

• A6500-UM: Universal Measurement Card — the primary vibration and position monitoring module whose alarm signals feed into the A6500-RC.
• A6500-CC: Communication Card — provides Modbus TCP/IP, Modbus RTU, and OPC UA connectivity for the AMS 6500 rack.
• A6500-SR: System Rack — provides power supply and backplane connectivity for all A6500 modules.
• A6500-LC: LVDT Signal Conditioner Card — for LVDT sensor inputs used in position monitoring.
• AMS Machine Works / System 1 Software: Advanced condition monitoring software for predictive diagnostics and performance trending.

Installation and Maintenance

1. Rack Preparation: Ensure the A6500-SR system rack is properly installed, grounded, and powered.
2. Module Insertion: Align the A6500-RC module with the designated slot and slide it in until fully seated on the backplane.
3. Wiring: Connect the relay output wiring to the front-panel terminal block. Follow proper wiring practices for the intended load (AC or DC) and ensure correct polarity.
4. Configuration: Connect a laptop to the system via Ethernet and use the graphical configuration software to assign relay logic, set time delays, and map channel alarm signals to specific relay outputs.
5. Verification: Perform a functional test by simulating alarm conditions on the measurement modules and verifying that the correct relays actuate within the specified response time.

• Visual Inspection: Periodically check the module and terminal connections for signs of overheating, corrosion, or loose wiring.
• Relay Function Test: During scheduled outages, perform a controlled relay actuation test to verify that all 16 channels respond correctly to their configured logic inputs.
• Diagnostics Monitoring: Monitor the module’s status via Modbus TCP or the local display to detect any hardware faults or communication errors.
• Firmware Updates: Check for firmware updates from Emerson to ensure the module has the latest features and bug fixes.
• Preventive Replacement: For mission-critical applications, consider keeping a spare A6500-RC module on-site to minimize downtime in case of a failure.