WOODWARD 8402-319 8402-119 Digital speed controller
The Woodward 8402-319 and 8402-119 are advanced microprocessor-based digital speed controllers.
1 These modules are specifically engineered for the precise regulation of steam turbines, gas engines, and other industrial prime movers.
They are often part of the ProAct or EPG (Electrically Powered Governor) series architectures, serving as the “brain” that manages fuel delivery and speed stability.
Technical Parameter Table
| Parameter | Specification |
| Model Numbers | 8402-319 / 8402-119 |
| Control Type | Microprocessor-based PID Control |
| Input Voltage | 18–32 VDC (Nominal 24V) |
| Steady State Speed Band | ±0.1% of rated speed |
| Speed Range | 0 to 32,000 Hz (Magnetic Pickup input) |
| Output Signal | 4–20 mA or PWM (Actuator dependent) |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +70°C |
| Mounting | Panel Mount or DIN Rail |
| Dimensions | 160mm x 120mm x 65mm |
| Weight | Approx. 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) |
Related Models
These controllers are typically integrated with the following Woodward hardware:
ProAct II / IV Actuators: High-torque actuators used for throttle and fuel control.
Magnetic Pickups (MPUs): For sensing engine/turbine speed from the ring gear.
8290 Series EPG: Often used in smaller-scale electrically powered governor setups.
9907 Series: Various digital reference units or handheld programmers for configuration.
Application Cases
Steam Turbine Speed Control: Used in industrial power plants for high-precision governor control during load changes.
Gas Engine Power Generation: Regulating fuel admission to maintain a steady 50/60 Hz frequency in island or parallel mode.
Compressor Drives: Managing speed ramps and steady-state operation for centrifugal or reciprocating compressors.
Marine Engine Governors: Providing robust speed regulation for main propulsion or auxiliary generator sets on vessels.
Product Advantages and Features
Precise Speed Regulation: Utilizes advanced PID algorithms to maintain exceptionally stable speed, even under sudden load fluctuations.2
Programmable Ramps: Features adjustable acceleration and deceleration rates, ensuring smooth start-ups and shutdowns to protect mechanical components.3
Rugged Construction: Designed for “on-engine” or “near-engine” mounting, with high resistance to vibration and thermal stress.4
Flexible I/O: Supports multiple input types (MPU, proximity) and configurable outputs to drive various actuator models.
Safety Protection: Integrated failsafe functions, including overspeed alarm logic and loss-of-speed-signal protection.
Other Models in the Same Series
8402-320: High-voltage variant for specialized power systems.
8402-120: Complementary interface or specialized logic module.
8273-501: 2301D series load sharing and speed control.
8440-1703: easYgen series for more complex paralleling applications.
Introduction
The Woodward 8402-319 and 8402-119 represent a legacy of reliability in industrial digital speed control.
5 These microprocessor-based units are designed to replace older analog governors, offering significantly higher accuracy and easier field configuration.
By processing speed signals from magnetic pickups and executing high-speed control logic, they ensure that turbines and engines operate at peak efficiency with minimal wear.
Their compact design and wide operating temperature range make them the industry standard for both new installations and retrofits in the energy, marine, and oil & gas sectors.