Description

The HIMA F35 is a highly specialized, fail-safe CPU module from the Planar4 series. It’s a processor designed specifically for safety-critical applications in industrial automation, serving as the central processing unit (CPU) for HIMA’s safety-related programmable logic controllers (PLCs). The F35 is not a standard controller; it’s a safety PLC processor built on a redundant 1-out-of-2 (1oo2) architecture. This means it has two identical processors that continuously check each other’s work. This design ensures that if one processor fails, the system immediately detects the fault and enters a safe state. This is crucial for protecting people, assets, and the environment in high-risk industries. The primary role of the HIMA F35 is to execute safety logic with high speed and reliability, making it a cornerstone for emergency shutdown systems (ESD), fire and gas (F&G) systems, and other safety instrumented systems (SIS).

F35 HIMA

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

The HIMA F35 stands out in the safety automation world because of its robust and fault-tolerant 1oo2 architecture. This isn’t just about having a backup; it’s about active, continuous self-monitoring. The two processors run the same program simultaneously and compare results at every step. If they don’t match, the module knows there’s an internal fault and puts the system into a pre-defined safe state. This ensures a level of integrity and reliability that a single-processor PLC cannot provide.

Another significant advantage of the F35 is its high-speed execution of safety-critical functions. In an emergency shutdown scenario, every millisecond counts. The F35 is optimized for speed, ensuring a rapid response to trip conditions. Furthermore, its hardware is built to withstand harsh industrial environments, with a wide operating temperature range and resistance to vibration and shock. This reliability is why the F35 has been trusted for years in the most demanding applications.

Application Field

The HIMA F35 is used in industries where a failure could lead to severe consequences. In the oil and gas industry, it’s a key component of emergency shutdown systems (ESD) on offshore platforms and in refineries, protecting against gas leaks, overpressure, and other critical events. In chemical plants, it manages safety loops for reactors and process equipment to prevent runaway reactions. The F35 is also deployed in the power generation sector for boiler protection, turbine control, and other critical functions. Its robust design and high safety integrity level also make it suitable for applications in the mining industry, managing the safety of conveyors and ventilation systems.

Related Products

HIMatrix Series: A newer, more powerful safety controller family that has largely replaced the Planar4 series and the HIMA F35.

HIMA F3330: A safety CPU module from the HIMatrix series, offering similar functionality to the F35 but with enhanced features and performance.

HIMA F6208: A power supply module for the Planar4 system, providing power to the F35.

HIMA F85: A digital I/O module from the Planar4 series that works with the F35.

HIMA F60: An older generation CPU module that predates the F35.

F35 HIMA

Installation and Maintenance

Installation prepartion: Before you install the F35, you must first de-energize the Planar4 backplane to avoid any electrical hazards. The F35 module is designed to be easily inserted into the designated CPU slot. Ensure it is firmly seated and that the connections are secure before powering up the system. It’s also critical to ensure proper grounding to minimize the risk of electrical interference.

Maintenance recommendations: The F35 is a low-maintenance component. Its internal diagnostics constantly monitor its health, and any issues will be flagged by LEDs on the front panel and through the engineering software. The key to maintenance is proactive monitoring of these diagnostic indicators. You should also periodically check the surrounding environment for excessive dust or moisture. If a fault is detected, the F35‘s design allows for relatively quick replacement, which helps minimize downtime.