TCM-2
May 12, 2026

TCM-2

Product Overview The TCM-2 is a heavy-duty, high-reliability thyristor control module designed and manufactured by DEIF A/S. It serves as a soft starter for asynchronous generators, enabling smooth and controlled connection to the grid, specifically engineered to withstand the harsh environmental conditions found in wind turbine applications.

Description

1. Product Overview

The TCM-2 is a heavy-duty, high-reliability thyristor control module designed and manufactured by DEIF A/S. It serves as a soft starter for asynchronous generators, enabling smooth and controlled connection to the grid, specifically engineered to withstand the harsh environmental conditions found in wind turbine applications.

2. Key Features

  • Robust Industrial Design: Built for extreme conditions (wind turbine nacelle environments).

  • Advanced RPM-Based Control: Unique double cut-in ramp reduces grid impact and protects the drivetrain.

  • High-Voltage Compatibility: Direct 3-phase 690 VAC voltage measurement.

  • High Precision: Class 0.5 accuracy for power, voltage, and current measurements.

  • Flexible Current Input: 1 A / 5 A CT selectable secondary.

  • Comprehensive Communication: EtherCAT, CAN, SSI, TCP/IP, RS-422/485 interfaces.

  • Extended Operating Temperature: –40 °C to +70 °C.

  • High Shock & Vibration Resistance: Designed for 50 g shock and 2.1 g vibration.

  • Open Software Platform: Linux-based, supports C/C++ and CODESYS (IEC 61131-3).

  • Fail-Safe Operation: Fault-tolerant file system and safe firmware updates.


3. Technical Specifications

3.1 General

ParameterSpecification
ModelTCM-2
ManufacturerDEIF A/S
TypeThyristor Control Module / Soft Starter
ApplicationAsynchronous generator grid connection (wind turbines)
Measurement AccuracyClass 0.5 (±0.5% FS)
Operating SystemLinux (fault-tolerant)
SoftwareC/C++, CODESYS (IEC 61131-3)

3.2 Input Ratings

ParameterSpecification
Voltage Input (Vn)3 × 690 VAC (L-L), direct
Current Input (In)1 A or 5 A (CT secondary, selectable)
Frequency50 / 60 Hz (45–65 Hz range)

3.3 Environmental & Mechanical

ParameterSpecification
Operating Temperature–40 °C to +70 °C (cold start capable)
Storage Temperature–40 °C to +85 °C
Humidity97% RH (condensing, 55 °C)
Altitude< 4,000 m
Vibration2.1 g (3.2–50 Hz); 1.0 g (13.2–100 Hz)
Shock50 g, 11 ms (half sine)
Bump25 g, 6 ms (half sine)
Protection ClassIP20 (terminals), IP40 (housing)
Dimensions (W×H×D)255 × 140 × 80 mm
WeightApprox. 2.5 kg
MountingPanel mount (4 × M5 screws)

3.4 Communication & I/O

InterfaceType
EtherCATFieldbus (real-time I/O)
CANCANopen / J1939
SSISynchronous Serial Interface (encoder)
TCP/IPEthernet (Modbus TCP)
RS-422/485Serial (Modbus RTU)
Digital Inputs4 × 24 VDC
Digital Outputs2 × Relay (250 VAC, 5 A)

3.5 Power Supply

ParameterSpecification
Auxiliary Supply24 VDC ±20%
Power Consumption≤ 20 W

4. Application Scope

  • Wind Turbines: Soft grid connection for doubly-fed or full-power converter asynchronous generators.

  • Industrial Generators: Standby/prime power asynchronous generator paralleling.

  • Marine Power Systems: Heavy-duty generator control for vessels and offshore platforms.

  • Grid Support: Reducing inrush current and grid voltage dip during generator start-up.


5. Installation & Wiring

5.1 Installation Requirements

  1. Mounting: Install vertically on a rigid panel (4 × M5 screws).

  2. Clearance: Allow ≥50 mm clearance on all sides for ventilation.

  3. Environment: Avoid direct sunlight, dust, moisture, and corrosive gases.

  4. ESD Protection: Discharge static before handling (PCB is ESD-sensitive).

5.2 Terminal Wiring

5.2.1 Power & Measurement Inputs

TerminalDescription
L1/L2/L33-phase voltage input (up to 690 VAC)
CT1/CT2/CT3Current transformer inputs (1 A / 5 A)
+24V/GND24 VDC auxiliary power supply

5.2.2 Communication Ports

PortDescription
ETHEtherCAT / TCP/IP (Ethernet)
CANCAN bus (CANopen)
SSIEncoder input (speed feedback)
RS485Modbus RTU (serial)

5.2.3 Digital I/O

TerminalDescription
DI1–DI4Digital inputs (24 VDC)
DO1–DO2Relay outputs (250 VAC, 5 A)

5.3 Wiring Notes

  • High Voltage: Only qualified electricians may install/service. Disconnect all power before wiring.

  • CT Wiring: Never open-circuit CT terminals (risk of lethal high voltage).

  • Cable Size: 2.5 mm² (power circuits); 1.5 mm² (control/communication).

  • Terminal Torque: Tighten to 1.2–1.5 Nm.

  • Shielding: Use shielded cable for communication; ground shield at both ends.


6. Operation & Configuration

6.1 Front Panel Indicators

  • PWR: Solid green = 24 VDC supply OK.

  • RUN: Flashing green (1 Hz) = normal operation.

  • FAULT: Solid red = system fault (overtemperature, overcurrent, communication error).

  • READY: Solid yellow = unit ready for generator cut-in.

6.2 Configuration Steps (DEIF PC Tool)

  1. Connect: Use Ethernet cable to connect TCM-2 to PC.

  2. Install: Download and install DEIF TCM-2 Configuration Tool (free from www.deif.com).

  3. Connect to Device: Select TCM-2 from the device list.

  4. Set Parameters:

    • Generator Data: Rated power, voltage, current, speed.

    • Cut-In Ramp: Configure RPM-based double ramp (rise time, slope, delay).

    • Protection Limits: Overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, overtemperature.

    • Communication: Set EtherCAT/CAN/Modbus addresses and baud rates.

  5. Write Config: Download settings to TCM-2.

  6. Verify: Start generator; check READY LED and communication status.

6.3 Normal Operation

  1. Generator Run-Up: TCM-2 monitors generator speed and voltage.

  2. Cut-In Initiation: At predefined RPM, soft start sequence begins.

  3. Double Ramp Control: Thyristors gradually increase voltage to grid, limiting inrush current.

  4. Grid Synchronization: Smooth transition to full grid voltage; thyristors bypassed.

  5. Fault Monitoring: TCM-2 continuously monitors for faults; triggers alarm/trip if detected.


7. Safety Precautions

  • High Voltage Hazard: The unit operates with up to 690 VAC. Only qualified electricians may install or service.

  • Lethal CT Voltage: Never open-circuit CT terminals.

  • Overload Protection: Do not exceed rated voltage/current limits.

  • Environmental Limits: Operate only within –40 °C to +70 °C.

  • No Unauthorised Modification: Do not open the enclosure; voids warranty.

  • Emergency Shutdown: Use external emergency stop button to disconnect power in case of fault.


8. Maintenance

8.1 Regular Maintenance (Every 12 Months)

  1. Visual Inspection: Check for loose terminals, damaged wiring, or discolouration.

  2. Cleaning: Remove dust from vents with compressed air (low pressure).

  3. Terminal Tightness: Retorque to 1.2–1.5 Nm.

  4. Communication Test: Verify all communication interfaces.

  5. Protection Test: Simulate fault conditions to verify alarm/trip functionality.

  6. Insulation Resistance: Measure ≥1 MΩ @ 500 VDC between power circuits and ground.


9. Troubleshooting

Fault PhenomenonPossible CauseSolution
PWR LED OffNo 24 VDC supply / wrong polarityCheck wiring; verify supply voltage.
FAULT LED OnOvertemperature / Overcurrent / CT openCheck ambient temp; reduce load; check CT wiring.
READY LED OffGenerator speed/voltage out of rangeAdjust generator excitation; check speed sensor.
No Grid ConnectionCut-in ramp misconfigurationVerify ramp settings in PC tool.
Communication LossWrong address / cable faultCheck wiring; verify communication parameters.

10. Warranty & Disclaimer

  • Model: TCM-2 Thyristor Control Module.

  • Warranty Period: 24 months from delivery (normal installation/use per manual).

  • Warranty Exclusions: Misuse, overvoltage, lightning, water ingress, unauthorised modification, or CT open-circuit.

  • Specifications Subject to Change: Manufacturer reserves the right to update specifications without notice.



Get a Quote