Thermon Español TC 1818a

TC 1818a
Control Module
Operating Guide
SWM-015.5
Esta guía está destinada únicamente para el uso por parte de los
propietarios del calor Thermon HeatChek TM
unidades de seguimiento y control de seguimiento. Este manual
describe la operación para
Controladores TC 1818 con firmware lanzado en 2010. Versiones
anteriores de firmware
puede no incluir todas las características descritas en este manual.
Este manual es considerado
propiedad y está protegido por derechos de autor. Uso por otros sin
expresar
el consentimiento por escrito de Thermon está estrictamente
prohibido.
© Thermon 1999, 2005, 2008, 2010
HeatChek y TraceView son nombres comerciales de Thermon
Manufacturing Company
HeatChek and TraceView are tradenames of Thermon Manufacturing Company.

TC 1818a
Control Module
INDEX
ÍNDICE
El módulo TC 1818a .............................................. ...................... 4
TC 1818a Especificaciones del módulo .............................................. 8
Control HeatChek típico y

Unidades de monitoreo ................................................ ................ 9
Programación El TC 1818a .............................................. ............. 10
El TC 1818a en funcionamiento ............................................. ........ 37
Configurando el TC 1818a para Ambiente

Control de detección o doble RTD ............................................. ..... 51
Programación y operación del TC 1818a en

un modo de control de detección ambiental ...................................... 55
Programación y operación del TC 1818a con

RTD de entrada doble para un solo circuito de control ......................... 60
Aplicaciones típicas de control ............................................... ....... 62
Comunicaciones ................................................. ........................ 71
Opciones y accesorios ............................................... ................... 72
Ayuda ................................................. ..................................... 73
Adjunto A: TC 1818a Diagrama de flujo de comandos

TC 1818a
TC 1818a Control
Module
EL MÓDULO TC 1818a
El TC 1818a es un módulo de control y monitoreo de temperatura basado en
microprocesador
desarrollado específicamente para el trazado de calor. El módulo de multicircuito
puede proporcionar el trazado de calor
control, pantalla de información digital y alarmas para alta temperatura, baja
temperatura, alta
corriente, baja corriente, alta corriente de fuga a tierra, falla del circuito y
temperatura dañada
sensor para hasta dieciocho circuitos de trazado de calor. Temperatura mínima y
máxima reiniciables
Las características vistas se conservan para mostrar a pedido.
El módulo TC 1818a funciona de manera independiente y también se puede
conectar a un dato
autopista para las funciones de comunicación de sistemas remotos a través de una
computadora personal o una
sistema de control distribuido (DCS
4
VISUALIZACIÓN DE DATOS
El módulo TC 1818a utiliza una pantalla de cristal líquido (LCD) retroiluminada para
informar
peraturas, corrientes y otros parámetros de operación. LED de alarma junto con el
la pantalla de información indica alta temperatura, baja temperatura, alta
corriente del calentador, bajo
corriente del calentador, fuga a tierra alta, falla del sensor y estado de alarma de
falla del circuito. Adicional
Los LED indican el estado de la alimentación al TC 1818a, la potencia a los circuitos
de trazado del calor, la CPU
estado y el estado de alarma del controlador general.
ENTRADA DE DATOS
El TC 1818a tiene un teclado con interruptor de membrana de 16 teclas con "tacto
táctil" que proporciona
modificación (con acceso a la clave de seguridad) de todos los parámetros de
control y permite consultas
en el estado de cualquier circuito controlado o monitoreado.
RELÉ DE ALARMA
El módulo TC 1818a está provisto de tres dispositivos independientes normalmente
abiertos, cerca de
alarma, contactos de relé de alarma de estado sólido, clasificados 1A a 120/240
VAC. El primero de estos
relés se activa en caso de alarma. El segundo contacto de relé se activa cuando
se producen alarmas designadas "viaje". La operación de modo inverso en
cualquiera de estas alarmas también es
configurable El tercer contacto de alarma proporciona información sobre el estado
de
módulo de diagnóstico de CPU.
RELÉ DE CONTROL
El módulo TC 1818a se puede configurar con hasta dieciocho salidas de CC, cada
una con un receptor
capacidad actual de 100 mA a 24 VDC para la conmutación de hasta 18 relés de
potencia de estado sólido.
MÓDULO DE POTENCIA
El módulo TC 1818a es convertible de voltaje de instrumento de 120 VAC a 208 / a
240 VCA
(50 a 60 HZ) desde un interruptor selector deslizante.
COMUNICACIONES
Cada módulo TC 1818a cuenta con un puerto de comunicaciones RS-485 para la
conexión
a través de una red de pares apantallados trenzados de dos hilos en una PC. El
ASCII o RTU de Modbus
El protocolo a 9600 velocidades de transmisión en baudios también se puede
interconectar en el
sistema de control distribuido (DCS).
MÓDULO DE ENTRADA / SALIDA INTERLINK
Cada TC 1818a se puede interconectar con hasta tres módulos de entrada de sensor
de seis puntos y
tres seis módulos de salida de potencia de circuito a través de conexiones de cable
plano.
El TC 1818a está diseñado para ser una parte integral de un control y monitoreo de
HeatChek TM
unidad . Cada unidad incluye típicamente uno o más módulos TC 1818a, módulos
de salida de potencia,
y módulos de entrada de sensores, todos los cables de conexión y cables de
conexión, y un cable eléctrico
recinto adecuado para el medio ambiente.
MÓDULOS DE SALIDA DE ENERGÍA
Cada módulo de salida de potencia TC 1818a está configurado con seis relés de
potencia de estado sólido. los
Un solo conmutador Los relés SSR30 utilizados tienen un estado sólido de cruce
cero con un aumento de ciclo único
capacidad de 600A y una capacidad de sobreintensidad de un segundo de 80A. El
interruptor dual SSR15
Los relés tienen un estado sólido de cruce cero con una capacidad de sobrevoltaje
de ciclo único de 500 A y uno
segunda capacidad de sobrecorriente de 80A. Diseñar los límites de clasificación
actuales para esta salida de potencia
los módulos están determinados por el tipo de relé, el tamaño del gabinete, las
condiciones ambientales y el calor
estilo de fregadero (máximo de 30 A por cada interruptor de relé y 15 A por cada
interruptor en un doble
interruptor de relé). Ver la Tabla 1 para más detalles.
Cada módulo de salida de potencia se proporciona completo con bloques de
terminales de entrada / salida para
hasta seis circuitos de trazado de calor, cable de cinta de hasta 15 pies (4,6 m) de
longitud, conectores para
vinculación al módulo de control TC 1818a, y una cubierta de policarbonato "táctil
segura"
montaje de ing.
Table 1: Corriente total

máxima del calentador
A través de relés de
estado sólido Por recinto
Disipador de Disipador de
Opción de caja
calor estilo C calor estilo
6SSR30C 6SSR15C
PS4, SS4 360A 180A
PS5, SS5 576A 288A

• Las clasificaciones actuales se basan en ambientes al aire libre de 104 ° F (40 ° C) con carga solar. Contacta el
fábrica para clasificaciones en condiciones ambientales más altas o para clasificaciones en tamaños de gabinetes más
grandes.
• El 6SSR30C incluye seis relés de estado sólido de interruptor único adecuados para controlar hasta 30 am-
peres por interruptor.
• El 6SSR15C incluye seis relés de estado sólido de doble interruptor adecuados para controlar hasta 15 amperios
por interruptor.
UNIDAD DE CONTROL Y MONITOREO
Una unidad de control y monitoreo HeatChek que utiliza el módulo TC 1818a, relé
de estado sólido
módulos de salida de potencia, módulos de entrada de sensores y un gabinete
NEMA 4 o 4X son aptos para
probado / certificado para uso en Clase I, División 2 Peligroso (clasificado) y
Ordinario
Ubicaciones (no clasificadas).
Estas unidades incluyen las siguientes marcas de advertencia:
CAUTION! CIRCUITS MAY BE ENERGIZED
Esta marca pretende que el usuario debe desconectar todas las fuentes de
alimentación al panel antes
al servicio.
Esta marca indica una ubicación que debe estar conectada a tierra de acuerdo con
requisitos nacionales.
Módulo de control TC 1818a
ESPECIFICACIONES DEL MÓDULO TC 1818A

El módulo TC 1818a tiene las especificaciones generales que se detallan a
continuación:
Capacidad de control y monitoreo: dieciocho circuitos de rastreo de calor

resistivo de hasta 30 amperios por circuito (dependiendo del tipo de interruptor)
Voltaje de suministro del módulo: 110-120 VAC o 208-240 VCA
Frecuencia de operación: 50 a 60 Hz Nominal
Consumo de energía : 40 vatios por módulo TC 1818a
Ambiente de funcionamiento del módulo: -40 o F a +140 o F (-40 o C a +60 o C)
Ambiente de almacenamiento máximo: 158 o F (70 o C)
Retención de datos: EEPROM no volátil
Función Power Clamp: programable para niveles de potencia de 20 a

100% de potencia máxima
Entrada: hasta dieciocho 3 cables 100 ohmios a 32 o F (0 o C)

platino RTD
Rango de temperatura (control): -40 o F a 932 o F (-40 o C a 500 o C) con

programa-banda de control mable en incrementos de un grado
Control: encendido-apagado, encendido-apagado con arranque suave,
proporcional,
Autoajuste proporcional.
Dimensiones del módulo (114 mm x 482 mm x 191 mm)
Alarma de corriente de funcionamiento alta: 1.0 a 30.0 A

Bajo: de 0.0 a 30.0 A
Alarma de fuga a tierra / Disparo: 30 a 150 mA
Frecuencia de autocomprobación: programable de 2 a 99 horas

UNIDADES TÍPICAS DE CONTROL Y MONITOREO DE HEATCHEK
El TC 1818a tiene una construcción modular y se puede configurar en una variedad
de HeatChek unidades de control y monitoreo
INFORMACIÓN
Puede encontrar información adicional de diseño e ingeniería en
Formulario T-1008-E.
El cableado específico y los detalles de la disposición del equipo generalmente se

proporcionan en los dibujos en incluido en la unidad de control y monitoreo de
HeatChek al momento del envío.
PROGRAMACIÓN DEL MÓDULO TC 1818A
ACCEDER AL MODO DEL PROGRAMA
Gire la llave a la posición vertical y luego presione la tecla PROG para ingresar al
programa modo ming
PROG
El TC 1818a mostrará el siguiente mensaje:
PROGRAM MODE ENABLED

SELECT FUNCTION KEY
Luego seleccione la tecla de función deseada (p. Ej., MANTENER TEMP).
MAINTAIN
TEMP
Si la tecla de función no es una función global (p. Ej., CONFIG, DATA HWY, etc.),
entonces la siguiente a aparece un mensaje de lowing
PROGRAM CIRCUIT=1
Seleccione el circuito deseado presionando las teclas de flecha HACIA

ARRIBA o HACIA ABAJO y luego presionando la tecla ENTER.
Para establecer todos los circuitos en un valor común, presione la tecla de flecha
ARRIBA hasta que "TODO EL SAME VALUE "aparece.
PROGRAM = ALL THE SAME

VALUE
Presione ENTER para configurar globalmente un control o parámetro de operación.

MANTENGA LA TEMPERATURA (MODO DEL PROGRAMA)
El siguiente es un mensaje típico que podría aparecer:
MAINTAIN TEMP=104°F NEW

VALUE=104°F
Presionar momentáneamente las teclas de flecha HACIA ARRIBA o HACIA ABAJO hará
que el NUEVO VALOR cambie por incrementos de 1 grado Manteniendo presionada
la tecla se produce un cambio incremental de 10 grados.
Si se alcanza un límite superior o inferior, aparecerá un mensaje MAX o MIN en el
segundo línea. Esto indica que se ha alcanzado el valor máximo o mínimo absoluto
o que el valor ha alcanzado un valor de alarma.

VALUE=50°F
Una vez que se establece el valor de temperatura deseado, presione la tecla ENTER
para guardar el valor.
El controlador saldrá del modo de programación y regresará al modo de escaneo
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

ALARMA DE ALTA TEMPERATURA (MODO PROGRAMA)
Presionando la tecla de función HIGH TEMP ALARM resulta en un mensaje de

visualización como el siguiendo:
HIGH TEMP
ALARM
HIGH TEMP ALARM=160°F NEW

VALUE=160°F
El TC 1818a está configurado para activar la alarma a 160 o F en el número de

circuito actual. Debería el control la temperatura alcance los 160 o F, el LED rojo
"ALARM ON" en el TC 1818a comenzará a flash y el LED "HIGH TEMP" se iluminará
cuando el circuito en alarma aparezca en el PANTALLA DE INFORMACIÓN. Además,
el contacto del relé de alarma se cerrará (dependiendo de configuración, acción
inversa puede ocurrir).
Para cambiar el valor actual, presione las teclas de flecha ARRIBA o ABAJO para
aumentar o disminuir el punto de ajuste de ALARMA DE ALTA TEMPERATURA actual.
HIGH TEMP ALARM=160°F NEW

VALUE=120°F
Una vez que se establece el valor de temperatura deseado, presione la tecla ENTER
para guardar el valor.
A continuación, aparecerá el siguiente mensaje típico:
2 HIGH TEMP SEEN=200°F RESET?

(Y/N)
En algún momento desde que este controlador fue reseteado por última vez,
la temperatura ha alcanzado 200 ° F.
Presione la tecla ARRIBA y ENTER para borrar este valor y comenzar

nuevamente con el valor actual.
Al presionar la tecla ENTER o PROG se conserva el valor actual de 200 ° F.

Posteriormente, el TC 1818a vuelve al modo de escaneo.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

LOW TEMPERATURE ALARM (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the LOW TEMP ALARM function key results in a display message such
as the following:
LOW TEMP
ALARM
LOW TEMP ALARM=50°F NEW

VALUE=50°F
The TC 1818a is set to alarm at 50oF on the current circuit number. Should the
control temperature drop to 50oF, the "ALARM ON" LED on the TC 1818a will begin
to flash and the "LOW TEMP" LED will illuminate when the circuit in alarm
appears on the INFORMATION DISPLAY. In addition, the alarm relay contact will
close (depending on configuration, inverse action may occur).
To change the present value, press the UP or DOWN arrow keys to increase or
decrease the present LOW TEMP ALARM setpoint.Once the desired temperature value
is set, press the ENTER key to save the value.
LOW TEMP ALARM=50°F NEW

VALUE=35°F
Next, the following typical message will appear:
2 LOW TEMP SEEN=40°F RESET?

(Y/N)
At some point since this controller was last reset, the control temperature has
dropped to 40°F. Pressing the ENTER key results in the present value of 40°F being
retained. Press the UP arrow key and ENTER to clear the stored value and begin
anew at the current value.
Subsequently, the TC 1818a returns to the Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

HEATER CURRENT (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the HEATER CURRENT key (when the TC 1818a is configured with solid
state relays and is set for On-Off with Soft Start, Proportional, or Proportional with
Self-Adjust) results in a display message as typically given below:
HEATER
CURRENT
POWER AT MAINT TEMP=22%

NEW VALUE=22%
In this case, the power clamp function is currently in the active or enabled
mode. In this mode, the TC 1818a will (through the zero crossing solid state relay
provided) use cycle omission techniques to limit the maximum power available to
the heater to the value shown (to some value less than the heater would ordinarily
provide) at the temperature control setpoint. For more details, refer to pages 27
and 28.
Pressing the ENTER key will retain the current mode of operation. Pressing the
UP or DOWN arrow key and pressing ENTER will result in the altering of the
power percentage and hence result in the limiting of heater power when "ON" at
the temperature control setpoint.
The TC 1818a will now return to Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE
The TC 1818a is provided with a built-in "Soft Start" power up feature when
configured in the On-Off with Soft Start, Proportional, or Proportional Self-Adjust
modes. This feature will utilize cycle omission techniques to ramp up to maximum
allowable heater power in a span of approximately 5.5 minutes. This ramp up feature
is designed to specifically address a) cold start power surges associated with self
limiting and power limiting heaters, and b) minimize overshoot which may
sometimes be present when utilizing high output heaters in low heat loss
applications.
Should the TC 1818a be configured in the On-Off mode, no programming
functions such as Power Clamping are available. In addition, no "Soft Start"
control functions will be active.
GROUND CURRENT (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the GROUND CURRENT function key results in a display message such as
the following:
GROUND
CURRENT
GROUND CURRENT ALARM=40mA

NEW VALUE=40mA
The TC 1818a is set to alarm at heater and associated wiring ground leakage
current of 40mA on the chosen circuit number. Should the ground leakage value
reach 40mA, the "ALARM ON" LED on the TC 1818a will begin to flash and the
"GROUND CURRENT" LED will illuminate when the circuit in alarm appears on
the INFORMATION DISPLAY. In addition, the alarm relay contact will close
(depending on configuration, inverse action may occur).
To change the value, press the UP or DOWN arrow keys to increase or
decrease the GROUND CURRENT ALARM setpoint.
GROUND CURRENT ALARM=40mA

NEW VALUE=30mA
Once the desired new value is set, press the ENTER key to save the
value. Subsequently, the TC 1818a returns to the Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

HIGH CURRENT ALARM (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the HIGH CURRENT ALARM function key results in a display message such
as the following:
HIGH
CURRENT
ALARM
HIGH CURRENT ALARM=20.0A NEW

VALUE=20.0A
The TC 1818a is set to alarm at heater current levels above 20 Amperes on the
present circuit number. Should the heater current reach 20A, the "ALARM ON"
LED on the TC 1818a will begin to flash and the "HIGH CURRENT" LED will
illuminate when the circuit in alarm appears on the INFORMATION DISPLAY. In
addition, the alarm relay contact will close (depending on configuration, inverse
action may occur).
To change the value, press the UP or DOWN arrow keys to increase or decrease
the HIGH CURRENT ALARM setpoint.
HIGH CURRENT ALARM=20.0A NEW

VALUE=25.0A
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

LOW CURRENT ALARM (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the LOW CURRENT ALARM function key results in a display message such
as the following:
LOW
CURRENT
ALARM
LOW CURRENT ALARM=1.0A NEW

VALUE=1.0A
The TC 1818a is set to alarm at heater current levels below 1 Ampere. Should the
heater current drop to 1A, the "ALARM ON" LED on the TC 1818a will begin to
flash and the "LOW CURRENT" LED will illuminate when the circuit in alarm
appears on the INFORMATION DISPLAY. In addition, the alarm relay contact will
close (depending on configuration, inverse action may occur).
To change the value, press the UP or DOWN arrow keys to increase or decrease
the LOW CURRENT ALARM setpoint.
LOW CURRENT ALARM=1.0A NEW

VALUE=2.0A
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

CONFIG (PROGRAM MODE)
The CONFIG key provides access to setting all global control parameters on the TC
1818a. Pressing the CONFIG key results in the following display prompt:
RTD FAULT TURNS CKT ON

CHANGE? (Y/N)
A "Yes" entry will result in an "Open" relay condition in the event of a RTD sensor
failure. Press the UP arrow key for "Yes" or DOWN arrow key for "No." Then
press the ENTER key to save. A "No" entry will result in a "Closed" relay
condition in the event of a RTD sensor failure. Subsequently, the TC 1818a
follows with the below message on the information display:
GROUND CURRENT TRIP OFF

CHANGE? (Y/N)
The TC 1818a is currently set to NOT trip the heater circuits if a high ground
leakage condition occurs, but rather will only "flash" the "ALARM ON" LED and
close the standard alarm relay (open in inverse operation).
To retain the present mode of GROUND CURRENT TRIP operation, press the
ENTER key. Pressing the UP arrow key and ENTER will result in the TC 1818a
setting being changed to GROUND CURRENT TRIP ON.
The TC 1818a will then prompt for the preferred HIGH CURRENT trip setting.
HIGH CURRENT TRIP OFF CHANGE?

(Y/N)
The TC 1818a is currently set to NOT trip the heater circuits if a high heater current
alarm condition occurs, but rather will only "flash" the "ALARM ON" LED and close
the standard alarm relay (open in inverse operation).
To retain the present mode of HIGH CURRENT ALARM operation, press the ENTER
key. Pressing the UP arrow key and ENTER will result in the TC 1818a setting
being changed to HIGH CURRENT TRIP ON.
Once set in this manner, the heater circuits will trip (open heater relay contacts)
should a heater current alarm condition occur. The TC 1818a will now require that
the operator 1) press the ACKNOWLEDGE key, 2) and the high current alarm
condition be cleared prior to automatic control being restored.
The TC 1818a next prompts for the HIGH TEMP ALARM trip setting.
HIGH TEMP TRIP OFF CHANGE?

(Y/N)
The TC 1818a is currently set to NOT trip the heater circuits if a high
temperature alarm condition is reached, but rather to only "flash" the "ALARM
ON" LED and close the standard alarm relay (open in inverse operation).
To retain the present mode of HIGH TEMP ALARM operation, press the ENTER
key. Pressing the UP arrow key and ENTER will result in the TC 1818a setting
being changed to HIGH TEMP TRIP ON.
Once set in this manner, the heater circuits will trip (open heater relay contacts)
should a high temperature alarm condition occur. The TC 1818a will now require that
the operator
1) press the ACKNOWLEDGE key, 2) and the high current alarm condition be
cleared prior to automatic control being restored.
The TC 1818a is provided with On-Off, On-Off with Soft Start, Proportional,
and Proportional with Self-Adjust control options. The information display next
prompts for the type of control to be selected.
In the ON-OFF control mode, the heater circuit will turn on and off within the
programmed control band value.
CONTROL = ON/OFF CHANGE? (Y/N)
Press the DOWN arrow and ENTER key to accept this control type. Otherwise, to
change the control type, press the UP arrow key and the ENTER key.
The ON-OFF with SOFT-START option allows the circuit to be gradually powered
up by zero crossing cycle omission over a span of approximately 5.5 minutes.
Thereafter, the heater circuit will turn on and off within the programmed control
band value.
CONTROL = SOFT/START CHANGE?

(Y/N)
To retain the present setting, press the ENTER key. To change the control type,
press the UP arrow key and the ENTER key.
The PROPORTIONAL option will now control the heater within the programmed
control band using a proportional algorithm. This algorithm will adjust the power at
maintain from 20 - 100 (or programed value).
CONTROL = PROPORTIONAL
CHANGE? (Y/N)
CONTROL = SELF ADJUST CHANGE?

(Y/N)
With the SELF-ADJUST feature, the TC 1818a will measure the inherent system error
and will automatically adjust the proportional control parameters to decrease the
deviation from setpoint to a minimal value.
Note the SELF-ADJUST control option is only available in the SINGLE RTD controller
configuration.
The TC 1818a offers the option of setting the standard alarm relay switch to be
"Closed on Alarm" or "Open on Alarm." The information display next prompts
for alarm preferences.
STD ALARM CLOSED ON ALARM

CHANGE? (Y/N)
Press the ENTER key to retain the current setting. Press the UP arrow key and
the ENTER key to change the alarm switch action.
The TC 1818a also offers the option of setting the second TRIP alarm relay switch
to be "Closed on Alarm" or "Open on Alarm." The information display next
prompts for alarm preferences.
TRIP ALARM CLOSED ON ALARM

CHANGE? (Y/N)
Press the ENTER key to retain the current setting. Press the UP arrow key and
the ENTER key to change the alarm switch action.
The TC 1818a is standardly provided with a SELF TEST function which turns each
of the heater circuits "On" and "Off" and looks for the appropriate changes in the
relay heater current. During the heater "On" state, the TC 1818a also checks for
the presence of both "LOW CURRENT" alarms and "GROUND CURRENT" alarms.
The TC 1818a prompts for the desired settings for the "SELF TEST."
AUTO SELF TEST = OFF NEW VALUE

= OFF MIN.
The SELF TEST function is currently disabled. Press the ENTER key to retain this
setting. Press the UP arrow key and the ENTER key to change to an automatic
SELF TEST interval from 2 to 99 hours.
Subsequently the TC 1818a returns to the Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

CONTROL BAND (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the CONTROL BAND key results in the following display prompt:
CONTROL BAND=3oF NEW

VALUE=3oF
If configured in the "On-Off" or "Soft Start" control mode, the TC 1818a will turn
on the heater at the maintain temperature setpoint and will turn off at 3oF above
this value.
ON-OFF CONTROL WITH 100 POWER
Maintain Temp
100
0
Heater
Power Control
Band
If programmed to operate in the "Proportional Mode", and the "Power at

Maintain Temperature" is set at 100 , the TC 1818a will operate at 100 power
below the maintain temperature setpoint and will ramp down in power within the
control band and subsequently turn off when above the maintenance
temperature plus control band.
PROPORTIONAL WITH 100 POWER
Maintain Temp
100
20
0
Heater Control
Power Band
If the "Power at Maintain Temperature" has been programmed to some other
value (for example, 62 ), the TC 1818a will operate at that power level value at
the maintenance temperature and the control band range will adjust as shown
below.
PROPORTIONAL WITH 62 POWER
Maintain Temp
Control
Band
100
62
20
0
Heater
Power Adjusted
Control
Band
When configured in the "Proportional with Self-Adjust" mode, the TC 1818a will
initially operate in the "Proportional Mode" and will subsequently begin to
automatically adjust the slope of the power ramp down. The "Power at Maintain
Temperature" will decrease until power output matches the demand.
PROPORTIONAL WITH SELF-ADJUST
Maintain Temp
100
55
Steady
State
0
Heater
Power Control
Band
To retain present control band setting, press the ENTER key. Press the UP or
DOWN arrow key to increase or decrease the control band and press ENTER to
save the new value.
Subsequently, the TC 1818a returns to the Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

HEATER ENABLE (PROGRAM MODE)
The TC 1818a can be factory configured for operation with a variety of pipe sensing,
ambient sensing, and RTD assignment configurations.
When programming the HEATER ENABLE settings in one of these control
configurations, the following alternate prompt window messages may appear.
For the controller configuration SINGLE RTD INPUTS, the following message will appear
Prompt Window Message Explanation

The ENABLED prompt will appear on all
ENABLED CHANGE? (Y/N)
process sensing circuits. These circuits will
turn on when the TC 1818a senses a process
temperature below the maintain temperature
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N) setpoint.
The DISABLED prompt allows the option of
disabling this control circuit for service
work.
The FORCE HEATER ON prompt allows the

FORCE HEATER ON? (Y/N)
option of temporarily turning on the heater
circuit for diagnostic purposes.
For the controller configuration 1 AMB / SINGLE RTD INPUTS, the following
message will appear.
The ENABLED (AMBIENT SENSE) prompt will

ENABLED (AMBIENT SENSE)
appear for all ambient sensed heater
CHANGE? (Y/N)
circuits. These heater circuits will turn on
when the TC 1818a senses an ambient
temperature on Heater Circuit 1 which is below
ENABLED (PIPE SENSE) the maintain temperature setpoint. Other
CHANGE? (Y/N) circuits may appear as ENABLED (PIPE
SENSE). In that case, these heater circuits
will turn on when the TC 1818a senses a pipe
or heated surface temperature which is
below the maintain temperature setpoint. In
this controller configuration, CIRCUIT 1 must
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N) be set as AMBIENT SENSE.
work.
FORCE HEATER ON? (Y/N) option of temporarily turning on the heater
For the controller configuration 2 AMB/ SINGLE RTD INPUTS, the following message
will appear.

The ENABLED (AMBIENT SENSE) prompt
will appear for all ambient sensed heater
CHANGE? (Y/N)
circuits. These heater circuits will turn on
when the TC 1818a senses an ambient
temperature on Heater Circuit 1 or 2 which is
below the maintain temperature setpoint.
ENABLED (PIPE SENSE) Other circuits may appear as ENABLED
CHANGE? (Y/N) (PIPE SENSE). In that case, these heater
circuits will turn on when the TC 1818a
senses a process temperature which is below
the maintain temperature setpoint. In this
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N) controller configuration, CIRCUIT 1 and 2
must be set as AMBIENT SENSE.
FORCE HEATER ON? (Y/N) work.

For the controller configuration 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS, the following message will
appear.

These heater circuit prompts appear when
ENABLED (ONE RTD) CHANGE?
using dual RTD input controller configurations.
(Y/N)
In these cases, the heater circuits will turn on
when the TC 1818a senses a process
ENABLED (TWO RTD'S)
temperature (on one or both RTD sensors)
CHANGE? (Y/N)
which is below the maintain temperature
setpoint.
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N) disabling this control circuit for service
work.

For the controller configuration 1 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS, the following message
will appear.
These prompts appear when using dual RTD
process sensing as well as ambient sensing
CHANGE? (Y/N)
circuit controller configurations. These heater
circuits will turn on when the TC 1818a senses
an ambient temperature (based on the value of
ENABLED (TWO RTD'S) the RTD reading in Circuit 1) which is below
CHANGE? (Y/N) the maintain temperature setpoint. Other
circuit prompts may appear as ENABLED (ONE
RTD or TWO RTD'S). In these cases, the
heater circuits will turn on when the TC
ENABLED (ONE RTD) CHANGE?
(Y/N)
1818a senses a process temperature (on one
or both RTD sensors) which is below the
maintain temperature setpoint. Except in the
case of CIRCUIT 1 which must be AMBIENT
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N) SENSE in this factory configuration, all other
circuits may be set as AMBIENT SENSE or ONE
or TWO RTDS control.
FORCE HEATER ON? (Y/N) work. The FORCE HEATER ON prompt allows
the option of temporarily turning on the heater
circuit for diagnostic purposes.
For the controller configuration 2 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS, the following

message will appear.
ENABLED (AMBIENT SENSED) These prompts appear when using dual RTD
CHANGE? (Y/N) process sensing as well as ambient sensing circuit
controller configurations. These heater circuits
will turn on when the TC 1818a senses an
ambient temperature (based on the lower
ENABLED (ONE RTD) CHANGE? value of the RTD reading in Circuit 1 and 2)
(Y/N)
which is below the maintain temperature
setpoint. Other circuit prompts may appear as
ENABLED (ONE RTD or TWO RTDS). In that
case, these heater circuits will turn on when
ENABLED (TWO RTD) CHANGE?
(Y/N) the TC 1818a senses a process temperature
(on one or both RTD sensors) which is below
the maintain temperature setpoint. Except
in the case of CIRCUIT 1 and 2 which must be
AMBIENT SENSE in this controller
configuration, all other circuits may be set as
AMBIENT SENSE or ONE or TWO RTDS
control.
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N) The DISABLED prompt allows the option of

work.
FORCE HEATER ON? (Y/N) option of temporarily turning on the heater
Starting programming by pressing the PROG key.
PROG
Subsequently, press the HEATER ENABLE key.
HEATER
ENABLE
Select the desired circuit by pressing the UP or DOWN arrow keys and then
pressing the ENTER key. Depending on the TC 1818a controller configuration,
variations in the prompt message may be seen.
PROGRAM CIRCUIT = 1
A prompt message as shown below will then appear.
ENABLED CHANGE? (Y/N)
This heater circuit is currently enabled and will turn on when the TC 1818a
senses a temperature below the maintain temperature setpoint.
If the TC 1818a is set for an ambient control configuration the following two enable
prompt messages will appear.
CHANGE? (Y/N)
Pressing the DOWN arrow key will leave the heater enabled in the ambient sense
mode. Press the UP arrow key and the ENTER key.
The TC 1818a will now prompt as follows.
ENABLED (PIPE SENSE) CHANGE?

(Y/N)
Pressing the DOWN arrow key and the ENTER key will result in enabling the
heater as a pipe sensing circuit. Pressing the UP arrow key will result in the
following new prompt.
DISABLED CHANGE? (Y/N)
Pressing the DOWN arrow key and the ENTER key wil result in disabling the
heater circuit and thus result in the removal of external heat from the pipe or
heated surface. The TC 1818a will next prompt as follows.
Press the UP arrow key and the ENTER key to retain this setting. In this operating
mode, the heater will remain ON as long as no programmed alarm limits are
exceeded.
Pressing the DOWN arrow and ENTER key will result in the TC 1818a returning to
SCAN MODE.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE
DATA HIGHWAY (PROGRAM MODE)
Pressing the DATA HIGHWAY key results in the following display prompt:
DATA HIGHWAY=4 NEW VALUE=4
The TC 1818a is currently identified as address number 4. This unique address

allows the data highway communications software to identify the information being
sent by the controller with a location and heater circuit number.
To retain the present address value, press the ENTER key. Press the UP or DOWN
arrow key to increase or decrease the address value and press ENTER to confirm
the new address.
The TC 1818a has the capability to choose the Modbus ASCII or the Modbus RTU
protocols.
MODBUS ASCII CHANGE? Y/N
Pres the ENTER key to retain the current Modbus protocol. Press the UP arrow key
to change the protocols. Press the ENTER key to confirm the new settings.
The TC 1818a allows the successive numbering of circuit numbers for a group of
modules. As shown below, the TC 1818a prompts for the beginning circuit number
for the control module being programmed.
1ST CIRCUIT NUMBER=1 NEW

VALUE = 1 MIN.
Press the ENTER key to retain the current beginning circuit number. Press the UP
arrow key to arrive at the desired starting point and the ENTER key to confirm
the new starting circuit number.
The TC 1818a then returns to the Scan Mode.

THE TC 1818A IN OPERATION
POWER UP (SCAN MODE)
On power up, the TC 1818a will display the following two start-up screen
messages.
THERMON TC 1818a COPYRIGHT

1995-10
18 RTD INPUTS
18 RELAY OUTPUTS
This prompt message indicates that this TC 1818a controller has been configured to
control eighteen heater circuits with eighteen individual RTD inputs. Depending on
the TC 1818a controller configuration, variations in the above message sequence
may be seen.
Then the TC 1818a will go into Scan Mode.

Once in Scan Mode operation, in the standard factory configuration the TC
1818a will sequentially indicate the temperature reading along with the maintain
temperature.
CKT 1 TEMP=51°F MAINTAIN CKT 4 TEMP=51°F MAINTAIN

TEMP=50oF TEMP=50°F

TEMP=120°F TEMP=120°F

TEMP=600°F TEMP=600°F
Upon displaying all temperature information for all configured circuits, the TC 1818a
will subsequently return to the first circuit and repeat the display sequence.
Refer to page 53 for more details on alternate control options and prompt
messages.
WHEN IN ALARM (SCAN MODE)
Un-Acknowledged Alarms
When an alarm condition occurs, the "ALARM ON" LED will begin to flash, the
"ALARM TYPE" LED's will illuminate when the specific circuit in alarm appears on the
INFORMATION DISPLAY, and the standard alarm relay will close.
Acknowledged Alarms
To acknowledge an alarm condition, press the ALARM ACK key. The first alarm
condition will be indicated in the INFORMATION DISPLAY. Pressing the ALARM
ACK key again will acknowledge this alarm. Repeat this sequence to determine the
nature of additional alarms. Acknowledged alarms are indicated by the suffix “Ack”
appearing when the alarm condition is displayed. Acknowledged alarms will continue
to be displayed until the alarm condition clears. When all alarms have been
acknowledged then the ALARM ON light on the controller will cease flashing but
will stay ON until all alarm conditions have cleared.
Manual Reset
If a TRIP option has been set on a circuit, then all alarms for that circuit must be
acknowledged before they will clear. When TRIP has been triggered, the alarm for
that trip must be acknowledged and the alarm condition must clear before automatic
control is restored.
Automatic Reset
When no TRIP options have been set, the alarms will automatically clear when the
alarm condition has cleared.
ACCESSING DATA (DISPLAY MODE)
Press the MAINTAIN TEMP key to display the Maintain Temperature for all circuits
as typically shown.
MAINTAIN
TEMP
MAINTAIN TEMP CIRCUIT 1=50°F MAINTAIN TEMP CIRCUIT 4=50°F
RETURN TO SCAN MODE
Press the HEATER CURRENT key to display the Heater Amperage for all enabled
circuits as typically shown.
HEATER
CURRENT
HEATER CURRENT CIRCUIT 1=1.0A HEATER CURRENT CIRCUIT 4=1.0A
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the CONFIG key to display the global settings for all trip and control
functions, to view the interval between self tests, and to do a manual SELF TEST
on the circuits. A typical display sequence is shown.
RTD FAULT TURNS CKT OFF
GROUND CURRENT TRIP ON
HIGH CURRENT TRIP OFF
HIGH TEMP TRIP ON
CONTROL = ON/OFF
STD ALM CLOSED ON ALARM
TRIP ALM CLOSED ON ALARM
2 RTD ALARM DEADBAND TEMP =

1°F *
* NOTE: This information

screen only appears when a
circuit is configured for dual
RTD inputs.
AUTO SELF TEST ON INTERVAL 2

HOURS
CIRCUIT TEST IN PROGRESS CIRCUIT TEST IN PROGRESS

TESTING CIRCUIT #1 TESTING CIRCUIT #4


RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the CONTROL BAND key to display the control band settings for all
circuits as typically shown.
CONTROL
BAND
CONTROL BAND CIRCUIT 1=2°F CONTROL BAND CIRCUIT 4=2°F
CONTROL BAND CIRCUIT 2= 3°F CONTROL BAND CIRCUIT 5=3°F
CONTROL BAND CIRCUIT 3= 10°F CONTROL BAND CIRCUIT 6=10°F
Subsequently, the TC 1818a returns to Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the GROUND CURRENT key to display ground leakage current from heater
and associated wiring on all circuits as typically shown.
GROUND
CURRENT
GROUND CURRENT CIRCUIT 1=15mA GROUND CURRENT CIRCUIT 4=15mA
Subsequently the Information display will begin displaying the ground leakage
alarm/trip settings for each circuit.
GROUND CURRENT ALARM GROUND CURRENT ALARM

CIRCUIT 1=40mA CIRCUIT 4=40mA


Upon completion of the display of the ground current alarm/trip values on all circuits,
the TC 1818a returns to Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the HEATER ENABLE key to display if the heater status is set as enabled.
The heater status can be enabled, disabled, forced on, or tripped.
HEATER
ENABLE
HEATER HEATER
CIRCUIT 1= ENABLED CIRCUIT 4 = ENABLED
HEATER HEATER
CIRCUIT 2= ENABLED CIRCUIT 5 = ENABLED
HEATER HEATER
CIRCUIT 3= ENABLED CIRCUIT 6 = FORCED ON
Refer to page 54 for more details on alternate HEATER ENABLE prompt messages.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the HIGH TEMP ALARM key to display the High Temperature Alarm Setpoint
and Highest Temperature Seen for all circuits as typically shown.
HIGH TEMP
ALARM
HIGH TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT HIGH TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT

1=130°F 4=130°F
HIGH TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT 2=20°F HIGH TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT

5=200°F
HIGH TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT HIGH TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT 6=

3=700°F 700°F
The TC 1818a will then begin to scroll through the highest stored value of
temperature for each circuit.
HIGH TEMP SEEN CIRCUIT 1=200°F HIGH TEMP SEEN CIRCUIT 4=200°F
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the HIGH CURRENT alarm key to display the High Heater Current Alarm
setpoint as typically shown.
HIGH
CURRENT
ALARM
HIGH CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT HIGH CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT

1=5.0A 4=5.0A
HIGH CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT 2= HIGH CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT

10A 5=10A
HIGH CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT HIGH CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT

3=30A 6=30A
The TC 1818a then returns to Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE
Press the DATA HWY key to display the Data Highway address setting for the
module and check the data highway communication status (respectively).
DATA HWY
DATA HIGHWAY ADDRESS=18

COMM STATUS=IN
A "COMM STATUS" of IN or OUT denotes direction of the message transmittals

(the absence of IN or OUT indicates that data highway communications link has
not been established). Subsequently, the TC 1818a then returns to Scan
Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the LOW TEMP ALARM key to display the Low Temperature Alarm Setpoint
and Lowest Temperature Seen for all circuits as typically shown.
LOW TEMP
ALARM
LOW TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT 1=35°F LOW TEMP ALARM CIRCUIT 4=35°F
The TC 1818a will then begin to scroll through the lowest stored value of
temperature for each circuit.
LOW TEMP SEEN CIRCUIT 1=37°F LOW TEMP SEEN CIRCUIT 4=37°F
Upon completing the display of all the LOW TEMP SEEN data, the TC 1818a
returns to Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Press the LOW CURRENT alarm key to display the Low Heater Current Alarm
setpoint for all circuits as typically shown.
LOW
CURRENT
ALARM
LOW CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT LOW CURRENT ALARM CIRCUIT

1=1.0A 4=1.0A

2=8.0A 5=8.0A

3=12.0A 6=12.0A
After scanning through all circuits, the TC 1818a returns to Scan Mode.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

UNDERSTANDING ALARM CONDITIONS
When temperature related alarm conditions do occur, the below information may be
useful in establishing the cause and appropriate action.
HIGH TEMPERATURE (HIGH TEMP)

Low Limit: Maintain temperature plus control band
value High Limit: 1100oF or 600oC
Range: 0oF to 1100oF or 0oC to 600oC
Cause: Sensed temperature exceeds programmed high
temperature alarm setpoint
Controller
Action Taken: Alarm Only or Alarm and Trip Heater (if trip is set)
LOW TEMPERATURE (LOW TEMP)

Low Limit: -40oF or -40oC
High Limit: Maintain temperature value
Range: -40oF to 1099oF or -40oC to 599oC
Cause: Sensed temperature is below programmed low
temperature alarm setpoint
Controller
Action Taken: Alarm Only
RTD FAULT
Cause: RTD resistance not in the 70 to 300 ohms
range Controller
Action Taken: Alarm and heater are energized or alarm and heater are
turned off depending on programming configuration.
When heater related alarms occur, the below information may be useful in
establishing a cause and an appropriate action.
HIGH CURRENT (HIGH CURRENT)

Low Limit: Low current alarm value
High Limit: 30.0A
Range: 1 to 30.0A
Cause: Heater current is more than high current alarm
value Controller
LOW CURRENT (LOW CURRENT)

Low Limit: 0.0A
High Limit: High current alarm value
Range: 0 to 30.0A
Cause: Heater current is less then low current alarm
value Controller
HIGH GROUND CURRENT (HIGH GND CUR)

Low Limit: 30mA
High Limit: 150mA
Range: 30 to 150mA
Cause: An excessive heater/wiring leakage current is
present Controller
CIRCUIT FAULT (CKT FAULT)

Checks For: Damaged relay or loss of current during "heater on" cycle
Cause: Relay locked open or closed, breaker off, or
heater/wiring disconnected
Controller
POWER OFF
Cause: Loss of voltage to
unit Controller
Action Taken: None
Reset Procedure: Power off message will clear itself after 30 minutes or
can be manually cleared with the ALARM ACK key
CONFIGURING THE TC 1818A FOR AMBIENT SENSING OR DUAL RTD
CONTROL
The TC 1818a is standardly configured for process sensing with one RTD input
assigned to each relay output circuit. The operating descriptions in this manual to
this point have covered using the TC 1818a when set up as a "Standard Control"
configuration. Depending on the firmware level, the TC 1818a can also be factory
or field configured for up to five other control configurations. The six possible
control configurations are identified in the below list.
Configuration Description
SINGLE RTD INPUTS Conventional process sensing control - one RTD input
for
each heat tracing circuit.
1 AMB/SINGLE Ambient sensing RTD in Circuit 1

controlling all
RTD INPUTS designated ambient sensing circuits with
conventional process sensing control on all process
sensing circuits (one RTD input for each heat
tracing circuit).
2 AMB/SINGLE Ambient sensing RTD's in Circuit 1 and 2 and

controlling RTD INPUTS all designated ambient sensing circuits based on
the
lowest RTD reading with conventional process
sensing control on all process sensing circuits (one
RTD input for each heattracing circuit).
1 or 2 RTD INPUTS Single and dual RTD process sensing control - one or
two
RTD inputs for each heat tracing circuit as designated.
1 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS Ambient sensing RTD in Circuit 1 controlling all

designated ambient sensing circuits with single or
dual RTD process sensing control on all process
sensing circuits.
2 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS Ambient sensing RTD's in Circuit 1 and 2 and

controllingl
all designated ambient sensing circuits based on
the lowest RTD reading with single or dual RTD
process sensing control on all process sensing
circuits.
In order to factory or field program the TC 1818a for any configuration other than
the standard SINGLE RTD INPUTS, first momentarily press the DATA HWY key.
DATA HWY
Next press and hold the MAINTAIN TEMP key for about 5 seconds.
MAINTAIN
TEMP
The following prompt window message will next appear.
ITEM TO CONFIGURE
Press the CONFIG key.
CONFIG
The current setting for the TC 1818a control configuration will appear.
SINGLE RTD INPUTS CHANGE? (Y/N)
Press the UP arrow key and ENTER to change or press the DOWN arrow key and
ENTER to accept the current configuration and then return to SCAN MODE.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE

It is intended that this configuration setting be set prior to programming in all heat
tracing circuit parameters. If it is necessary to change the settings once the unit is
installed in the field, it is recommended that all heat tracing circuit parameters
be entered again.
ALTERNATE CONTROL CONFIGURATIONS IN OPERATION
Information screens will vary slightly depending on which alternate control

configuration is enabled. A summary of the alternate message screens which may
be seen during the SCAN MODE of operation are listed below:
Message Window Description
CKT 1 TEMP = 51°F Where a heater circuit on the TC 1818a controller

HEATER POWER= 100% AMB has been programmed for ambient sensing control
operation, this information screen indicates the
temperature being read by the RTD on this circuit
number and also indicates the percentage of
power being supplied to the circuit. When the
power clamping function or ambient proportional
control is utilized, the percentage "time on" can
vary from 100 to as low as 20 .
This information screen indicates that the
temperature being read by the RTD on this
CKT 1 TEMP = 51°F circuit number is 51oF and that the heater has
HEATER FORCED ON been "forced on". In the "forced on" mode, the
circuit will remain on as long as no programmed
alarm limits are exceeded. This programmed
setting is primarily used for field diagnostic
testing.
Where a heater circuit on the TC 1818a
controller has been programmed for process
temperature sensing operation, this information
CKT 1 TEMP = 51°F
screen indicates the temperature being read by the
MAINTAIN TEMP = 50oF PS
RTD on this circuit number as well as the actual
maintain temperature programmed.
Where a heater circuit on the TC 1818a controller
CKT 1 TEMP = 51°F, 53°F
has been programmed for ambient sensing
HEATER POWER=100% AMB
control operation with dual RTD inputs, this
information screen indicates the temperatures
being read by the RTDs on this circuit number and
also indicates the percentage of power being
supplied to the circuit. When the power
clamping function or ambient proportional
control is utilized, the percentage "time on" can
vary from 100 to as low as 20 .
This information screen indicates that the
CKT 1 TEMP = 51°F, 53°F
temperatures being read by the dual RTDs
HEATER FORCED ON
programmed to sense temperature for this circuit
number and that the heater has been "forced
on". This program setting is primarily used for
field diagnostic testing.
Where a heater circuit on the TC 1818a
CKT 1 TEMP = 51°F, 53°F
controller has been programmed for dual RTD
MAINTAIN TEMP = 50°F PS
process temperature sensing operation, this
information screen indicates the temperatures
being read by the RTDs on this circuit number as
well as the actual maintain temperature
programmed.
When inquiring as to the heater status (enabled, disabled, forced on, or tripped) by
pressing the HEATER ENABLE key, the following alternate message screens may
be seen:

HEATER This information screen identifies the Circuit 3 as
CIRCUIT 3= ENABLED AMB being enabled as an ambient sensing RTD
circuit.
HEATER This information screen identifies the Circuit 3

CIRCUIT 3= ENABLED PS as being enabled as a process temperature
sensing RTD circuit.
HEATER This information screen identifies the Circuit 4

CIRCUIT 4= ENABLED 1RTD
as being enabled with one RTD sensor input.
HEATER This information screen identifies the Circuit 4 as

CIRCUIT 4= ENABLED 2RTD being enabled with dual RTD sensor inputs.
PROGRAMMING AND OPERATING THE TC 1818A IN AN AMBIENT
SENSING CONTROL MODE
The TC 1818a control module should first be configured to allow wide band
proportional temperature control in ambient sensing control applications.
The simplest controller configuration to implement ambient sensing control are the
single RTD input controller configurations listed below:
1 AMB/ SINGLE RTD INPUTS
2 AMB/ SINGLE RTD INPUTS
When programmed for one of these controller configurations, the TC 1818a

control module will accept one ambient sensing RTD input (Circuit 1) or two
ambient sensing RTD inputs (Circuit 1 and 2), and will read this input or the lower
of the two values into all other ambient sense enabled circuits for control
purposes. While most of the TC 1818a operation in this mode is identical to that
previously described (recognizing, of course, that the temperature being acted
upon is the ambient value), there are a few differences which are described in the
following sections.
HEATER ENABLE (PROGRAM MODE)
To program the control mode of each circuit, press sequentially the PROG key
and the HEATER ENABLE key. The TC 1818a will prompt for the selection of the
desired circuit (or All the Same Value).
PROGRAM CIRCUIT=1
Press the UP or DOWN arrow key and ENTER. The TC 1818a will indicate the
present setting (Ambient Sensing, Pipe Sensing, or Disabled). Press the UP arrow
key to change the value and then the ENTER key to accept the new value.

CHANGE? (Y/N)
ENABLED (PIPE SENSE) CHANGE?

(Y/N)
The configuration restrictions on combinations of process (pipe) sensing and
ambient sensing circuits are:
• Circuit 1 for single RTD sensor input must be retained as ambient sensing
control circuit.
• Circuit 1 and 2 for dual RTD sensor inputs must be retained as ambient
sensing control circuits.
• Proportional control mode must be utilized on both ambient and process
(pipe) sensed circuits.
MAINTAIN TEMP (PROGRAM MODE)
In order to set the maintain temperature when using ambient sensing control,
press the PROG key. The TC 1818a will prompt for the function to program.
PROGRAM MODE ENABLED SELECT

FUNCTION KEY
Press the MAINTAIN TEMP key. The TC 1818a will next prompt for the selection of
the desired circuit (or All the Same Value).
PROGRAM CIRCUIT=2
Press the UP or DOWN arrow key and ENTER. The TC 1818a will prompt for the
maintain temperature as follows:

VALUE=120°F
When in ambient sensing control mode, the minimum ambient temperature

should be entered here (this is the 100 heater power value in wide band
proportional control). To change the present maintain temperature value, press
the UP or DOWN arrow key until the proper value is displayed.

VALUE=-20°F
Press the ENTER key to accept the new value. The TC 1818a will then return to
the Scan Mode operation.
CONTROL BAND (PROGRAM MODE)
In order to set the control range for ambient sensing control, press the PROG
key. The TC 1818a will prompt for the function to program.
PROGRAM MODE ENABLED SELECT

FUNCTION KEY
Press the CONTROL BAND key. The TC 1818a will next prompt for the selection of
the desired circuit (or All the Same Value).
PROGRAM CIRCUIT=1
Press the UP or DOWN arrow key and ENTER. The TC 1818a will prompt for the
control band as follows:
CONTROL BAND=5°F NEW

VALUE=5°F
When in wide band ambient sensing control mode, the control band will be
between the minimum ambient temperature (the 100 heater power value) and the
ambient temperature at which power off is to occur (the process fluid minimum
desired temperature value). To change the present control band value, press the
UP or DOWN arrow key until the proper value is displayed.
CONTROL BAND=5°F NEW

VALUE=70°F
Press the ENTER key to accept the new value. Note that with these settings, full
power to the heaters will occur at -20°F and power will turn off at 50°F. The TC
1818a will then return to the Scan Mode operation.
RETURN TO SCAN MODE
SCANNING DATA (DISPLAY MODE)
When in the SCAN mode of operation, the TC 1818a will display the following
screen on all ambient sensed control circuits in a single RTD controller
configuration.
CKT 3 TEMP= -20°F

Circuit 1 Ambient
HEATER POWER=100% AMB
Sensing RTD
or
Circuit 1and 2 CKT 3 TEMP= -20°F, -19°F HEATER

Ambient Sensing POWER=100% AMB
RTD's
The TC 1818a thus indicates the RTD input temperature which represents the
ambient temperature values measured on Circuit 1 (and Circuit 2 if configured) and is
additionally indicating the power level that this particular circuit is operating
at.
PROGRAMMING AND OPERATING THE TC 1818a WITH DUAL INPUT
RTDS FOR A SINGLE CONTROL CIRCUIT
The TC 1818a control module may be factory or field configured to allow for
using single or dual RTD inputs on either ambient sensing or process sensing
applications. The following three controller configuration options are
available for this purpose:
Controller Configuration Application
1or 2 RTD INPUTS Process sensing applications
1AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS Process sensing applications and single ambient

sensor in first circuit
2 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS Process sensing applications and ambient

sensors in first and second circuit
The above factory configuration options are specifically designed for controlling a
heat tracing circuit with either single or dual RTD input sensor control circuits.
When setting up circuit assignments for these factory configuration types, the heat
tracing circuits that are to be set up with dual RTD's will always be assigned in
pairs. That is, the RTD's on Circuit 1 and 2, Circuit 3 and 4, Circuit 5 and 6, and
so on should be considered as paired circuits. As one example, when dealing with
dual RTD's with process sensing, if Circuit 6 were to be programmed for a dual
RTD input control the TC 1818a controller would use the RTD's in Circuit 5 and 6
in controlling the power relay for Circuit 6. The relay associated with Circuit 5
could be disabled or could be used to control a second pass of heater if Circuit 5
were also configured as a dual RTD process sensing input (using RTD 5 and RTD 6
for control).
As another example, in a "1 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS" controller configuration, if
Circuit 6 were to be programmed for a dual RTD input control it would again use
the RTD's in Circuit 5 and 6 in controlling the power relay for Circuit 6. In this case,
however, the relay on Circuit 5 could additionally be used as a control power
relay on an ambient sensed circuit operating based on the RTD input from
Circuit 1.
The specific control strategy for a dual RTD control circuit in any of these factory
configuration types is as follows:
The heat tracing circuit controls off of the lowest RTD reading
except in the event that a temperature value on either RTD falls
within the alarm dead band of the high temperature alarm
value. In this event, that RTD will become the controlling
temperature reading.
The heat tracing circuit will go into low or high alarm if

either RTD reading in the pair exceeds the programmed low
or high alarm limit value.
For more details on setting up a mixed single and dual RTD control mode, refer to
Examples 5 and 6.
TYPICAL CONTROL APPLICATIONS
EXAMPLE 1 - AMBIENT SENSING FREEZE PROTECTION -
PROPORTIONAL CONTROL WITH SOLID STATE RELAY
OUTPUT
When configured with solid state relays, the TC 1818a may be used in ambient
sensing wide band proportional control. This method of control is ideal in tracing
designs where simple ambient sensing RTD's and freeze protection is required. In
this mode of control, the TC 1818a will (by cycle omission techniques)
proportionally increase the power to the heat tracing as the ambient temperature
drops. A typical application for this type of control might be the freeze protection of
water lines in a water treatment facility. Assume the following heat tracing
operating design —
Heat Tracing Type: Self-Regulating Parallel Heater Cable
Safety Factor: 30
Minimum Ambient: -20°F
Minimum Water Maintain Temp: 40°F
A typical list of the key TC 1818a settings is as given below:
Control Parameter Setting
Controller Configuration 1 AMB/ SINGLE RTD INPUTS

Control Method Proportional
Maintain Temperature* -20°F
Percent Power at Maintain Temp. 100
Control Band 60°F
* Note that the maintain temperature is the temperature where 100

power is supplied to the heater.
Having set in these values along with appropriate alarm settings, the following control
can typically be achieved.
Pipe
Temperature
Power
100 Pipe
75
55
35
Power
20
0
-20 40
Ambient Temperature (degF)
EXAMPLE 2 - FOUNDATION HEAVE PROTECTION - PROPORTIONAL WTH SELF-
ADJUST CONTROL WITH SOLID STATE RELAY OUTPUT
Cryogenic vessels and refrigerated rooms often utilize heating systems beneath to
prevent heaving due to the freezing of the soil/foundation base structure. A typical
heat tracing application of this type might require an operating tracing design
as follows:
Internal Room Temperature: -27°F

Minimum Maintain Temperature
of Soil: 40°F
Maximum Foundation Temperature: 80°F
Heater Cable Type: Constant Wattage
Design Safety Margin: 42
The TC 1818a control module using foundation temperature sensing RTD's in each heating
zone can be typically set at the control settings given below:
Controller Configuration SINGLE RTD INPUTS

Control Method Proportional with Self-Adjust
Maintain Temperature 50°F
Control Band 30°F
High Alarm Temperature 90°F
High Temperature Trip On
Low Alarm Temperature 38°F
These settings assume the system was designed with a 42 safety margin. By
clamping the power to the 70 value, the heater output should match the heat
load. The heater should be continually operating using cycle omission techniques
in a warming mode (and will thus minimize condensation within the heating system).
After attaining 50°F, the TC 1818a will linearly reduce power (the minimum
level of power is 20 after 9°F rise) until an equilibrium value between 50°F
and 80°F is obtained. In the unlikely event that the 80°F setting is exceeded, the
control will de-energize the heater circuit. A high temperature alarm will activate
should the RTD sensor detect a temperature above the 90°F value and the
circuit will trip.
Having set in these values as well as the appropriate other limit/control values, the
following typical control can be achieved.
Power
100
Typical Controlled
Soil Temperature
70
20
0
50 52 59 80
Soil Temperature (degF)

EXAMPLE 3 - PROCESS TEMPERATURE MAINTENANCE - PROPORTIONAL
CONTROL WITH SOLID STATE RELAY OUTPUT
The TC 1818a features the option of proportional control for those applications
where close temperature control is required on process piping which may have
varying process temperature conditions. A typical heat traced piping application
might be a corn syrup viscosity control application. Due to the sensitivity of the
syrup to color degradation the syrup must be maintained below 90°F. Typical heat
tracing design requirements are listed as follows:
Syrup Maintain Temperature: 80°F
Heater Cable Type: Constant Wattage
Maximum Syrup Temperature: 90°F
The TC 1818a control module utilizing pipe sensing RTD's could be typically set as
shown below:

Control Band 10°F
High Temperature Trip On
Power at Maintain Temperature 100
Power
100
Pipe
Control
Point
20
Controlband
0
80 83 90
Pipe Temperature (degF)
EXAMPLE 4 - PROCESS TEMPERATURE CONTROL - MECHANICAL RELAYS
Extremely versatile, the TC 1818a can be configured with RM-1 or RM-2 mechanical
relay output options. This option is often selected in high heat output tracing
applications where either high current or high voltage switching is required. One
such tracing application might be the temperature maintenance of a long sulfur
transfer line. Typical tracing design requirements are listed as follows:
Heater Cable Type: Mineral Insulated Series Cable
Voltage Switched: 277 Vac
Current Switched: 49A
Sulfur Maintenance Temperature: 282°F
Sulfur Freeze Point: 260°F
Sulfur Congeal Point: 320°F
The TC 1818a control module with pipe sensing RTD's could be typically as
shown below:

Control Method On/Off
Control Band 5°F
Pipe
Temperature
(degF)
290
280
Time
EXAMPLE 5 - PROCESS TEMPERATURE CONTROL - SINGLE AND DUAL RTD SENSING
It is sometimes considered advantageous to use dual RTD sensors on a critical heat

tracing application such as a 50 caustic line. In this way, the power to the
heater can be based on the input of two discrete temperature inputs rather than one.
In addition, in the event of an RTD fault, the operator can be alarmed, the circuit
can be acknowledged, and the RTD can be repaired without turning the heat tracing
circuit OFF. For this application, the typical design requirements are as listed
below:
Product Maintenance Temperature: 80°F
Product Freeze Point: 54°F
Heater Cable Type: Self Regulating Parallel
Cable Maximum Caustic Temperature: 100°F
indicated below:
Controller Configuration 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS

Control Band 5°F
High Temperature Trip ON
Power at Maintain Temperature 100
Considering that we have only three heat tracing circuits, the TC 1818a would be
set up as a six point unit with a controller configuration of "1 or 2 RTD
INPUTS".
The heat tracing circuit assignments would be as follows:
Circuit No. Setting
1 Enabled (2 RTD)
2 Disabled
3 Enabled (2 RTD)
4 Disabled
5 Enabled (2 RTD)
6 Disabled
In this case power relays on circuits 2, 4 and 6 will not be connected to the
heat tracing.
Alternately, in a case where both power relays were to be used to maximize the
current switching capability, the following circuit assignments could also be
used.
Circuit No. Setting
1 Enabled (2 RTD)
2 Enabled (2 RTD)
3 Enabled (2 RTD)
4 Enabled (2 RTD)
5 Enabled (2 RTD)
6 Enabled (2 RTD)
In this circuit assignment, all circuit relays are controlling off of dual RTD inputs.
Note that this configuration is also applicable in center feed arrangements for two
heat tracing circuits running in opposite directions from power.
EXAMPLE 6 - PROCESS TEMPERATURE AND AMBIENT SENSING CONTROL - SINGLE
AND DUAL RTD SENSING
In many applications there are a variety of control applications. Some may be the
critical applications such as the 50 caustic in Example 5 and some may be simple
water freeze protection. For this combination application, the typical design
requirements are as listed below:
50% Caustic
Heater Cable Type: Self Regulating Parallel
Cable Maximum Caustic Temperature: 100°F
Number of Circuits: Two Process Sensing
Water
Heater Cable Type: Self Regulating Parallel Cable
Number of Circuits: Four Ambient Sensing
indicated below:
Controller Configuration 1 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD INPUTS

Control Method On-Off
Caustic Circuits
Control Band 5°F
High Temperature Trip ON
Water Circuits
Control Band 5°F
High Temperature Trip Off
Considering that we have only six heat tracing circuits, the TC 1818a would be set
up as a six point unit with a controller configuration of "1 AMB/ 1 or 2 RTD
INPUTS".
The heat tracing circuit assignments would be as follows:
Circuit No. Setting
1 Enabled (Ambient Sensed)

3 Enabled (2 RTD)
5 Enabled (2 RTD)
In this case, power relays on circuits 1, 2, 4 and 6 will be controlling ambient

sensed circuits based on the RTD input on Circuit 1. Circuit 3 and its power
relay will be controlling based on the RTD inputs from Circuit 3 and Circuit 4.
Circuit 5 and its power relay will be controlling based on the RTD inputs from
Circuit 5 and Circuit 6.
COMMUNICATIONS
The TC 1818a is standardly provided with an RS485 communications port. This port
allows for communication through a Modbus ASCII and RTU protocols to a PC
workstation or to the facility distributed control system (DCS). Through this
communications link, most of the operating parameters which are programmable at
the module can be accessible at the central PC workstation or DCS system
console.
For communications linking between the TC 1818a and a PC workstation, refer to
the TraceViewTM Network Explorer Operating Guide.
For communications linking information between the TC 1818a and the facility
distributed control system (DCS), refer to DCS Operations Guide, SWM-008.X.
OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES
Thermon can provide a variety of options and accessories to complete the
installation. Some typical accessories are listed below.
SW-TVNE
TraceViewTM Network Explorer is a PC-based communications software package
developed specifically for centralized control and monitoring of the various field mounted
HeatChekTM units. TraceView Network Explorer, operating within the Windows
environment, allows the changing of control and alarm setpoints, adjustment of
controller operating parameters, and acknowledgement of all alarms from the control
room or motor control center. TraceView Network Explorer permits the viewing of
heat tracing isometrics on demand and allows online access to heat tracing and
controller diagnostic information. Continuous data log- ging and reporting of heat
tracing operations/alarm status as well as historical trend data storage (for later
retrieval to spreadsheet or database software) is also provided.
TraceView Network Explorer can be configured for up to sixteen communication
ports (with each program instance allowing up to 247 HeatChek control and
monitoring units1). Communications can be achieved at distances up to 4000 ft.
(1220 m) on the RS485 two wire twisted shielded communication link.
RTD-100
This three wire resistance temperature detector (RTD) is rated to 500°F (260°C).
Provided with a standard aluminum termination head, the RTD sensor is insulated
with fiberglass and shielded with Type 316 stainless steel housing.
IM-1
Interface module for linking RS485 two-wire twisted shielded pair into RS232 port
of PC.
DCALXX
Interposing DC alarm relays can be added for use in ordinary and hazardous
locations to interface to plant DCS systems.
1
A minimum of one repeater module is recommended for every thirty-one control
and monitoring modules configured into a data highway.
HELP
This HeatChek control and monitoring unit is intended to be used with only the
support of this instruction booklet. If special support needs do arise, Thermon
provides local support through its area representatives and affiliate companies as
well as through a toll free user support line.
For toll free support dial 1-800-820-HEAT(4328). Information may also be

obtained by accessing the Thermon Website at www.Thermon.com.
Operating Guide
ATTACHMENT A: TC 1818A COMMAND FLOWCHART
Note: Security key must be in the vertical position for the TC 1818 to allow
programming.
MAINTAIN TEMPERATURE
PROGRAM
NEW
ENTE ENTE
MAINTAIN TEMP R R
PROG
CIRCUIT VALUE
CONTROL BAND
PROGRAM NEW
ENTE ENTE
CONTROL BAND R R
PROG
CIRCUIT
VALUE
HIGH TEMPERATURE
ALARM NEW RESET HIGH
PROGRAM
HIGH TEMP ENTER ENTER ENTER

ALARM
PROG
CIRCUIT
VALUE TEMP SEEN
LOW TEMPERATURE
ALARM NEW RESET LOW
PROGRAM
LOW TEMP ENTER ENTER ENTER

ALARM
PROG
CIRCUIT
VALUE TEMP SEEN
HIGH CURRENT ALARM

PROGRAM
NEW
HIGH CURRENT
ALARM ENTE ENTE
R R
PROG
CIRCUIT
VALUE
LOW CURRENT ALARM

PROGRAM
NEW
LOW CURRENT
ALARM ENTE ENTE
R R
PROG
TC 1818a Control
Module
CIRCUIT VALUE
74
Operating Guide
ATTACHMENT A: TC 1818A COMMAND FLOWCHART
Note: Security key must be in the vertical position for the TC 1818 to allow
programming.
GROUND CURRENT
ALARM NEW
PROGRAM
ENTE ENTE
GROUND R R
CURRENT
PROG
CIRCUIT VALUE
DATA
HIGHWAY PROGRAM NEW
ENTE ENTE
DATA HWY R R
PROG
CIRCUIT VALUE
CIRCUIT #
ENABLE (PIPE SENSE)
CIRCUIT #
ENABLE (AMBIENT SENSE)
CIRCUIT #
HEATERENABLE/DISABLE DISABLE
FORCE
PROGRAM HEATER ON
CIRCUIT
YES YES FORCED ON
HEATER
ENABLE ENTER
NO NO CIRCUIT
ENABLED/DISABLED
PROG CHANGE?
CIRCUIT
ALARM ACKNOWLEGE
CIRCUIT # REPORTED CIRCUIT #

REPORTED FAULT HAS
FAULT REPORTED FAULT ACK BEEN ACKNOWLEDGED
ALARM ACK ALARM ACK
75
THERMON. . . The Heat Tracing Specialists®
100 Thermon Dr. • P.O. Box 609 • San Marcos, TX 78667-0609 •

Phone: (512) 396-5801• Facsimile: (512) 396-3627 • 1-800-820-HEAT
http://www.thermon.com Part Number: 80505

Thermon Español TC 1818a

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TC 1818a

HeatChek and TraceView are tradenames of Thermon Manufacturing Company.

TC 1818a Especificaciones del módulo .............................................. 8

Control HeatChek típico y

Programación El TC 1818a .............................................. ............. 10

El TC 1818a en funcionamiento ............................................. ........ 37

Configurando el TC 1818a para Ambiente

Programación y operación del TC 1818a en

Programación y operación del TC 1818a con

Aplicaciones típicas de control ............................................... ....... 62

Comunicaciones ................................................. ........................ 71

Opciones y accesorios ............................................... ................... 72

Ayuda ................................................. ..................................... 73

Adjunto A: TC 1818a Diagrama de flujo de comandos

Table 1: Corriente total

PS5, SS5 576A 288A

CAUTION! CIRCUITS MAY BE ENERGIZED

ESPECIFICACIONES DEL MÓDULO TC 1818A

Capacidad de control y monitoreo: dieciocho circuitos de rastreo de calor

Voltaje de suministro del módulo: 110-120 VAC o 208-240 VCA

Frecuencia de operación: 50 a 60 Hz Nominal

Consumo de energía : 40 vatios por módulo TC 1818a

Ambiente de funcionamiento del módulo: -40 o F a +140 o F (-40 o C a +60 o C)

Ambiente de almacenamiento máximo: 158 o F (70 o C)

Retención de datos: EEPROM no volátil

Función Power Clamp: programable para niveles de potencia de 20 a

Entrada: hasta dieciocho 3 cables 100 ohmios a 32 o F (0 o C)

Rango de temperatura (control): -40 o F a 932 o F (-40 o C a 500 o C) con

Dimensiones del módulo (114 mm x 482 mm x 191 mm)

Alarma de corriente de funcionamiento alta: 1.0 a 30.0 A

Alarma de fuga a tierra / Disparo: 30 a 150 mA

Frecuencia de autocomprobación: programable de 2 a 99 horas

El cableado específico y los detalles de la disposición del equipo generalmente se

ACCEDER AL MODO DEL PROGRAMA

El TC 1818a mostrará el siguiente mensaje:

PROGRAM MODE ENABLED

Luego seleccione la tecla de función deseada (p. Ej., MANTENER TEMP).

Seleccione el circuito deseado presionando las teclas de flecha HACIA

PROGRAM = ALL THE SAME

Presione ENTER para configurar globalmente un control o parámetro de operación.

El siguiente es un mensaje típico que podría aparecer:

MAINTAIN TEMP=104°F NEW

MAINTAIN TEMP=104°F NEW

El controlador saldrá del modo de programación y regresará al modo de escaneo

RETURN TO SCAN MODE

Presionando la tecla de función HIGH TEMP ALARM resulta en un mensaje de

HIGH TEMP ALARM=160°F NEW

El TC 1818a está configurado para activar la alarma a 160 o F en el número de

HIGH TEMP ALARM=160°F NEW

A continuación, aparecerá el siguiente mensaje típico:

2 HIGH TEMP SEEN=200°F RESET?

Presione la tecla ARRIBA y ENTER para borrar este valor y comenzar

Al presionar la tecla ENTER o PROG se conserva el valor actual de 200 ° F.

RETURN TO SCAN MODE

LOW TEMP ALARM=50°F NEW

LOW TEMP ALARM=50°F NEW

2 LOW TEMP SEEN=40°F RESET?

Subsequently, the TC 1818a returns to the Scan Mode.

RETURN TO SCAN MODE

POWER AT MAINT TEMP=22%

RETURN TO SCAN MODE

GROUND CURRENT ALARM=40mA

GROUND CURRENT ALARM=40mA