GE EX2100e and EX2100 Excitation Controls Comparison

The EX2100e Excitation system is GE Energy’s advanced

platform for generator excitation controls.  The EX2100e

builds on the EX2100 experience of over 700 units in gas,

steam, and hydro applications (for new units and upgrades) in

addition to GE’s 50 years of experience with over 6.000

excitation systems in 70 countries.

The EX2100e has enhanced technology, including a new

controller from the Mark* VIe control line and the current

ControlST* software suite.  In addition, the EX2100e offers a

35A brushless dual redundant regulator option for cost

effective reliability.

Controllers

Now, excitation shares the same controller with Mark VIe

application-based turbine and plant controls. These single

board controllers offer flexible, compact packaging and more

computing power for advanced control features to enhance

grid dynamics and generator performance. In addition, the

stand-alone controllers can be easily upgraded for better life

cycle support of the equipment.

I/O Interface

The controllers communicate to the I/O interface through a

100 MB Ethernet I/O network that can be extended for

remote I/O modules. The large, inflexible I/O cables of the

EX2100 are eliminated. Since there are less electronics in an

EX2100e, a smaller spare parts inventory is needed. Similarly,

less active electronics increases the mean-time-between

failure (MTBF) and improves system reliability.

Controllers, I/O interface, and the bridge(s) are mounted

inside the EX2100e cabinet. Only an optional touchscreen

panel remains on the door for local control and display of

generator parameters along with alarm history and alarm/fault help.