Replacing an overspeed protection system doesn’t have to be a lengthy or complex project. With the SpeedSys ODS cabinet, Istec has designed a direct retrofit solution. This makes replacing the Woodward ProTech system as straightforward as a standard ProTech swap, but with all the benefits of a modern, Proven by Design safety system. Within a single day, your installation will be operational again: safe, reliable, and ready for the future.
Maintenance strategy that minimizes downtime
SpeedSys ODS is built around a maintenance philosophy focused on cost savings and availability. Instead of frequent online tests and regular checks, as required by older systems, SpeedSys ODS performs continuous internal self-diagnostics. This guarantees the system is reliable and ready to act at all times. Additionally, it is designed with a proof-test interval of minimum ten years, resulting in fewer maintenance moments, lower lifecycle costs, and minimal downtime. For plants where uptime is critical, this offers clear operational and financial advantages.
Integrated intrinsic safety
In installations located in hazardous areas, external barriers are often required to protect the sensors installed in the hazardous area. SpeedSys ODS eliminates this extra hardware by integrating ATEX/IECEx Ex ia certified sensor circuits as standard. This means less cabling, fewer components in the critical sensor loop, and a simpler installation process. The system is intrinsically safe from the very first connection, significantly simplifying retrofit projects.
Modern communication and integration
SpeedSys ODS offers Modbus RS485 with an extensive address list to fully trend the internal behavior and actions. This makes integration with modern DCS and ESD architectures simple and future-proof. In addition, USB configuration ensures a fast and intuitive setup. For plants embracing digitalization and remote monitoring, this is a major advantage.
Technical Comparison
| Aspect | Woodward ProTech GII | Istec SpeedSys ODS Cabinet |
| Installation | One-to-one replacement | One-to-one replacement |
| Safety level | SIL3, API 670/612 | SIL3 (SpeedSys 300), API 670/612, IEC 61508 |
| Sensor safety | External IS barriers or isolators required | Ex ia integrated, galvanic isolation |
| System safety | Ex nA (Zone 2) | Designed to be placed in Instrument control rooms |
| Maintenance | Regular checks, online trip test function required | Continuous automatic self-diagnostics, minimum 10-year proof-test interval |
| Communication | RS232/485, optional Ethernet | RS485 Modbus standard |
| Architecture | TMR (monolithic) | Modular, Standalone modules, hardwired voting (1oo2, 2oo2, 2oo3, 3oo3) |
| Form factor | Compact unit | Compact cabinet, DIN-rail modules |
Ready for your retrofit
Replacing a ProTech system with SpeedSys ODS is simple, fast, and safe. You get a new system, Proven by Design, that not only meets the highest safety standards but also addresses today’s requirements: flexible setup, intrinsic safety inputs, and low lifecycle costs. Why choose an outdated design when you can upgrade to a future-proof solution, without added complexity?
