In modern industrial automation, safety and reliability are paramount — especially in environments such as power generation, oil & gas, chemical processing, and large manufacturing facilities. The ABB SM811K01 (3BSE018173R1) is a high-integrity Safety CPU Module designed to deliver robust safety control and monitoring within ABB’s distributed control systems (DCS). With certification to Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL3) and engineered for redundant operation, this module ensures dependable performance where failure is not an option.
The ABB SM811K01 is a Safety CPU module intended for use in ABB’s Advanced control architectures such as Advant 800xA and AC 800M High Integrity Systems. It acts as a dedicated safety controller that works collaboratively with the PM865 processor unit, connecting to the system’s CEX bus via a BC810 CEX bus interconnection box. The module includes:
The SM811 Safety Module
A TP868 Baseplate
A TK852V10 Synchronization Link Cable
This kit supplies not just processing power but also synchronization capability between redundant modules — a key requirement for high-availability safety systems.
The SM811K01 is certified for Safety Integrity Level 3 (SIL3) — one of the highest levels of industrial functional safety. This certification means the module is suitable for applications where failure could lead to severe consequences, such as plant shutdowns or safety hazards.
In safety-critical installations, redundancy is essential. The SM811K01 supports 1oo2 diverse architectures alongside the PM865 safety processor, enabling seamless failover and continued operation even if one module fails. Synchronization via the included link cable ensures real-time data consistency between paired modules.
The module connects to ABB control systems using the CEX bus, providing high-integrity communication with safety I/O and other automation modules. This integration is vital for maintaining system coherence in distributed control environments.
Built with industrial reliability in mind, the SM811K01 module operates on 24 V DC and is suitable for continuous 24/7 use in tough plant conditions. Its hardware design supports hot swap and synchronized operation, reducing downtime during maintenance or upgrades.
Unlike some standalone CPU boards, this part ships as a complete safety controller kit with baseplate and synchronization cabling — simplifying installation and reducing the need for additional components.
This module is essential wherever safety and control integrity cannot be compromised:
Oil & Gas Safety Systems — Emergency shutdown, process interlocks
Power Generation Plants — Turbine and generator protection
Chemical & Petrochemical Processing — Hazardous process control
Industrial Manufacturing — Safety interlocks and high-integrity automation
Refineries & Utilities — Safety monitoring and emergency response automation
In these applications, the SM811K01 ensures that safety logic is executed reliably and that processes remain protected even under fault conditions.
Legacy Systems Only: The SM811K01 is intended for systems placed on the market before July 22, 2017. For new installations, ABB recommends the updated SM812K01 due to compliance with modern directives.
RoHS Compliance: This module is not compliant with RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU), which may affect suitability in certain regions or projects.
The ABB SM811K01 (3BSE018173R1) is a mission-critical Safety CPU module designed for the highest levels of industrial safety and reliability. Certified to SIL3, capable of redundant operation, and engineered for seamless integration with ABB’s AC 800M and 800xA systems, it provides dependable safety control where it matters most. Whether in chemical processing, energy production, or heavy manufacturing, this module helps protect personnel, equipment, and operations against unsafe conditions.
