ABB 3BHE044249R6003 / GDC806C6003 Advanced Gas Detection & Control Module

Overview

The ABB 3BHE044249R6003, also designated as GDC806C6003, is a high-performance gas detection and control module engineered for industrial safety and process control systems. Designed for use in hazardous environments, it provides rapid detection of combustible and toxic gases while offering integrated control capabilities for alarm management and system interlocks. Its rugged, industrial-grade design ensures reliable operation in oil, gas, chemical, petrochemical, and power generation facilities.

Features and Highlights

High-Speed Gas Detection: Immediate response to combustible and toxic gas levels

Integrated Safety Controls: Triggers alarms, ventilation, or shutdown systems automatically

Multi-Sensor Support: Compatible with catalytic, infrared, and electrochemical gas sensors

Robust Industrial Design: Resistant to dust, vibration, EMI, and extreme temperature variations

Flexible Integration: Supports Modbus, PROFIBUS DP, and ABB proprietary protocols

Diagnostic Feedback: Built-in LEDs and relay outputs for status monitoring and fault detection

CE, ATEX, and IECEx Compliant: Meets international safety and industrial standards

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

Model Number: 3BHE044249R6003 / GDC806C6003

Manufacturer: ABB

Product Type: Gas Detection & Control Module

Operating Voltage: 24 VDC typical

Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C

Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C

Detection Type: Catalytic, infrared, electrochemical (sensor-dependent)

Sensor Interface: Analog 4–20 mA or digital I/O

Alarm Outputs: Relay outputs for safety interlocks and alarms

Mounting Method: Panel or rack-mounted installation

Communication Protocols: Modbus, PROFIBUS DP, ABB proprietary protocol

Humidity: 5% to 95% non-condensing

Structure and Composition

The module is composed of the following key components:

Sensor Interface Board: Connects multiple gas sensors and converts signals to actionable data

Control Processor: Evaluates sensor data, executes thresholds, and triggers safety responses

Relay Output Section: Interfaces with alarms, ventilation systems, or emergency shutdown mechanisms

Communication Module: Provides integration with ABB DCS, SCADA, or PLC systems

Protective Housing: Industrial-grade enclosure to protect electronics from dust, vibration, and EMI

Status Indicators: Visual LEDs for operation, alarm, and fault status

The modular architecture allows for quick maintenance, sensor replacement, and system upgrades without requiring complete system downtime.

Applications

Industrial chemical and petrochemical plants

Oil and gas production, processing, and refining facilities

Power generation plants, including gas and coal-fired systems

Manufacturing processes with combustible or toxic gas hazards

Ventilation and emergency control systems

Integration with Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and SCADA monitoring

This module is particularly effective in applications requiring continuous safety monitoring and immediate response to hazardous gas detection.

Installation Instructions

Mount in a well-ventilated, dust-free, low-vibration area

Connect sensor inputs, alarm outputs, and power supply according to ABB wiring guidelines

Ensure proper grounding and shielding to reduce EMI interference

Calibrate sensors and verify alarm operation before commissioning

Integrate communication lines to DCS or SCADA systems for remote monitoring

Maintenance and Service

Inspect electrical connections and terminal integrity periodically

Perform routine calibration of sensors following ABB recommended intervals

Clean housing and sensor interfaces to prevent dust buildup

Monitor LED indicators and system diagnostics regularly

Replace any faulty sensors or modules exclusively with ABB-approved parts

Advantages

Rapid and accurate detection of combustible and toxic gases

Reliable operation under harsh industrial conditions

Flexible integration with various control and monitoring systems

Multi-sensor support for comprehensive safety coverage

Compliance with international safety standards (CE, ATEX, IECEx)

Enhances workplace safety and regulatory compliance in critical industrial facilities