Ensuring Safety with Discrete Signal Duplication in Hydrogen Applications

In safety-critical hydrogen environments, discrete binary signals like door lock status, emergency stop commands, or interlock activations must be transmitted reliably and without interference. The P16800 Safety Signal Doubler is a solution for duplicating discrete signals in functionally safe (SIL) environments. It offers SIL 4 rated protection at the input and SIL 2 at the output, enabling the possibility for electrically isolated communication to multiple safety control systems from a single SIL-rated component. This makes P16800 an ideal fit for safety circuits in hydrogen systems, where signal integrity and safety are non-negotiable.

Originally developed for the duplication of functionally safe speed signals in critical braking circuits onboard trains, the P16800 has also proven highly effective in a number of more industrial use cases, as seen within hydrogen production and fuel cell monitoring. Whether a signal needs to be duplicated and brought to redundant safety controllers, or a SIL device output is to be used for two unique applications, the P16800 ensures lossless duplication without any altering of the original signal. Because of the SIL 4 rating seen at the device’s input, the functional safety of the original signal, and circuit it is used within, is maintained. The device operates as an isolated repeater and signal doubler[SA1] [CK2] , preserving the input while safely separating each output path.

P16800 Patented Technology

This high level of safety and reliability is made possible through a combination of thoughtful engineering and patented innovations - opto-coupler technology for signal transmission, shielding to guard against EMC interference, and full galvanic isolation between the input channel and each individual output. Additionally, the device isolates the power supply channel, delivering the supply voltage by way of transformers, preventing unwanted signal influence and further reinforcing its non-intrusive design.

Additional Features of the P16800

In addition to duplicating discrete signals, the P16800 also has the ability to reproduce frequency-based outputs, which has proven interesting for maximizing application possibilities tied to rotating equipment, such as motors or generators. It maintains phase and frequency information while optionally converting voltage to current signals, or current to voltage, to match downstream system requirements. It can also reduce frequency outputs at fixed ratios (2:1, 4:1, or 8:1) if needed for slower control logic. These features add to the functionality of the P16800 and further showcase its flexibility.

For hydrogen system engineers seeking to streamline safety architecture without compromising reliability, the P16800 offers a compact, cost-effective, and SIL-certified way to duplicate and route critical signals. Whether retrofitting existing systems or designing for the next generation of hydrogen infrastructure, P16800 ensures safe, flexible integration with minimal maintenance and added cost.

Contact Knick to explore how the P16800, and other Knick products, can help to solve your critical applications. Together, we can push the boundaries of what is possible with electrical measurement.