Woodward Unveils Next-Gen Digital Control Module 8440-1713/D to Drive Industrial and Aerospace Innovation

Fort Collins, Colorado – [03-02-2023] – Woodward, Inc. (NASDAQ: WWD), a global leader in precision control systems for aerospace, energy, and industrial markets, announced today the launch of its Model 8440-1713/D, an ultra-reliable digital control module engineered to optimize performance in mission-critical applications ranging from gas turbines to unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Product Overview

The 8440-1713/D is a fully digital, software-configurable control unit designed to deliver unparalleled accuracy in managing complex hydraulic, fuel, and electromechanical systems. Key applications include:

• Aerospace: Flight control actuation and engine health monitoring for commercial aircraft and drones.
• Energy: Turbine governing and load management in combined-cycle power plants.
• Industrial: Automation of heavy machinery in oil, gas, and mining operations.

Technical Advancements

• Robust Performance:
  • Operates in extreme conditions (-40°C to +85°C) with MIL-STD-810H shock/vibration resistance.
  • Real-time processing via dual-core ARM Cortex-R52 processors.
• Smart Diagnostics:
  • Embedded AI algorithms for predictive fault detection, reducing unplanned downtime by up to 25%.
  • Wireless firmware updates via Woodward CloudConnect™ platform.
• Sustainability Integration:
  • Supports hydrogen and synthetic fuel compatibility, aligning with net-zero emission goals.
  • 30% reduction in energy consumption compared to legacy analog systems.

Market Relevance

As industries face escalating demands for automation and decarbonization, the 8440-1713/D provides a scalable solution. “This module bridges the gap between digital transformation and operational safety,” said Dr. Emily Carter, Woodward’s Chief Technology Officer. “Its cybersecurity framework, compliant with NIST 800-171, ensures resilience against evolving threats.”

Early adopters in the aviation sector have validated the module’s capabilities, achieving 15% faster response times in flight control systems during high-altitude testing. The energy industry also stands to benefit, with pilot projects demonstrating a 20% improvement in turbine load-following efficiency.

Availability and Support

• Release: Available for pre-order in Q3 2024, with bulk order discounts for OEM partners.
• Certifications: FAA EASA.21G, IEC 61508 SIL 2, ATEX/IECEx for hazardous environments.
• Customization: Optional redundancy configurations and SAE AS6802 time-triggered Ethernet support.