The PFEA112-20 (Part Number: 3BSE030369R0020) is a high-precision tension electronics controller from ABB’s Pressductor® series. This advanced control unit is specifically designed for industrial web processing applications—such as paper mills, steel rolling, and converting lines—where maintaining exact material tension is critical for product quality and machine safety.

Technical Specifications

Product Technical Description

The PFEA112-20 is a versatile, microprocessor-based controller that processes signals from ABB Pressductor® load cells. It converts the physical force exerted on the sensors into precise electronic data for monitoring or closed-loop control.

Key Functional Features:

• Dual Load Cell Support: The -20 version provides two separate inputs, allowing for the measurement of tension on both the drive side and the tender side of a roller.

• Profibus-DP Connectivity: Unlike base models, this unit includes an integrated Profibus-DP interface, enabling seamless high-speed data integration into PLC and DCS environments.

• Built-in Diagnostics: The unit continuously monitors the load cell excitation and signal cables. Any short-circuits or broken connections are immediately reported via the digital outputs and the display.

• High Dynamic Response: Optimized for high-speed machinery, the controller features low-pass filtering and rapid processing to ensure stable tension even during acceleration or deceleration.

• User-Friendly Calibration: Calibration can be performed without external tools by entering the load cell sensitivity and the physical wrap angles directly via the front-panel display.

FAQ: Common Technical Inquiries

Q1: What is the difference between the PFEA111 and the PFEA112?A: The PFEA111 is the basic version with one load cell input and no fieldbus. The PFEA112 is the advanced version featuring two load cell inputs and the Profibus-DP communication interface.

Q2: Can I use this controller with non-ABB load cells?A: The PFEA series is specifically optimized for ABB's Pressductor® technology (magneto-elastic principle). It is generally not compatible with standard strain-gauge load cells without specialized signal converters.

Q3: How do I perform a "Zero-Set"?A: Ensure the web is not touching the roll, then navigate to the "Maintenance" menu on the display and select "Zero-Set." This compensates for the tare weight of the roll and bearings.

Q4: Does the IP20 rating allow for outdoor installation?A: No. An IP20 rating means it is protected against solid objects but has no protection against water. It must be installed inside a protected electrical cabinet.

Q5: What do the analog outputs represent?A: They can be configured to represent the total tension (sum of both cells), the difference between the two sides, or just one specific side, depending on your system requirements.