Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product ID | 3BSE004172R1 |
| ABB Type Designation | PFTL101A-2.0kN |
| Product Type | Pressductor® Load Cell |
| Rated Load | 2.0 kN |
| Measuring Principle | Magnetoelastic (Pressductor® Technology) |
| Installation Style | Pillow Block Load Cell |
| Primary Application | Web tension and force measurement |
| Typical Industries | Paper, Steel, Film, Printing, Textile, Wire & Cable |
| Net Weight | Approximately 10.5 kg |
| Country of Origin | Sweden |
| Recommended Cable | ABB 3BSE018741R15 / R30 / R50 connection cable |
Product Introduction
The ABB PFTL101A 2.0kN (3BSE004172R1) is a Pressductor® pillow block load cell designed for continuous web tension measurement in demanding industrial applications. Using ABB’s magnetoelastic sensing technology, it measures horizontal force without the fatigue issues commonly associated with strain-gauge sensors, making it suitable for continuous-duty production lines.
The sensor is widely used in paper mills, rolling mills, coating lines, printing presses, converting equipment, and wire and cable production. Its 2.0 kN measuring range makes it well suited for medium-load tension control where stable, repeatable force measurement is required.
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Relevance to this Part | Quick Check Method | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tension reading always zero | Cable disconnected or sensor failure | ✅ High | Measure sensor excitation and inspect connector | Verify cable before replacing the load cell |
| Unstable tension value | Mechanical vibration or loose mounting | ⚠️ Medium | Inspect mounting bolts and bearing housing | Retighten mounting hardware and recalibrate |
| Reading drifts during operation | Mechanical misalignment | ⚠️ Medium | Verify roller alignment and bearing condition | Correct mechanical installation |
| Controller indicates overload | Force exceeds 2.0 kN rating | ✅ High | Review operating tension and process load | Reduce load before restarting |
| Signal noise | Shielding or grounding problem | ❌ Low | Check cable shield continuity and grounding | Correct wiring before replacing sensor |
| No measurement after replacement | Incorrect amplifier configuration | ⚠️ Medium | Verify calibration parameters in the tension controller | Perform sensor calibration |
Service Note
Pressductor® load cells are extremely reliable. Most reported failures are actually caused by mechanical installation problems rather than defective sensors.
Before replacing the sensor:
- Inspect roller bearings for excessive friction.
- Verify the mounting surface is flat.
- Check cable insulation for crushing or moisture ingress.
- Measure excitation voltage from the controller.
- Recalibrate the tension measurement system after installation.
❗ Veteran Tip: I’ve seen perfectly good load cells replaced simply because the cable connector wasn’t fully seated after routine maintenance. Always check the connector first—it takes less than a minute and can save hours of unnecessary troubleshooting.
- PFTL101A 2.0kN 3BSE004172R1
- PFTL101A 2.0kN 3BSE004172R1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. What is the ABB PFTL101A 2.0kN used for?
The PFTL101A 2.0kN is a Pressductor® load cell designed to measure web tension and process force in continuous production lines. It is commonly installed on paper machines, printing presses, steel strip processing lines, and converting equipment.
Q2. What makes Pressductor® technology different from strain-gauge load cells?
Pressductor® technology measures force through changes in magnetic properties rather than strain gauges. Because there are no bonded strain gauges to fatigue over time, the sensor offers excellent durability, overload tolerance, and long-term measurement stability in harsh industrial environments.
Q3. Is the 2.0 kN rating the maximum allowable load?
The 2.0 kN value is the rated measuring capacity. Short-term overload capability is higher, but continuous operation above the rated load reduces measurement accuracy and may damage surrounding mechanical components. Always size the sensor according to the expected operating force.
Q4. Can I replace the load cell without recalibrating the tension controller?
Not recommended.
Even when replacing the sensor with an identical model, perform a zero adjustment and calibration check. Small installation differences can affect measurement accuracy.
Q5. Why do many paper mills keep this sensor in stock?
Unexpected sensor failures can stop an entire production line. Because the is used in critical tension-control loops, many maintenance teams keep one or two spare sensors available to minimize downtime.
Q6. Why is New Surplus inventory a popular choice?
New Surplus units are genuine ABB products that have never been installed but come from excess inventory rather than current production. They provide OEM quality while often reducing procurement cost and lead time.
Q7. What should I verify before ordering?
Confirm the following:
- Model: 2.0kN
- Product ID: 3BSE004172R1
- Required measuring range (2.0 kN)
- Cable length requirements (15 m, 30 m, or 50 m if purchasing a connection cable)
- Existing controller compatibility
- Mounting orientation and mechanical dimensions
Matching both the load range and mounting configuration ensures accurate force measurement and straightforward installation.
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