Product Core Brief
- Model: PFTL101A-0.5
- Order Number: 3BSE004160R1
- Brand: ABB
- Series: Pressductor PillowBlock horizontal tension load cell
- Core Function: Measures horizontal web tension for closed-loop tension control in paper, film, foil, metal strip, and wire processing lines.
- Product Type: Magnetoelastic pillow block load cell
- Key Specs: 0.5 kN (≈50 kgf) | horizontal force measurement | 500% overload capacity | accuracy 0.5% FS | IP20 standard version
- Condition: New Surplus / New Original (subject to available stock)
Product Introduction
The ABB PFTL101A 3BSE004160R1 is a Pressductor PillowBlock horizontal tension load cell rated at 0.5 kN. It is designed for web processing applications where low tension must be measured with high repeatability and minimal drift.
Instead of strain gauges, this unit uses ABB’s magnetoelastic measurement principle. The internal alloy steel block changes its magnetic properties under mechanical stress, producing a signal proportional to the applied horizontal force. This design delivers strong overload resistance, long service life, and stable performance in paper machines, film lines, metal processing, and wire/cable equipment. The standard PFTL101A version is rated IP20 and is intended for dry, clean industrial environments.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | -0.5 |
| Order Number | 3BSE004160R1 |
| Product Type | Pressductor PillowBlock horizontal tension load cell |
| Rated Load | 0.5 kN (≈500 N, ≈50 kgf) |
| Measurement Direction | Horizontal lateral force |
| Accuracy Class | 0.5% FS |
| Repeatability | < ±0.05% FS |
| Hysteresis | ±0.03% FS |
| Overload Capacity | 500% of nominal load (horizontal) |
| Deflection | ~0.015 mm |
| Typical Excitation | 5–12 V DC (commonly 10 V DC) |
| Sensitivity | ~2.0 mV/V |
| Typical Output | 4–20 mA when used with a PFEA/PFCA amplifier |
| Operating Temperature | -30 °C to +80 °C |
| Protection Rating | IP20 (standard PFTL101A) |
| Body Material | Stainless/carbon steel pillow block (verify per nameplate) |
| Typical Connection | M12 connector / 4-core shielded cable |
| Typical Applications | Paper, film, foil, metal strip, wire/cable tension control |
Note: Exact wiring, amplifier pairing, and signal scaling must be confirmed from the OEM manual and site configuration.
Quality Control Process
- Verify PFTL101A 3BSE004160R1 on the nameplate and confirm the 0.5 kN rating.
- Inspect the pillow block measuring surfaces, housing, M12 connector, and cable for mechanical damage or corrosion.
- Check coil resistance and insulation with a multimeter to confirm no open circuits or shorted windings.
- Apply controlled horizontal force and verify linear signal response with a compatible PFEA/PFCA amplifier or signal conditioner.
- Confirm zero stability, repeatability, and anti-static packaging before dispatch.
Replacement Pitfall Guide
- Do not install it as a vertical weighing sensor. The PFTL101A measures horizontal force only; vertical load will not produce a correct tension signal.
- Confirm the 0.5 kN range. Replacing it with a 1.0 kN or 2.0 kN unit without recalibration will shift the measurement scale and may degrade low-tension accuracy.
- Check the environment rating. The standard PFTL101A is IP20. If the site has water spray, acid mist, or high humidity, the AE/AER variants may be required.
- Verify amplifier compatibility. This load cell typically requires a PFEA/PFCA control unit for excitation and signal conversion; direct PLC analog input connection is not always valid.
Keep these in mind and you’ll cut 90% of rework time.
Compatibility Matrix & Benchmarks
| Original Model | Replacement / Successor Model | Compatibility Level | Migration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABB -0.5 3BSE004160R1 | ABB -0.5 3BSE004160R1 | Direct | Match order number, range, and cable/connector type. |
| ABB -0.5 3BSE004160R1 | ABB PFTL101AE-0.5 | Needs Adaptation | Fixed-cable version; verify IP rating and cable length. |
| .5 3BSE004160R1 | ABB PFTL101AER-0.5 | Needs Adaptation | Acid-resistant, higher IP rating; confirm mechanical fit and wiring. |
| .5 3BSE004160R1 | ABB PFTL101A-1.0 / 2.0 | Needs Adaptation | Different rated load; requires recalibration and system verification. |
| .5 3BSE004160R1 | Generic strain-gauge load cell | Not Recommended | Different measurement principle, mounting, and signal behavior. |
Benchmark notes:
- Rated load: 0.5 kN, accuracy 0.5% FS, repeatability < ±0.05% FS.
- Overload capacity: up to 500% in the horizontal measurement direction.
