Description
Product Core Brief
- Model: PFCL201C 20KN
- Order code: 3BSE023409R20
- Brand: ABB
- Series: Pressductor Pillow Block Load Cells PFCL201
- Core Function: Vertical force load cell for strip tension measurement in rolling mills and processing lines.
- Product Type: Pressductor vertical load cell / strip tension load cell
- Key Specs: 20 kN nominal load | 30 kN extended load | 200 kN overload capacity in measurement direction | Pressductor magnetoelastic technology | Stainless steel body | Cannon connector | IP65/IP67 typical | -10°C to +90°C operating range
- Condition: New Original / New Surplus
Key Technical Specifications
- Order code: 3BSE023409R20
- Product designation: PFCL201C 20KN vertical load cell
- Measuring direction: Vertical
- Nominal load: 20.0 kN / 4500 Lbs.
- Extended load: 30.0 kN / 6750 Lbs.
- Permitted transverse load: 10.0 kN / 2250 Lbs.
- Overload capacity in measurement direction: 200.0 kN / 45000 Lbs.
- Overload capacity in transverse direction: 50.0 kN / 11250 Lbs.
- Deflection at nominal load: 0.02 mm
- Spring constant: 1000 kN/mm
- Accuracy class: 0.5%
- Repeatability error: <±0.05%
- Measurement technology: Pressductor magnetoelastic effect
- Body material: Stainless steel SIS2387 / X4CrNiMo165
- Connector type: Cannon connector
- Working temperature range: -10°C to +90°C
- Weight: approx. 35 kg
- Typical applications: Hot/cold rolling mills, galvanizing lines, pickling lines, annealing lines, continuous processing lines
Product Introduction
The ABB PFCL201C 20KN 3BSE023409R20 is a Pressductor pillow block load cell designed for vertical force measurement in strip tension systems. It is typically installed beneath roll bearing housings to measure the vertical force component generated by strip tension.
Built from a single block of stainless steel, the PFCL201C uses ABB’s Pressductor magnetoelastic technology, which generates measurement signals through changes in magnetic fields rather than physical deformation. This gives it exceptional overload tolerance — up to 10 times the nominal load — and virtually unlimited load cycle life.
The “C” variant is equipped with a Cannon connector for the connection cable, making it suitable for standard processing line environments. It pairs with ABB tension electronics such as PFEA111, PFEA112, PFEA113, or the Millmate Controller 400 (PFCA401) for signal processing and closed-loop tension control.
QA & Testing SOP
- Order code verification: Confirm PFCL201C, 20KN, and 3BSE023409R20 on the nameplate. Verify the “C” suffix indicates Cannon connector type.
- Visual inspection: Check the stainless steel body for corrosion, impact damage, or surface contamination. Inspect the Cannon connector for bent pins or damage.
- Mechanical inspection: Verify the mounting surfaces are clean and undamaged. Check for signs of overloading such as permanent deformation.
- Cable and connector check: Inspect the connection cable for cuts, abrasion, or insulation damage. Verify continuity and insulation resistance of the cable.
- Electrical verification: Measure coil resistance and insulation resistance per the technical manual. Full functional testing requires connection to a compatible ABB tension controller such as PFEA111 or PFCA401.
Installation Pitfalls & Guide
❗ Confirm the load cell variant. PFCL201 has three versions: PFCL201C with Cannon connector, PFCL201CD with acid-resistant PTFE cable, and PFCL201CE with fixed cable in protective hose for mill-duty environments. Ensure the correct variant for your application.
❗ Verify the rated capacity matches the application. The 20 kN nominal load must align with the actual tension forces in the system. Using an incorrect capacity can cause measurement errors or overload damage.
❗ Install with correct orientation. PFCL201C measures vertical force only. Installing it at the wrong angle or under incorrect mechanical arrangement will produce inaccurate readings.
❗ Protect the connector and cable. The Cannon connector must be kept clean and dry. Damaged cables or corroded connectors cause signal loss and measurement drift.
❗ Match the controller settings. The tension controller must be configured with the correct nominal load (20 kN), wrap angle, and calibration parameters for accurate tension display.
Replacement steps:
- Pre-install: Record existing cable routing, controller parameters, and mechanical arrangement. Back up controller configuration.
- Removal: Isolate the roll assembly if required, disconnect the Cannon connector, unbolt the load cell, and remove it carefully.
- Install: Clean mounting surfaces, position the new load cell, bolt to specification, and reconnect the Cannon connector.
- Commissioning: Verify controller settings match 20 kN nominal load, perform zero calibration, check signal direction, and confirm tension readings before returning to production.
Technical FAQ
Is 3BSE023409R20 the correct order code for PFCL201C 20KN? Yes, 3BSE023409R20 corresponds to PFCL201C 20KN. Note that PFCL201 load cells may use different order code series depending on production batch, so always confirm against the nameplate.
Can PFCL201C be replaced with PFCL201CE or PFCL201CD? Mechanically they share the same dimensions, but the cable connection type differs. PFCL201C uses a Cannon connector, PFCL201CE has a fixed cable in protective hose for mill environments, and PFCL201CD has acid-resistant PTFE cable. Substitution requires verifying cable length and environmental suitability.
What controller is compatible with PFCL201C? It is compatible with ABB PFEA111, PFEA112, PFEA113 tension electronics and the Millmate Controller 400 (PFCA401). The controller must be configured for the correct nominal load and wrap angle.
Do you offer price flexibility? Yes. Pricing depends on condition, quantity, and urgency. New original stock and tested surplus units are quoted separately.
What warranty is included? Typical coverage is 12 months from delivery for functional defects, excluding damage from incorrect installation, overload, or controller configuration issues. Final terms are confirmed on the quotation.



