Description
Product Core Brief
- Model: PFEA113-20
- Order Code: 3BSE028144R0020
- Brand: ABB
- Series: Pressductor® Tension Electronics
- Core Function: 4-channel tension measurement amplifier and controller with Profibus-DP communication
- Product Type: Tension Controller / Amplifier Unit (IP20 DIN-rail)
- Key Specs: 24V DC supply | 4 load cell inputs | 6 analog outputs | Profibus-DP | PID control | 20 mV/V input range | IP20
- Condition: New Original / New Surplus (verify per listing)
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Model | |
| Order Code | 3BSE028144R0020 |
| Power Supply | 24V DC (18–36V), approx. 12 W |
| Number of Load Cell Inputs | 4 (Channel A/B/C/D) |
| Load Cell Excitation | 0.5 A rms, 330 Hz AC |
| Input Range | Up to 20 mV/V (suffix “-20” = standard signal range) |
| Analog Outputs | 6 configurable (0–10V / 4–20mA) |
| Analog Inputs | 2 |
| Digital Inputs | 1 (remote zero / gain scheduling) |
| Digital Outputs | 4 (alarm / status) |
| Communication | Profibus-DP (RS485), RS232 debug port |
| Display | 2×16 character multi-language LCD |
| Control Mode | Built-in PID tension control |
| Digital Filter | 5/15/30/75/250/750/1500 ms selectable |
| Response Time | < 10 ms |
| Measurement Accuracy | ±0.1% FS |
| Mounting | DIN-rail IP20 |
| Operating Temperature | Approx. 0–55 °C |
Note: Exact I/O configuration and communication options depend on the hardware revision. Confirm against the nameplate and ABB datasheet before commissioning.
Product Introduction
The ABB PFEA113-20 (3BSE028144R0020) is the highest-capacity model in ABB’s Pressductor tension electronics family, supporting up to 4 load cell inputs and 6 configurable analog outputs — significantly more than the 2-channel PFEA111/PFEA112 series. It combines excitation, signal conditioning, tension calculation, analog output, and closed-loop PID control in one compact DIN-rail unit with integrated Profibus-DP communication.
The “113” designation indicates the 4-channel, multi-I/O architecture; the “-20” suffix denotes the standard 20 mV/V input range (compared with the PFEA113-65’s 65 mV/V range). Up to 3 units can be cascaded to build a 12-sensor segmented roll control system, making it suitable for complex multi-zone tension applications in paper machines, metal strip lines, film converting, foil processing, and lithium battery electrode coating lines.
For MRO buyers, this unit is typically replaced when a line experiences unstable tension readings, loss of Profibus communication, analog output drift, or display faults. Because it handles both measurement and closed-loop control across multiple sensors, a faulty unit can directly cause web breaks, tension drift, or uncontrolled roll torque.
QA & Testing SOP
- Nameplate verification — Confirm model PFEA113-20 and order code 3BSE028144R0020. The -20 and -65 versions have different input ranges and are not always interchangeable without parameter adjustment.
- Visual inspection — Check terminal blocks, display, keys, enclosure seals, and DIN-rail clips for damage or corrosion.
- Power-up test — Apply 24V DC and confirm LCD startup, LED indicators, and absence of fault codes.
- Load cell excitation check — Verify that the 330 Hz AC excitation output is present at all sensor terminals.
- Analog output test — Simulate sensor input and verify all 6 analog outputs track correctly.
- Profibus-DP communication check — Verify node address, baud rate, GSD file compatibility, and register readback.
- PID output verification — Confirm that the control output responds to setpoint changes and tension deviation across all channels.
All units ship in anti-static packaging with foam protection. A test log can be provided on request.
Installation Pitfalls & Guide
Confirm -20 vs. -65 before replacement. The PFEA113-20 supports up to 20 mV/V input range, while the -65 version handles up to 65 mV/V. Swapping between them may require re-scaling and re-calibration.
Confirm IP20 vs. IP65 mounting. The -20 is a DIN-rail IP20 unit for cabinet mounting, not a field-mount IP65 enclosure. Ensure the installation environment matches.
Match the load cell type. The PFEA113-20 is designed for ABB Pressductor sensors (PFCL/PFTL/PFRL series). It is not a generic strain-gauge transmitter.
Check cable resistance. The total loop resistance of sensor cables must stay within the specified limit (max. 10 Ω for 4 sensors); excessive cable length or poor terminations can cause unstable readings.
Shielding and grounding are critical. Route sensor cables away from VFD output cables, motor leads, and contactors. Ground the shield at one end to avoid ground loops.
Profibus termination and addressing. Ensure the Profibus-DP segment is properly terminated at both ends and that the node address does not conflict with other devices on the bus.
Back up parameters before swapping. If the existing unit is still partially functional, record setpoint, PID parameters, filter settings, analog output scaling, Profibus address, wrap angle gain, and nominal load for each channel.
Replacement steps:
- Power down and label all wiring.
- Photograph terminal connections and note channel assignments (A/B/C/D).
- Install the replacement unit and reconnect wiring exactly as labeled.
- Restore parameters or perform zero/gain calibration.
- Verify analog outputs, Profibus communication, and PID control response before returning the line to production.
Technical FAQ
What’s the difference between PFEA1nd ? The PFEA113-20 supports 4 load cell inputs and 6 analog outputs, compared with the PFEA112-20’s 2 inputs and 2 outputs. Both have Profibus-DP, but the PFEA113-20 is the higher-capacity model for multi-zone tension control.
Can it work with PFCL201 series sensors? Yes, when configured correctly. PFCL series vertical load cells and PFTL series horizontal load cells are commonly used with PFEA111/PFEA112/PFEA113 electronics. Confirm sensor model, range, and calibration procedure before commissioning.
What does “20” mean in PFEA113-20? It refers to the standard sensor input range (up to 20 mV/V), compared with the PFEA113-65’s 65 mV/V range.
Can I replaceth ? Possibly, but not as a blind drop-in. The wiring may be compatible, but scaling, calibration, and parameter sets usually need adjustment. Always verify with the existing application data.
Does it support fieldbus? Yes, the PFEA113-20 has built-in Profibus-DP (RS485) communication as standard, plus an RS232 debug port.
Do you stock single units? Yes. Single units are available for MRO replacement; project quantities can be quoted on request.




