Description
Product Core Brief
- Model: PFTL101A 0.5kN
- Order code: 3BSE004160R1
- Brand: ABB
- Series: ABB Pressductor Pillow Block load cell
- Core Function: Horizontal web tension load cell using magnetoelastic measurement, converting roller force into a stable signal for tension monitoring and closed-loop control.
- Product Type: Pillow Block tension load cell / horizontal force sensor
- Key Specs: Rated load 0.5 kN | accuracy class 0.5% FS | repeatability <±0.05% FS | deflection 0.015 mm | overload capacity 500% | horizontal measurement direction | compatible with PFEA111/PFEA112/PFEA113 tension electronics
- Condition: New Original / New Surplus
Key Technical Specifications
- Order code: 3BSE004160R1
- Product designation: PFTL101A 0.5kN Pressductor Pillow Block load cell
- Rated load: 0.5 kN (≈50 kgf / 500 N)
- Measuring direction: Horizontal force only
- Measuring principle: Magnetoelastic / Pressductor
- Accuracy class: 0.5% FS
- Repeatability: <±0.05% FS
- Hysteresis: ±0.03% FS
- Deflection: 0.015 mm
- Overload capacity: 500% of nominal load
- Sensor output: Passive dual-coil sensor element; requires ABB PFEA tension electronics for 4–20 mA / 0–10 V output
- Typical applications: Paper machines, film/foil lines, printing, coating, laminating, slitting, winding/unwinding, and low-tension converting stations
- Compatible electronics: ABB PFEA111, PFEA112, PFEA113 and related tension electronics
- Note: Exact wiring, excitation, and signal scaling should be confirmed from the ABB nameplate or product documentation
Product Introduction
The ABB PFTL101A 0.5kN 3BSE004160R1 is a Pressductor Pillow Block load cell designed for horizontal web tension measurement. It uses ABB’s magnetoelastic technology to measure the force transmitted from the web through the roller, then delivers a stable signal to the tension electronics for monitoring, display, and control.
With a rated load of 0.5 kN, this unit is suitable for low-tension applications such as narrow web lines, film handling, foil processing, label lines, coating stations, and precision winding. Its 0.015 mm deflection and 0.5% FS accuracy help maintain stable tension readings during acceleration, deceleration, and splicing. The 500% overload capacity provides strong protection against web breaks, roller shocks, and mechanical overloads.
PFTL101A is a passive sensor and must be paired with ABB PFEA-series tension electronics. It is not a standalone transmitter. Before replacement, confirm the installed load cell model, rated capacity, mounting arrangement, and associated PFEA module.
QA & Testing SOP
- Order code verification: Confirm PFTL101A, 0.5kN, and 3BSE004160R1 on the nameplate.
- Visual inspection: Check the load cell body, cable/connector, mounting surface, and bearing seats for damage or corrosion.
- Coil resistance check: Measure sensor coil resistance according to ABB documentation to confirm no open or short circuit.
- Insulation check: Verify insulation between coils and the sensor body to rule out moisture ingress or cable damage.
- System test: Connect to the correct PFEA tension electronics, apply rated or known load conditions, and verify stable tension display and analog output.
Installation Pitfalls & Guide
❗ Confirm measuring direction. PFTL101A measures horizontal force only. Incorrect mounting angle or vertical loading will cause inaccurate tension readings.
❗ Match the rated capacity. A 0.5 kN cell must match the roller load, wrap angle, and expected web tension. Overloading or underloading reduces accuracy and may damage the installation.
❗ Do not replace with strain-gauge load cells directly. Pressductor sensors have different wiring, excitation, and signal processing requirements.
❗ Verify the PFEA electronics model. PFTL101A must be connected to compatible ABB tension electronics such as PFEA111/PFEA112/PFEA113.
❗ Protect cables and connectors. Shielded sensor cables should be routed away from VFDs, motors, and high-current lines to reduce electromagnetic interference.
Replacement steps:
- Pre-install: Record the existing load cell model, capacity, wiring, PFEA parameters, and zero/span settings.
- Removal: Isolate power, disconnect sensor cables, remove the roller load, and take out the old load cell.
- Install: Mount the new PFTL101A 0.5kN with correct orientation, bearing alignment, and horizontal force transfer.
- Commissioning: Reconnect to PFEA electronics, perform zeroing, verify analog output, and validate tension readings before returning to production.
Technical FAQ
Is 3BSE004160R1 the correct order code for PFTL101A 0.5kN? Yes, 3BSE004160R1 is widely listed as the order code for ABB PFTL101A 0.5kN. Always confirm the full designation on the existing nameplate.
Can PFTL101A 0.5kN replace PFTL101A 1kN or 2kN directly? Not without verification. Different capacities change the signal level and tension scaling. The PFEA electronics parameters and mechanical load conditions must be checked first.
Which tension electronics are compatible? It is typically used with ABB PFEA111, PFEA112, PFEA113 and related tension electronics. The exact module depends on the installed system.
Do you offer price flexibility? Yes. Pricing depends on condition, revision visibility, 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 incorrect installation, mechanical overload, wiring errors, or parameter mismatch. Final terms are confirmed on the quotation.




