The ABB PFEA113-20 (Part Number: 3BSE050092R20) is a high-performance, microprocessor-based tension electronics unit designed for demanding industrial applications. It is part of the PFEA series, specifically engineered to interface with ABB’s Pressductor® load cells to provide precise, reliable measurement of web tension in continuous processing lines.
Product Introduction
The PFEA113-20 serves as the intelligence center for tension measurement systems. It supplies the excitation current to the load cells and processes the resulting low-level signals into standardized analog and digital outputs. This module is designed for “blind” operation (without a front-panel display), intended to be mounted within a control cabinet and interfaced via a Distributed Control System (DCS) or Human-Machine Interface (HMI).
Utilizing ABB’s unique Pressductor technology—which relies on the magneto-elastic effect—the PFEA113-20 offers exceptional immunity to electrical interference and mechanical vibrations, making it the industry standard for paper mills, steel rolling facilities, and converting plants.
ABB PFEA111-20
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
| Parameter | Specification |
| Model Number | PFEA113-20 |
| Product ID | 3BSE050092R20 |
| Version | -20 (Cabinet Version, IP20) |
| Number of Channels | 2 Independent Channels (Supports 2 Load Cells) |
| Load Cell Compatibility | All ABB Pressductor Load Cells (PFTL/PFCL series) |
| Power Supply | 24V DC (18 – 36 V DC) |
| Power Consumption | Max 8 W |
| Analog Outputs | 2 x 0–10 V or 0/4–20 mA (Configurable) |
| Digital Inputs/Outputs | 2 Digital Inputs, 2 Digital Outputs (Relay) |
| Communication | Profibus-DP (Integrated) |
| Accuracy | < 0.1% of Full Scale |
| Operating Temp | 0°C to +55°C |
| Enclosure Rating | IP20 (Requires cabinet mounting) |
Country of Origin
- Origin: Sweden
ABB’s Force Measurement division is headquartered in Västerås, Sweden. All PFEA113 units are manufactured and calibrated there to ensure compliance with global quality standards for heavy industrial instrumentation.
Technical Description & Features
- Pressductor Technology: Unlike strain-gauge systems, the PFEA113-20 provides a high-level AC signal to the load cells, which eliminates the need for sensitive pre-amplifiers near the machine and prevents signal degradation over long distances.
- Profibus-DP Integration: The “-20” variant includes a built-in Profibus-DP interface, allowing for high-speed digital integration of tension values, diagnostic data, and parameter settings directly into the plant’s automation network.
- High Dynamic Response: The module features rapid update rates for the analog outputs, which is critical for closed-loop tension control in high-speed winding and unwinding applications.
- Built-in Self-Diagnostics: The electronics continuously monitor the health of the load cell cables and the internal circuitry. If a fault is detected (e.g., a broken wire), a digital output is triggered to prevent equipment damage.
Product Usage Instructions
1. Mounting and Installation
The PFEA113-20 is a DIN-rail mounted unit. Ensure it is installed in a clean, ventilated industrial cabinet. Maintain at least 10mm of space between adjacent modules to prevent thermal buildup.
2. Wiring
- Load Cells: Connect the ABB Pressductor load cells using shielded, twisted-pair cables. Ground the shield at the PFEA113-20 side only to avoid ground loops.
- Power: Use a stabilized 24V DC power source.
- Profibus: Connect the Profibus cable to the Sub-D 9-pin connector. Ensure the bus is correctly terminated at the last physical node.
3. Calibration
Calibration is performed via the Profibus network or by using a temporary local display unit (if available).
- Zero Set: Performed with the roller in place but without the web (material) tension.
- Span Set: Performed by hanging a known weight over the roller to simulate actual web tension.
Product Related News
- Modernization of Paper Mills: The PFEA113-20 has recently been selected as the primary upgrade component for several major European paper mills moving away from legacy analog tension meters to fully digital, Profibus-integrated systems.
- Sustainability Initiatives: By providing more accurate tension control, the 3BSE050092R20 is helping manufacturers reduce material waste (web breaks) and energy consumption during high-speed production cycles.
- Enhanced Availability: ABB has increased its stock of the PFEA113 series in North American and Asian hubs to provide faster emergency replacement support for critical manufacturing infrastructure.
Common Problems Q&A
Q: Can I use the PFEA113-20 with third-party strain-gauge load cells? A: No. This module is exclusively designed for ABB Pressductor (magneto-elastic) load cells. It provides an AC excitation that is incompatible with DC-bridge strain-gauge sensors.
Q: What is the difference between PFEA111 and PFEA113? A: The PFEA111 is a basic version with limited I/O and no Fieldbus. The PFEA113 (including the 113-20) is the advanced version featuring Profibus-DP and expanded diagnostic capabilities.
Q: Why is my Profibus communication failing? A: Check the node address settings on the module. Ensure the GSD (General Station Description) file is correctly installed in your PLC hardware configuration and that the physical bus termination is correct.
Q: Does this module have a display? A: The PFEA113-20 is the cabinet version without a built-in display. If you require a local display and keypad, the PFEA113-65 (IP65 version) is the appropriate alternative.
Recommended Related ABB Models
- ABB PFTL101B: A common horizontal load cell used with the PFEA113-20.
- ABB PFCL201C: A vertical load cell for measuring tension in upright configurations.
- ABB PFEA113-65 (3BSE050092R65): The IP65 field-mount version with a built-in display.
- ABB PFVA401: A higher-tier tension controller for multi-roll systems.
- ABB 3BSE008516R1: Associated I/O baseplates for legacy system integrations.
