Description
The ABB PFEA111-20 (Part Number 3BSE050090R20) is a high-performance Tension Electronics unit from the Tension Electronics PFEA series. It is designed to process signals from ABB’s PillowBlock and Radial load cells, providing precise web tension measurement for industrial processing lines like paper, film, and textile manufacturing.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
- Model Number: PFEA111-20
- Part Number: 3BSE050090R20
- Protection Class: IP20 (Designed for cabinet mounting)
- Supply Voltage: 24 VDC (Nominal)
- Number of Load Cell Inputs: Supports up to 2 load cells
- Output Signals: * 1x Analog Output (0-10V or 0/4-20mA for tension level)
- 1x Digital Output (Status/Level trigger)
- Communication: Profibus DP-V0 interface for digital integration
- Display: Integrated 4-digit LED display for local tension monitoring
- Mounting: DIN rail mounting (Standard 35mm)
- Accuracy: Better than 0.05% of rated capacity
Country of Origin
This unit is engineered and manufactured by ABB AB in Sweden, specifically within their Force Measurement division (Västerås).

ABB PFEA111-20 3BSE050090R20

ABB PFEA111-20 3BSE050090R20

ABB PFEA111-20 3BSE050090R20
Application Fields
The PFEA111-20 is essential for maintaining consistent material quality in tension-sensitive processes:
- Pulp & Paper: Monitoring web tension in paper machines and rewinders.
- Converting & Printing: Controlling film and foil tension to prevent stretching or tearing.
- Textiles: Managing yarn and fabric tension through dyeing and finishing ranges.
- Metal Processing: Tracking tension in thin-gauge strip steel or aluminum lines.
- Labeling & Packaging: Ensuring precise tension for high-speed adhesive application.
Product Usage Instructions
- Installation: Snap the unit onto a DIN rail inside a protective electrical cabinet. Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the unit to prevent heat buildup.
- Load Cell Wiring: Connect the load cells to the specific input terminals. Use shielded, twisted-pair cables to prevent electrical noise from corrupting the low-voltage signals from the load cells.
- Power Up: Supply 24V DC to the power terminals. The LED display should light up and show the current software version before entering run mode.
- Calibration: Perform a “Zero” calibration with the web off the roll. Then, use a known weight (Hung-weight method) to perform the “Span” calibration to ensure the digital output matches the physical tension.
- Integration: Configure the Profibus address using the onboard menu if connecting to a PLC (like an AC 800M). Map the analog output to your drive system for tension-controlled speed regulation.
Product Technical Description
Technically, the PFEA111-20 is a signal conditioner and controller in one. It provides the excitation voltage required by the load cells and then amplifies and filters the resulting millivolt-level feedback. The unit features advanced digital filtering that can be adjusted to “smooth out” mechanical vibrations from the machine, ensuring the tension reading is stable even at high speeds. Unlike the PFEA112 model (which is for 4 load cells), the PFEA111 is optimized for standard two-load-cell configurations. Its IP20 rating means it must be housed in a dust-free environment, typically a control panel, rather than mounted directly on the machine frame.
Q&A (Common Questions)
Q: Can I use this unit with non-ABB load cells? A: While optimized for ABB’s Pressductor® and strain-gauge load cells, the PFEA111 can technically be calibrated for other load cells provided they meet the unit’s input sensitivity requirements.
Q: What is the difference between the PFEA111 and PFEA112? A: The PFEA111 is the standard version (2 inputs, IP20), while the PFEA112 is the “Advanced” version which supports more inputs, has a higher level of functionality, and is often available in higher IP-rated enclosures.
Q: Why is my display flashing “OVER”? A: This usually indicates that the signal from the load cells is exceeding the calibrated range or that a load cell is physically overloaded. Check for mechanical binding or incorrect calibration constants.
Q: Does it support Modbus TCP? A: This specific model (PFEA111-20) focuses on Profibus DP. For Ethernet-based protocols, you would typically use a gateway or look for a newer generation ABB tension controller.
Similar Model Recommendations
- ABB PFEA112-20 (Advanced version for 4 load cells)
- ABB PFEA113-20 (IP65 version for machine mounting)
- ABB PFCL201 (Compatible Radial Load Cell)
- ABB PFTL101 (Compatible PillowBlock Load Cell)
- ABB 3BSE028140R0020 (Legacy Tension Electronics)
For technical support or to procure the ABB PFEA111-20, please contact our force measurement specialists.
