Description
The ABB PFEA112-20 (Part Number: 3BSE050091R20) is a high-performance Tension Electronics controller from the Tension Readiness series. It is designed to process signals from Pressductor® tension load cells, providing accurate and reliable web tension measurement for demanding industrial applications like paper, film, and metal processing.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
- Model Number: PFEA112-20
- Part Number: 3BSE050091R20
- Input Channels: 2 Channels (Supports up to two load cells)
- Communication: PROFIBUS-DP (High-speed fieldbus interface)
- Analog Outputs: 2 x 0–10 V / 0–20 mA (Configurable)
- Digital Inputs/Outputs: 4 x DI (e.g., Zero set, Gain select), 4 x DO (e.g., Status, Alarms)
- Display: 2-line x 16-character backlit LCD
- Power Supply: 24 V DC (18–35 V DC)
- Protection Rating: IP20 (DIN-rail mounted)
- Accuracy: < 0.05% of full scale

ABB PFEA112-20 3BSE050091R20

ABB PFEA112-20 3BSE050091R20

ABB PFEA112-20 3BSE050091R20
Country of Origin
This precision tension controller is engineered and manufactured by ABB Force Measurement in Sweden, ensuring high quality and long-term durability for industrial environments.
Application Fields
The PFEA112-20 is essential for web-handling processes where precise tension control prevents material breakage or quality defects:
- Paper & Board Mills: Controlling tension on winding and slitting machines.
- Metal Processing: Managing strip tension in rolling mills and coating lines.
- Plastic & Film Industry: Maintaining stability in thin-film extrusion and laminating.
- Printing Presses: Ensuring registration accuracy by stabilizing web tension.
- Textile Manufacturing: Coordinating tension in dyeing and finishing processes.
Product Usage Instructions
- Mounting: Snap the unit onto a standard 35mm DIN rail within a protected control cabinet.
- Load Cell Connection: Connect the ABB Pressductor® load cells to the input terminals. The PFEA112-20 provides the excitation current and processes the return signal.
- Fieldbus Integration: Connect the PROFIBUS-DP cable to the dedicated port. Configure the GSD file in your PLC (e.g., AC800M or Siemens S7) to map the tension data.
- Calibration: Use the front-panel display and keypad to enter the roll weight, wrap angle, and required tension units. Perform a “Zero Set” with the web removed.
- Output Scaling: Define the analog output range (4–20 mA or 0–10 V) to correspond to the tension range (e.g., 0–1000 N).
Product Technical Description
The PFEA112-20 utilizes ABB’s proprietary Pressductor® technology, which is based on the magneto-elastic effect. Unlike strain gauge load cells, these sensors are virtually indestructible and immune to overloads. The PFEA112-20 controller filters the signal to eliminate mechanical vibrations and machine noise, providing a “clean” tension value to the control system. The “-20” version is specifically the PROFIBUS-enabled variant, allowing for seamless integration into digital automation architectures. It includes advanced diagnostic functions that monitor the health of the load cells and the communication link, ensuring high system uptime.
Q&A (Common Questions)
- Q: What is the difference between the PFEA111 and the PFEA112?
- A: The PFEA111 is a basic version with analog outputs only. The PFEA112 (like this model) adds fieldbus communication (PROFIBUS) and more advanced I/O capabilities.
- Q: Can I use this with non-ABB load cells?
- A: The PFEA series is specifically optimized for ABB Pressductor® load cells. Using third-party strain gauge cells would typically require a different type of amplifier.
- Q: Does it support redundant PROFIBUS?
- A: No, the PFEA112-20 supports standard PROFIBUS-DP. For redundant networks, specialized external gateways may be required.
- Q: How do I handle a “Load Cell Error” on the display?
- A: Check the excitation cable for continuity. This error usually indicates a break in the wiring between the controller and the sensor.
Similar Model Recommendations
- ABB PFEA111-20: Analog-only tension electronics.
- ABB PFEA113-20: IP65-rated version for harsh environments.
- ABB PFCL201: Radial load cell often used with this controller.
- ABB PFTL101: Horizontal load cell compatible with PFEA units.
- ABB PFVA101: Tension control for rolling mill applications.
For technical manuals or to request a quote for the ABB PFEA112-20, please contact our force measurement specialists.

