ABB PFTL101A-0.5KN Pressductor Load Cell for Precise Web Tension on Narrow Rolls

The ABB PFTL101A-0.5KN is a compact Pressductor load cell designed for accurate, stable tension measurement on light-duty rolls—think narrow webs, films, foils, textiles, and lithium battery separators. From my experience, this model shines where low force ranges and repeatability matter, especially in applications that tend to be sensitive to temperature drift or mechanical vibration. One thing I appreciate is how ABB’s magnetoelastic (Pressductor) principle resists overload and off-axis effects better than typical foil strain gauges, so you get reliable readings even when real-world mounting isn’t perfectly ideal.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Lead time: 1 week if in stock; no more than 1 month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery
• Express delivery: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• 0.5 kN rated capacity – Suited for low-tension zones on narrow or delicate webs where over-sizing typically hurts accuracy.
• Pressductor magnetoelastic technology – Delivers stable measurements with low drift; seems to be notably tolerant to misalignment and side loads.
• Pillow-block integration – Mounts between machine frame and roll bearing housing, making retrofits straightforward in many cases.
• High overload tolerance – Typically handles short, unintended peaks better than conventional strain-gauge cells.
• Robust in production environments – Good immunity to vibration and thermal shifts; a practical fit for converting lines and coaters.
• Works with ABB PFEA tension electronics – Pair with PFEA modules to obtain industry-standard outputs (0–10 V, 4–20 mA) and diagnostics.

Technical Specifications

Typical use cases include low-tension stations on label lines, precision film coating, and foil handling before slitting. One packaging customer put it simply: “We got steadier readings during acceleration and fewer tension alarms at splice.” You might notice that the sensor pays off most when paired with correctly tuned PFEA electronics and a clean mechanical layout.

Related or Supporting Products

• ABB PFTL101A-1KN / -2KN / -5KN – Same form factor with higher capacities; choose based on roll load and wrap angle.
• ABB PFTL201A Series – For medium to higher tensions; typically used on wider webs or heavier rolls.
• ABB PFEA 111 / PFEA 113 Tension Electronics – Signal conditioning and outputs (0–10 V / 4–20 mA); PFEA 113 typically adds more diagnostics and interface options.
• Mounting accessories and cabling – Shielded sensor cables and adapter plates to match existing pillow-block dimensions.

Installation & Maintenance

• Mounting – Install between the machine frame and bearing housing in the load direction. Surfaces should be flat and rigid; avoid soft shims that creep over time.
• Alignment – Keep the force path as axial as possible. Small misalignments are tolerated, but precise alignment usually improves linearity.
• Wiring – Use shielded, twisted-pair cabling from sensor to PFEA electronics. Route away from high-frequency drives to minimize noise.
• Electronics placement – House PFEA modules in a ventilated control cabinet; 24 VDC supply with stable grounding is recommended.
• Safety – Lockout/tagout before mechanical work. Do not weld on the machine with the load cell connected.
• Calibration – Perform zero and span via the PFEA. In most cases, a reference roll load or a known web tension method (wrap-angle/force) is used.
• Routine checks – Inspect mounting bolts, cable strain relief, and connector tightness quarterly. Clean around the sensor to prevent buildup that may bias readings.
• Firmware/updates – If using PFEA 113, keep firmware current for improved diagnostics and stability.

Quality & Certifications

• CE compliant; RoHS compliant
• Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• Warranty: 365 days from shipment