ABB PFTL301E 1.0 kN (3BSE019050R1000) – Pressductor tension load cell for stable web/strip tension measurement

The ABB PFTL301E 1.0 kN is a magnetoelastic Pressductor tension load cell designed for precise, drift‑stable web and strip tension measurement. From my experience, this series is chosen when you need repeatable readings in fast-running lines where vibration, temperature changes, and overloads are part of daily life. The 1.0 kN rating fits light to medium web tensions—typical for plastic film, paper converting, battery foil, fine strip metals, and textile lines. You might notice that it pairs best with ABB tension electronics for dependable excitation and signal conditioning.

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Key Features

• Pressductor magnetoelastic principle – Delivers stable measurements with minimal drift, even when temperature and vibration fluctuate.
• 1.0 kN nominal load – Suited for lighter web tensions on paper, film, foil, and fine strip applications.
• High overload tolerance – Typically survives short-term overloads far better than strain-gauge cells, reducing unplanned downtime.
• Pillow‑block/roll mounting – Installs at bearing supports around measuring rollers; compact footprint simplifies retrofit.
• Pairs with ABB tension electronics – The sensor is passive; excitation and conditioning are provided by ABB electronics for mA/V or fieldbus outputs.
• Robust, sealed construction – Designed for industrial environments with humidity, dust, and mechanical shock in many cases.

Technical Specifications

Brand / Model	ABB PFTL301E 1.0 kN (Order code: 3BSE019050R1000)
Product Type	Pressductor magnetoelastic tension load cell (pillow‑block mounting)
HS Code	9031.80 (measuring/checking instruments; final code may vary by region)
Nominal Load	1.0 kN
Power Requirements	Passive sensor; excitation and signal conditioning provided by matched ABB tension electronics
Operating Temperature	Typically −10 to +80 °C for this series (check specific ABB datasheet for confirmation)
Signal I/O (Sensor)	Magnetoelastic coil interface to ABB tension electronics; final 4–20 mA / ±10 V available via paired electronics
Communication Interfaces	None on sensor; fieldbus/ethernet options depend on the selected ABB tension electronics
Installation Method	Pillow‑block / roll bearing mount; left or right frame side; horizontal or vertical measuring direction depending on setup
Typical Protection	Sealed, robust body suitable for industrial environments (rating depends on variant)

Application Fields

The PFTL301E 1.0 kN is commonly used in:

• Paper converting and printing presses – tension control on lead-in, coating, and rewind sections.
• Plastic film & flexible packaging – stable tension for thin films and laminates where stretch must be minimized.
• Battery foil and copper/aluminum strip – precise web tension during slitting and coating lines.
• Textile and nonwoven lines – consistent tension for delicate fabrics and spunbond materials.
• Light metal strip processing – when accurate feedback is needed before/after straighteners and accumulators.

One thing I appreciate is how forgiving this sensor is when a line accelerates or a splice passes the measuring roll—the readings settle quickly, which helps keep drives and brakes under control.

Advantages & Value

• Reliability – Pressductor technology is inherently robust; it typically resists overload and shock better than conventional strain‑gauge cells.
• Compatibility – Works with ABB tension electronics for straightforward integration to PLCs via analog or field networks.
• Cost control – Fewer sensor replacements and less drift-based recalibration means lower maintenance costs over time.
• Supportability – ABB’s long-running platform and clear wiring practices make spares planning and commissioning simpler.

Installation & Maintenance

• Mounting – Install at the roll bearing supports (pillow‑blocks). Ensure the measuring direction aligns with the web force vector. Use the supplied orientation marks where applicable.
• Cabinet & wiring – Place ABB tension electronics in a ventilated control cabinet (IEC/UL‑rated). Use shielded cabling and earth properly at a single point to minimize noise.
• Safety – Lock out/tag out the line before mechanical work. Verify load capacity (1.0 kN) is suitable for the roller and web combination, including peak events.
• Routine checks – Inspect mounting bolts for torque, look for cable abrasion, and keep the area clear of debris. Zero and span verification with a known test load or electronic simulation is recommended on a scheduled basis.
• Firmware & calibration – Any firmware updates or scaling adjustments are done in the paired ABB tension electronics; back up parameters after commissioning.

Quality & Certifications

• Manufacturer quality system typically aligned with ISO 9001.
• CE marking and RoHS conformity are common for this series; specific certificate set available on request.
• Manufacturer’s standard warranty applies; we provide a 365‑day warranty for supplied units.

Helpful Pairings (supporting components)

For a complete tension control loop, this sensor is typically paired with ABB tension electronics (for example, PFEA series) to deliver 4–20 mA or ±10 V signals to your PLC/drive. In many cases customers add an ABB tension controller and a pneumatic or electric brake/drive to close the loop with precise setpoint control.