Description
Product Overview
The ABB PFTL301E-1.0KN is designed for industrial tension measurement where a moving web, strip, or sheet must maintain a controlled force as it passes over rollers. Typical equipment includes paper-processing lines, film and foil converting machinery, winders, unwinders, and metal-strip handling systems. The load cell mounts at a roller bearing support and measures the horizontal force component associated with material tension. This arrangement is especially useful when the roller assembly is relatively heavy but the material tension being measured is low.
The sensor uses ABB Pressductor technology, based on the magnetoelastic effect. Mechanical force changes the magnetic properties of the sensing material, producing an electrical measurement signal. Because measurement does not depend on conventional strain-gauge deformation, the technology is suited to repeated load cycles in continuous production environments. The PFTL301E has a nominal measuring capacity of 1.0 kN (approximately 225 lbf), with an accuracy class of ±1.0%, linearity deviation below ±0.5%, repeatability error below ±0.1%, and hysteresis below ±0.3%, according to ABB’s technical documentation.
For replacement projects, the important checks go beyond the part number. Confirm the measuring direction, rated capacity, roller-bearing geometry, installation height, mounting arrangement, and compatibility with the installed tension-measurement electronics. The load cell itself should not be assumed to provide a direct 4–20 mA or 0–10 V output; system electronics are generally required to process its measurement signal. ABB documentation identifies the PFEA series as compatible tension-electronics equipment for relevant PFTL load-cell installations.
Before ordering, verify that the existing unit is the PFTL301E 1.0 kN horizontal model, not a different capacity or a vertical-force version. Confirm the condition of the cable, connector or termination, mounting surfaces, and any adapter plates. For used or surplus stock, request clear nameplate photographs and a documented functional test rather than relying on a visual inspection alone.
Product Introduction
The ABB PFTL301E-1.0KN (3BSE019050R1000) is a horizontal pillow block load cell for industrial web-tension measurement. Its 1.0 kN measuring capacity is suited to applications requiring accurate feedback at relatively low tension levels, including paper, film, and strip-processing lines.
The sensor is intended to work as part of a complete tension-control system. Correct mechanical alignment and suitable signal-processing electronics are essential to obtain useful readings. During replacement, match the model, load capacity, measuring direction, mounting geometry, and connected electronics before commissioning.
Key Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product model | PFTL301E-1.0KN |
| Order number | 3BSE019050R1000 |
| Manufacturer | ABB |
| Product type | Pressductor pillow block load cell |
| Product family | PFTL301E Horizontal Mini Series |
| Nominal measuring load | 1.0 kN (approximately 225 lbf) |
| Extended measuring load | 1.5 kN, with ±2% accuracy class for bidirectional measurement |
| Maximum load in measuring direction without permanent change | 3.0 kN |
| Measurement direction | Horizontal force component |
| Measurement principle | Magnetoelastic Pressductor technology |
| Accuracy class | ±1.0% |
| Linearity deviation | Less than ±0.5% |
| Repeatability error | Less than ±0.1% |
| Hysteresis | Less than ±0.3% |
| Working temperature | −10°C to +80°C |
| Compensated temperature range | +20°C to +60°C |
| Protection rating | IP66 |
| Load-cell material | Stainless steel, ABB specification SS 2387 / DIN X4CrNiMo 165 |
| Weight | Approximately 2.5 kg without adapter plates; 5.4 kg with adapter plates |
| Mounting | Pillow block / bearing-support installation; confirm actual assembly dimensions |
| Signal interface | Requires compatible tension-measurement electronics; verify the installed system |
| Working voltage | Not specified as a direct supply-voltage input for the load cell; verify system electronics |
| Communication protocol | Not applicable as a standalone digital fieldbus device |
| Installation method | Mechanical mounting at the roller-bearing support |
| Dimensions | Refer to ABB drawing 3BSE019040D0094, revision C |
Technical note: The IP66 rating and temperature limits above come from ABB documentation for the . Do not substitute generic supplier listings that claim IP67, 24 VDC direct operation, or an integrated 4–20 mA output without confirming that those details apply to the exact configuration.

PFTL301E-1.0KN 3BSE019050R1000
Related Products
Check the installed system documentation before treating any related item as a direct substitute.
- ABB load-cell variants: Other nominal capacities in the same model family include 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 kN. Capacity changes require application review.
- ABB PFEA111 tension electronics: A tension-measurement electronics option documented for PFTL load-cell installations. Verify the specific hardware and software configuration.
- ABB PFEA112 tension electronics: Another model in ABB’s PFEA tension-electronics range; check channel count, configuration, and system compatibility.
- ABB PFEA122 tension electronics: Listed in ABB’s tension-electronics manual covering installation and application design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does the ABB -1.0KN measure?
It measures horizontal force associated with web tension in continuous material-processing systems. It is not a general-purpose pressure sensor.
Q2: What does the 1.0 kN rating mean?
It is the nominal load in the specified measuring direction. It is approximately 225 lbf. The allowable load depends on direction and the conditions stated in ABB’s technical tables.
Q3: Can this load cell connect directly to a PLC analog input?
Do not assume so. Confirm the output and excitation requirements of the actual load-cell configuration and the installed tension electronics. A compatible tension amplifier or controller may be required.
Q4: Can a different capacity replace the 1.0 kN version?
Not automatically. The replacement must be assessed against the operating tension range, overload conditions, mechanical mounting, and measurement requirements. A higher nominal capacity does not necessarily provide equivalent measurement performance at low loads.
Q5: What should be checked before commissioning a replacement?
Verify the complete part number, measuring direction, mounting geometry, cable condition, wiring and electronics compatibility, and mechanical alignment. After installation, follow the plant’s calibration and functional-check procedure.
Q6: What should buyers request for surplus or used stock?
Request nameplate photographs, confirmation of the full order code, a clear statement of stock condition, cable and connector photographs, and test documentation. Ask whether testing verifies the measurement function or only confirms physical condition.
Procurement Recommendation
For a replacement purchase, specify ABB -1.0KN, 3BSE019050R1000 and confirm the exact nameplate and mounting configuration before release. The main risks are incorrect measuring direction, a mismatched load capacity, damaged cable assemblies, and incompatibility with existing tension electronics.
For new, unused surplus, or refurbished stock, obtain written confirmation of condition, warranty terms, dispatch lead time, and the scope of functional testing. Treat any claim of direct 4–20 mA output or a different protection rating as unverified until it is supported by documentation for the exact supplied unit.
