ABB 81EU01E-E

Description

Product Description

The ABB 81EU01E-E is a Signal Conditioner or Isolator Transmitter from ABB’s extensive range of measurement and analytical instrumentation, specifically within their “E” series or similar compact modular families. This device is designed to accept a standard process input signal and convert it into an isolated, conditioned output signal suitable for transmission to control systems. The primary function of the 81EU01E-E is to provide galvanic isolation between field wiring and sensitive control room equipment, protecting against ground loops, electrical noise, and voltage transients. It can also perform signal conversion (e.g., from a resistance or millivolt signal to a 4-20 mA current) and linearization. The compact, DIN-rail mountable design of the ABB 81EU01E-E makes it a versatile and essential component for ensuring signal integrity in process control loops across various industries.

Product Parameters

• Device Type: Signal Isolator / Conditioner / Transmitter
• Input Signal: Configurable for various inputs; common types include:
  • Thermocouple (TC) types (J, K, S, etc.)
  • Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) (Pt100, Pt1000)
  • DC Voltage (mV, V)
  • DC Current (mA)
  • Potentiometer or resistance
• Output Signal: Typically a standard 4-20 mA two-wire current output, electrically isolated from the input.
• Power Supply: Loop-powered (2-wire) or externally powered (4-wire), depending on the specific variant. Loop-powered versions derive energy from the output current loop.
• Isolation: High galvanic isolation between input, output, and power supply (typically 1.5 kV or higher).
• Accuracy: High accuracy, typically in the range of ±0.1% of span.
• Configuration: Often configurable via DIP switches, potentiometers, or a simple USB/push-button interface for setting input type, range, and output characteristics.
• Housing: Slim, plastic or metal housing for DIN-rail mounting (35mm).
• Operating Temperature: Standard industrial range (e.g., -20°C to +60°C).
• Certifications: Typically carries CE, ATEX/IECEx for hazardous areas, and other relevant industrial approvals.

Advantages and Features

• Superior Signal Integrity and Protection: The ABB 81EU01E-E effectively breaks ground loops and suppresses electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring the signal received by the PLC or DCS is clean, stable, and accurate.
• Versatility and Easy Configuration: Its support for multiple input types makes it a single, flexible solution for many different sensors, reducing spare part inventory. Simple configuration methods allow for quick setup and changes in the field.
• Compact and Space-Efficient: The slim design allows for high-density mounting on DIN rails within control panels, saving valuable cabinet space.
• High Reliability and Durability: Built with industrial-grade components and designed for continuous operation in harsh environments, ensuring long-term stability and minimal maintenance.
• Safety in Hazardous Areas: Available versions with intrinsic safety (IS) or explosion-proof (Ex d) certifications allow safe installation in Division/Zone 1 and 2 hazardous locations, protecting entire control loops.

Application Cases in Various Fields

• Chemical Processing: Isolating and converting signals from thermocouples in reactor vessels or RTDs in pipeline temperatures before they enter the plant DCS.
• Power Generation: Conditioning mV signals from flow meters or pressure transmitters in boiler feedwater systems, protecting the signals from noise generated by large motors and switchgear.
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Providing isolated 4-20 mA signals from critical temperature and pressure sensors in clean rooms to the batch control system.
• Water and Wastewater Treatment: Converting signals from pH, ORP, or conductivity sensors located in wet, corrosive environments for reliable transmission to the SCADA system.
• HVAC Building Management: Isolating signals from temperature sensors in air handling units to prevent noise from VFDs from affecting building control algorithms.

Comparisons with Competing Products

1. Vs. Generic/Unbranded Isolators: While cheaper, generic isolators often lack the proven accuracy, long-term stability, comprehensive safety certifications, and global technical support offered by the ABB 81EU01E-E. ABB’s device is part of a trusted, engineered solution.
2. Vs. Other Major Brand Isolators (e.g., Siemens, Pepperl+Fuchs, Weidmüller): Competitors offer similar high-quality devices. The 81EU01E-E is competitive in terms of performance, features, and price. Choice may depend on existing brand preference in a plant, specific certification requirements, or compatibility with configuration tools.
3. Vs. PLC Integrated Analog Inputs: Some PLCs have “isolated” input cards, but their isolation rating and common-mode rejection are often inferior to a dedicated device like the ABB 81EU01E-E. Using an external isolator provides better protection for the more expensive PLC and allows for signal conversion.
4. Key Differentiator: Its strength lies in ABB’s strong reputation in process instrumentation, offering a reliable, versatile, and application-aware isolator that is part of a broader ecosystem of measurement and control products.

Selection Suggestions and Precautions

1. Precisely Define Input and Output: Determine the exact sensor type (e.g., K-type TC, 3-wire Pt100), its measurement range, and the required output (e.g., 4-20 mA corresponding to 0-100°C). Select the 81EU01E-E variant that matches these specifications.
2. Choose the Correct Powering Scheme: Decide if a loop-powered (2-wire) or externally powered (4-wire) model is needed based on the control system’s analog input card capabilities and available power.
3. Consider the Installation Environment: Select the appropriate housing material (plastic for general use, metal for harsher environments) and ensure the device has the necessary certifications (e.g., ATEX) if installed in a hazardous area.
4. Correct Wiring and Grounding: Follow the wiring diagram meticulously. For optimal noise rejection, use shielded twisted-pair cables for both input and output, and ground the shield at one end only (typically at the isolator or control system end).
5. Configuration and Calibration: After wiring, correctly configure the input type and range using the DIP switches or software tool. For critical measurements, verify the accuracy with a calibrator at zero and span points.
6. Prevent Overloading: Ensure the loop load (the total resistance of the output wire plus the PLC input impedance) does not exceed the maximum load specification of the ABB 81EU01E-E isolator, or the output current will drop.
7. Plan for Accessibility and Spares: Install the device where it can be accessed for configuration checks or replacement. For critical loops, keeping a pre-configured spare on hand can minimize downtime.

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