Description
PXAH401: Product Overview
The ABB PXAH401 (part number: 3BSE017235R1) is an industrial operator unit from ABB’s Millmate series, designed for process control applications in industries such as steel manufacturing, printing, and packaging. As a core component of the Millmate ecosystem, it acts as a bridge between operators and industrial equipment, providing real-time process data and enabling manual control when needed.
Role in Automation Systems:
Positioned as a “local control interface” in Millmate systems, the PXAH401 performs three primary functions:
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Process Monitoring: Displays real-time values of process variables (e.g., tension in a rolling mill, speed of a conveyor belt) via its LCD screen, allowing operators to quickly assess system status.
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Manual Control: Enables operators to send commands to field devices (e.g., start/stop a motor, adjust a valve) using the unit’s keypad, providing a backup to automated control systems.
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Alarm Management: Triggers visual/audible alarms for abnormal conditions (e.g., over-tension, equipment failure), prompting operators to take corrective action.
Core Functionality:
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Digital/Analog I/O Integration: Supports 8 digital inputs (for limit switches, pushbuttons), 4 analog inputs (for sensors like tension transducers), and 2 analog outputs (for actuators like valve positioners), making it versatile for diverse field device requirements.
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Communication Capability: Uses Modbus RTU (RS-485) to communicate with ABB’s higher-level control systems (e.g., AC 800M PLCs), ensuring seamless data exchange between the operator unit and the central controller.
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User-Friendly Interface: Features a 5.7-inch monochrome LCD with backlighting for clear visibility in low-light environments, plus a keypad for menu navigation and command input.
Platform Benefits (Millmate Series):
The PXAH401 leverages ABB’s Millmate platform, which is renowned for:
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Reliability: Industrial-grade components and a rugged design ensure 24/7 operation in harsh environments (e.g., high temperature, vibration).
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Scalability: Can be expanded with additional I/O modules to accommodate growing process requirements.
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Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Millmate components (e.g., tension controllers, speed regulators), reducing setup time and effort.
ABB PXAH401
Technical Specifications
Model Number: PXAH401 (3BSE017235R1)
Manufacturer: ABB
Product Type: Industrial Operator Unit
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I/O Channels:
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8 digital input (DI) channels (24 V DC, sink/source)
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4 analog input (AI) channels (4–20 mA, 0–10 V DC)
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2 analog output (AO) channels (4–20 mA DC)
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Communication Protocols: Modbus RTU (RS-485), ABB Millmate proprietary protocol
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Display: 5.7-inch monochrome LCD (backlit), 320 x 240 pixel resolution
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Keypad: 12-key membrane keypad (numeric/function keys)
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Power Supply: 24 V DC (±10%), 50 mA max
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Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to 140°F)
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Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F)
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Humidity: 5–95% non-condensing
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Dimensions (W×H×D): 200 mm × 150 mm × 50 mm (7.87 in × 5.91 in × 1.97 in)
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Weight: 0.8 kg (1.76 lbs)
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Certifications: CE, UL (inferred from ABB industrial product standards)
Core Features & Customer Value
1. Real-Time Process Monitoring:
The PXAH401’s 5.7-inch LCD displays real-time process variables (e.g., tension, speed) with a 320 x 240 pixel resolution, allowing operators to quickly identify deviations from setpoints. For example, in a steel rolling mill, this feature enables operators to monitor the tension of the steel strip and adjust the rollers accordingly, ensuring consistent product quality.
2. Flexible I/O Integration:
With 8 digital inputs, 4 analog inputs, and 2 analog outputs, the PXAH401 adapts to diverse field device requirements. In a printing press, for instance, the digital inputs can connect to limit switches (to detect paper jams), while the analog inputs can connect to tension transducers (to monitor web tension). This flexibility reduces the need for additional I/O modules, saving costs and simplifying system design.
3. Reliable Communication:
The Modbus RTU (RS-485) protocol ensures seamless communication with ABB’s higher-level control systems (e.g., AC 800M PLCs). This allows operators to access process data from the central controller and send commands to field devices, ensuring coordinated control between the operator unit and the automation system.
4. Rugged Design for Harsh Environments:
The PXAH401’s industrial-grade design (e.g., rugged housing, wide temperature range) ensures reliable operation in harsh environments. In a steel mill, for example, the unit can withstand high temperatures and vibration, maintaining communication with field devices and providing accurate process data to operators.
ABB PXAH401
Typical Applications
The ABB PXAH401 is widely used in industries requiring local process control and monitoring:
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Steel Manufacturing:
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Monitors tension in rolling mills and controls roller adjustments.
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Example: In a hot strip mill, the PXAH401 displays the tension of the steel strip and allows operators to adjust the rollers to maintain consistent thickness.
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Printing and Packaging:
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Controls web tension in printing presses and monitors registration.
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Example: In a newspaper printing press, the PXAH401 monitors the tension of the paper web and sends commands to the tension controller to prevent wrinkles or breaks.
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Material Handling:
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Monitors conveyor belt speed and controls motor start/stop.
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Example: In a warehouse, the PXAH401 displays the speed of the conveyor belt and allows operators to start/stop the belt manually if needed.
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