Critical Technical Advantages
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Vacuum-Proof Ceramic Sensor: The capacitive ceramic cell is designed to be fully vacuum-proof. Unlike metallic diaphragms that can be permanently deformed by vacuum, the ultra-hard Ceraphire membrane remains stable, ensuring reliability in distillation columns or vacuum extraction processes.
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Integrated Breakage Detection: For enhanced process safety, the PMC51 features active membrane breakage detection. If the ceramic sensor is physically damaged, the device immediately signals an error, preventing undetected measurement failures in critical safety loops.
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High Purity and Resistance: The 99.9% Al2O3 ceramic sensor is virtually inert to corrosive chemicals and highly resistant to abrasive particles. It is also condensation-resistant, which is vital for cold-water applications in warm, humid hygienic environments.
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Safety by Design: The device is certified to SIL2 according to IEC 61508 and IEC 61511, making it suitable for use in safety instrumented systems. It also offers a “Platinum” accuracy grade of ±0.075% for high-precision requirements.
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Flexible Installation: Available with a wide range of process connections—including threads, flanges, and various hygienic fittings—and the option for factory-mounted, leak-tested manifolds to simplify onsite installation.
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User-Friendly Operation: Menu-guided commissioning via the local display or digital protocols (HART, PROFIBUS PA, FOUNDATION Fieldbus) allows for a quick setup and reduced maintenance time.
Technical Performance Matrix
| Feature | Details |
| Measuring Principle | Capacitive Ceramic (Oil-free) |
| Measurement Type | Absolute or Gauge Pressure |
| Accuracy | ±0.1% (Standard) / ±0.075% (Platinum) |
| Measuring Range | -1/0 to +40 bar (-15/0 to +600 psi) |
| Process Temperature | -40 to +130°C (150°C for 1h for sterilization) |
| Housing Material | Aluminum or 316L Stainless Steel |
| Safety Rating | SIL2 / IEC 61508 |
Primary Applications
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Vacuum Distillation: Reliable pressure measurement in columns where absolute vacuum is present.
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Hygienic Level Measurement: Measuring the volume or mass of liquids in food and beverage or pharmaceutical tanks where SIP/CIP processes occur.
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Corrosive Fluid Monitoring: Handling aggressive acids or bases that would degrade standard stainless steel diaphragms.
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Slurries and Abrasive Media: Monitoring flow and pressure in mining or chemical processes involving particulate matter.
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Safety Systems: Serving as a reliable sensor in SIL2-rated safety loops for overpressure or underpressure protection.
