Flow control valve assembly with Endress+Hauser Proline Prowirl R 200 vortex flowmeter and Deltabar PMD55B pressure transmitter.

The Endress+Hauser Cerabar PMD55B is a sophisticated differential pressure transmitter designed for critical process applications requiring exceptional measurement accuracy and reliability. As part of Endress+Hauser's premium instrument portfolio, this device combines advanced sensor technology with intelligent functionality to deliver superior performance in demanding industrial environments. The PMD55B is specifically engineered for precise pressure difference measurement across various applications including flow measurement, level detection in closed tanks, and filter monitoring in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

At the heart of the Cerabar PMD55B lies Endress+Hauser's proven Ceracore sensor technology, featuring a single-crystal silicon sensor element. This advanced sensor operates on the piezoresistive principle, where pressure-induced strain in the silicon crystal structure causes measurable changes in electrical resistance. The sensor consists of a thin, flexible silicon diaphragm with integrated strain gauges arranged in a Wheatstone bridge configuration. When differential pressure is applied across the diaphragm, the resulting deformation creates a proportional electrical output signal. This technology provides exceptional accuracy, excellent dynamic response, and minimal temperature sensitivity. The all-welded, oil-free sensor assembly ensures long-term stability and eliminates potential leak points, making it suitable for handling aggressive media and maintaining measurement integrity over extended periods.

1. Exceptional Measurement Performance: The PMD55B delivers outstanding accuracy, typically within ±0.04% of the calibrated span, with options for even higher precision available. The device maintains excellent stability and repeatability, with long-term drift characteristics of less than 0.1% of URL per year. Its advanced signal processing capabilities ensure reliable measurements even under challenging conditions including rapid pressure changes, temperature fluctuations, and varying process media properties.

2. Advanced Safety and Certification: The transmitter is designed to meet the most stringent safety requirements, with SIL 2 certification according to IEC 61508/61511 standards. It features comprehensive built-in self-diagnostics that continuously monitor device health and process conditions. The robust construction includes welded stainless steel housings and multiple diaphragm options (Hastelloy, tantalum, gold) for corrosion resistance. The device carries international certifications for hazardous area applications (ATEX, IECEx, FM) and meets NAMUR recommendations for process industry applications.

3. Intelligent Functionality and Diagnostics: The PMD55B incorporates Endress+Hauser's Heartbeat Technology, providing continuous self-monitoring and verification capabilities. This includes automatic detection of sensor malfunctions, electronics failures, and process anomalies such as impulse line blockages or leaks. The technology enables predictive maintenance strategies, reduces downtime, and ensures compliance with safety instrumented system requirements without necessitating manual intervention.

4. Flexible Communication and Integration: Supporting all major digital communication protocols including 4...20 mA HART, PROFIBUS PA, Foundation Fieldbus, and MODBUS RS485, the PMD55B ensures seamless integration into any automation architecture. The device features a rotatable, high-contrast LCD display with intuitive menu navigation and multiple language support. Configuration can be performed locally using magnetic pushbuttons or remotely via asset management systems using the Device Description (DD) or EDDL files.

5. Application-Specific Capabilities: The transmitter offers specialized functions for various application scenarios. For flow measurement, it provides square root extraction and customizable characterization curves. For level applications, it features built-in density compensation and temperature correction algorithms. The device handles a wide range of differential pressures from a few mbar to 400 bar, with static pressure capabilities up to 400 bar ANSI and temperature ranges from -40 to 120°C process temperature.

The PMD55B offers impressive technical characteristics including a total performance error of ≤ ±0.15% of span (including effects of temperature, static pressure, and hysteresis), a response time configurable from 100 ms to 36 seconds, and a turndown ratio of 100:1. The device maintains reference accuracy of 0.04% under reference conditions, with excellent overpressure protection up to 400% of the calibrated range.

Designed for easy installation and minimal maintenance, the PMD55B features a compact, lightweight design with flexible mounting options. The continuous self-diagnostics and verification capabilities significantly reduce maintenance requirements while ensuring ongoing measurement reliability. When service is needed, the intuitive interface and comprehensive diagnostic information simplify troubleshooting and minimize downtime.

The Endress+Hauser Cerabar PMD55B represents the pinnacle of differential pressure measurement technology, combining unparalleled accuracy with robust construction and intelligent functionality. Its advanced sensor technology, comprehensive safety features, and sophisticated diagnostic capabilities make it an ideal choice for the most demanding process applications where measurement reliability and plant safety are paramount. Whether used in safety instrumented systems, custody transfer applications, or critical process control loops, the PMD55B delivers exceptional performance that helps optimize processes, ensure operational safety, and maximize plant availability while reducing total cost of ownership through its minimal maintenance requirements and long-term stability.