Solving Pressure Challenges in Heat Exchangers with PCM303D Technology
From: Issued date 2025.04.10 Back
In modern industrial processes, heat exchangers play a crucial role in efficiently transferring heat from one fluid to another without direct contact. To maintain optimal performance, safety, and longevity of these systems, reliable pressure monitoring is essential. Pressure sensors and transmitters must withstand demanding conditions, including high temperatures, aggressive media, and vibration, while ensuring consistent and accurate output. The PCM303D pressure transmitter from WTsensor has been engineered precisely for such challenges, offering robust performance, versatile configuration options, and exceptional reliability across a range of heat exchanger applications
✅ Why PCM303D Works Well for Heat Exchangers-Key Technical Highlights
✔ Broad Pressure Range:
Covers from vacuum (-100kPa) up to 100MPa, so you can select an appropriate range based on the system — e.g., cooling water, steam, refrigerant, oil.
✔ High Durability & Resistance:
Vibration & shock resistant – ideal since many heat exchangers are mounted on vibrating machinery or piping.
IP65 protection – safe from dust and water jets, suitable for industrial environments.
✔ Good Temperature Tolerance:
Medium temp up to 105°C is enough for water, oil, or glycol systems.
If used with steam, consider adding a cooling element (e.g., siphon tube or cooling adapter) to protect the sensor.
✔ Output Signal:
4–20mA is standard and reliable for long-distance wiring to PLCs, DCS, or building automation systems.
Explosion-proof version available if required in hazardous zones.
✔ Compact Design:
Small, lightweight, easy to install even in tight spots on pipework or exchanger bodies.
Application on Heat Exchangers
Typical Installation Locations:
· Inlet & Outlet of both shell side and tube side (detect fouling or blockage via differential pressure).
· Can also be used to monitor pump performance feeding the exchanger.
Important Considerations:
Factor | Recommendation |
Media | Should be compatible with 304 stainless steel |
Process connection | Verify the fitting size (e.g., G1/2, NPT) and add sealing tape/paste |
Pressure range selection | Choose a range where your working pressure is between 25–75% of full scale, for best accuracy |
Temperature protection | Use cooling adapters if above 105°C |
Wiring | Use shielded cable and proper grounding for EMC reliability |
PCM303D Pressure Transmitter – Heat Exchanger Application Guide
Model Overview
Model: PCM303D
Output: 4–20mA (Two-wire), with optional Exia II CT6 Ga explosion-proof
Process Connection: Standard G1/2 or 1/4"NPT (customizable)
Material: SS304 wetted parts, fully sealed stainless steel body
Protection: IP65, EMC-compliant, Vibration & Shock Resistant
Temperature Range: Medium -30°C to 105°C (Cooling adapter required for higher temps)
Application Configuration Table
Application | Medium | Typical Pressure Range | Medium Temp | Recommended Config | Remarks |
Cooling Water (shell/tube side) | Water / Glycol | 0–6 bar (0–0.6MPa) | 10–60°C | PCM303D–0.6MPa–G1/2–4~20mA | Standard config |
Hot Water System | Water | 0–10 bar (0–1.0MPa) | 60–90°C | PCM303D–1.0MPa–G1/2–4~20mA | Temp is within spec |
Steam (with cooling adapter) | Steam | 0–16 bar (0–1.6MPa) | 110–150°C | PCM303D–1.6MPa–G1/2–4~20mA + cooling adapter | Cooling adapter required |
Oil-Cooled System | Thermal Oil | 0–25 bar (0–2.5MPa) | 50–120°C | PCM303D–2.5MPa–G1/2–4~20mA + cooling adapter | Verify oil compatibility |
Refrigerant | R134a / R410A / Ammonia | -1 to 4 bar (e.g., -100kPa to 0.4MPa) | -10–60°C | PCM303D–0.4MPa–G1/2–4~20mA | Use sealed gauge version |
High-Pressure Heat Exchanger | Compressed gas, oil | 0–40 bar (0–4.0MPa) | 30–80°C | PCM303D–4.0MPa–G1/2–4~20mA | Select suitable pressure overload rating |
Vacuum Jacketed Systems | Vacuum (negative pressure) | -100kPa to 0 | -10–60°C | PCM303D–(-1000kPa)–G1/2–420mA | Use gauge or absolute version |
Accessories & Options
Accessory | Purpose |
Cooling Adapter / Heat Sink | Required if medium >105°C (e.g., for steam or thermal oil) |
Signal Cable (Shielded) | Improves EMC stability in industrial environments |
Differential Pressure Setup (2 transmitters) | For fouling/clog detection by comparing inlet/outlet pressures |
Flanged Adapter / Welded Base | Available for custom mechanical installations |
Chemical Compatibility Reminder
Ensure the measured media is compatible with 304 stainless steel. For strong corrosives or chlorides, consider a diaphragm seal or 316L version (if available upon request).
As industrial systems continue to demand higher efficiency and reliability, accurate pressure monitoring becomes even more critical. The PCM303D pressure transmitter from WTsensor delivers dependable performance across a broad spectrum of heat exchanger applications—from chilled water to high-pressure steam systems. Its rugged construction, flexible configuration, and proven field reliability make it a preferred solution for OEMs and system integrators alike.
Whether retrofitting an existing installation or designing a new heat exchanger system, choosing the PCM303D ensures accurate, durable, and efficient pressure measurement—contributing to safer operations and reduced maintenance over time.
This article Tags: pressure sensor pressure transmitter
Back to List