Pressure/flow control unit with Endress+Hauser Proline Prowirl D 200 vortex flowmeter and Cerabar PMC11 pressure transmitter

The Endress+Hauser Cerabar PMC11 is a highly versatile and compact electronic pressure transmitter designed for a vast array of general-purpose applications across numerous industries. It serves as a reliable and cost-effective solution for measuring the pressure of liquids, gases, and steam where high accuracy is beneficial but the extreme performance of premium models like the PMP50 is not required. The PMC11 strikes an excellent balance between essential functionality, rugged durability, and ease of use, making it one of the most widely deployed pressure transmitters in fields such as water and wastewater, food and beverage, chemical processing, HVAC, and machine building.

The foundational technology of the Cerabar PMC11 is based on a thin-film ceramic sensor, a hallmark of the Cerabar series. This sensor, known for its robustness, consists of a fixed ceramic base and a flexible ceramic diaphragm that forms a capacitive cell. When process pressure is applied, the diaphragm deflects minutely, altering the capacitance between it and the base electrode. This change is detected by the onboard electronics and converted into a highly precise and stable pressure reading. The ceramic material is exceptionally resistant to corrosion, abrasion, and clogging from particulates or viscous media. This inherent durability minimizes the risk of sensor damage and ensures long-term measurement stability with minimal drift, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or recalibration.

1. Compact and Versatile Design: The PMC11 features an extremely compact and lightweight housing. This small form factor allows for easy installation in spaces with severe limitations, directly on process connections like measurement cells or manifolds, or directly onto processes via an optional bracket kit. Its versatility is further highlighted by its ability to measure both gauge pressure (PMC71) and absolute pressure (PMC75), catering to a broad spectrum of application needs.
2. User-Friendly Operation: A significant advantage of the PMC11 is its simplicity. It is equipped with a large, clear, and rotatable LCD display (up to 350°) that provides excellent visibility from any angle. Configuration is intuitive and can be performed locally using just two buttons on the unit, without the need to open the housing. This eliminates the risk of compromising the high ingress protection rating (IP65 / IP67 / Type 4X) during setup.
3. Robust Construction and Safety: Built to withstand demanding industrial environments, the transmitter housing is typically made of stainless steel. The process connection is also available in stainless steel or, for highly corrosive media, optional materials like Hastelloy C4. The PMC11 complies with essential international standards and can carry certifications for use in hazardous areas (ATEX, IECEx), making it safe for a wide operational footprint.
4. Advanced Communication and Diagnostics: The transmitter outputs a standard 4...20 mA analog signal with simultaneous digital communication via the ubiquitous HART protocol (Version 7). This allows for advanced configuration, troubleshooting, and diagnostics using a hand-held communicator or asset management software. While not as extensive as the PMP50's diagnostics, the PMC11 still provides vital monitoring of its operational status.
5. Application Flexibility: The Cerabar PMC11 is a true all-rounder. Its sensor technology makes it suitable for a wide range of media, from clean water and compressed air to aggressive chemicals and saturated steam. Common applications include filter monitoring, pump control, leak detection, hydraulic and pneumatic system pressure measurement, and level measurement in open or closed tanks (when calculated using pressure).

In summary, the Endress+Hauser Cerabar PMC11 is an exceptionally reliable and adaptable workhorse in the world of pressure measurement. It successfully translates the renowned durability of ceramic sensor technology into a compact, user-friendly, and economically attractive package. It may not have the top-tier accuracy or advanced safety certifications of its premium siblings, but it delivers more than enough performance and robustness for the vast majority of industrial applications. For engineers and technicians seeking a dependable, no-fuss pressure transmitter that is easy to install, configure, and maintain, the Cerabar PMC11 remains a perennial and trusted choice.