INFICON PGD400 Pirani Vacuum Gauge Controller
| Origin | Sweden |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | PGD400 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The INFICON PGD400 is a dedicated digital display and control unit designed exclusively for use with the INFICON PSG500 series Pirani vacuum gauge sensors. It implements thermal conductivity measurement principles—where gas thermal conductivity is correlated to pressure in the rough to medium vacuum range (typically 1 × 10−4 mbar to 1000 mbar)—to deliver stable, repeatable pressure readouts without requiring sensor recalibration during routine operation. Engineered for integration into industrial vacuum systems, the PGD400 serves as both a local operator interface and a process-critical signal conditioning module, converting the analog output of the PSG500 into standardized digital values and scalable analog voltage signals for external control systems.
Key Features
- User-selectable pressure units: Pascal (Pa), millibar (mbar), or torr—configured via front-panel push buttons without software tools
- Compact desktop form factor (144 × 90 × 45 mm) with optional 19″ rack-mount kit (PGD-RK) and panel-mount flange for OEM integration
- Isolated 0–10 V analog output proportional to measured pressure, compliant with standard PLC input specifications and compatible with chart recorders, SCADA I/O modules, and DCS analog inputs
- One fully adjustable setpoint relay (SPDT, 250 VAC/3 A) supporting on/off or hysteresis-based vacuum sequencing logic
- Automatic filament detection and sensor connection verification at power-on—prevents erroneous readings due to open-circuit or disconnected PSG500 sensors
- CE marked per Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD); UL listed to UL 61010-1 (3rd edition) for laboratory and industrial use
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The PGD400 operates only with INFICON’s certified PSG500 series Pirani gauges—available in convection-enhanced (PSG520) and standard (PSG510) configurations—and is not interoperable with third-party or legacy Pirani sensors. Its measurement range is intrinsically defined by the connected PSG500 sensor (1 × 10−4 to 1000 mbar), and accuracy is traceable to NIST-traceable calibration standards applied during INFICON’s factory certification. The device complies with ISO 27874:2019 (vacuum technology — terminology and definitions) and supports audit-ready documentation for GLP/GMP environments where vacuum process validation is required (e.g., leak testing stations, vacuum drying ovens, and lamp envelope evacuation lines). No hazardous substance declarations (RoHS 2011/65/EU, REACH SVHC) are non-compliant.
Software & Data Management
The PGD400 is a standalone hardware controller with no embedded firmware update capability or USB/RS-232 connectivity. All configuration—including unit selection, setpoint value, relay hysteresis, and display brightness—is performed locally using tactile membrane keys and a 4-digit LED display. While it does not support data logging or PC-based configuration, its 0–10 V output enables seamless integration into existing data acquisition infrastructures compliant with IEEE 1451.2 transducer electronic data sheet (TEDS) frameworks when paired with compatible signal conditioners. For facilities operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, the absence of user-modifiable stored parameters or electronic records means the PGD400 functions as a “non-electronic record” subsystem—its role limited to real-time indication and hardwired control actuation.
Applications
- Pre-vacuum monitoring in high-vacuum systems (e.g., backing line pressure verification prior to turbomolecular pump start-up)
- Process vacuum control in refrigerant charging and recovery stations (RAC manufacturing), ensuring safe and repeatable fill thresholds
- In-line pressure supervision during incandescent and fluorescent lamp bulb evacuation—where consistent 1–10 mbar dwell conditions directly impact filament lifetime and gas fill uniformity
- General-purpose vacuum integrity checks in packaging machinery, vacuum furnaces, and environmental test chambers operating between 0.1 mbar and atmospheric pressure
- OEM integration into custom vacuum panels where space-constrained, low-power, and EMI-robust analog interfacing is prioritized over networked telemetry
FAQ
Can the PGD400 be used with vacuum gauges other than the INFICON PSG500?
No. The PGD400 is electrically and algorithmically optimized for the PSG500’s output impedance, temperature compensation curve, and filament excitation protocol. Interfacing with non-INFICON sensors will result in inaccurate or unstable readings.
Does the PGD400 provide temperature compensation for ambient drift?
Yes. Internal thermistor-based ambient temperature sensing feeds into the display’s linearization algorithm, maintaining specified accuracy across 0–40 °C operating ambient range.
Is the 0–10 V output isolated from the power supply ground?
Yes. The analog output features galvanic isolation rated to 500 VDC, preventing ground loops in multi-device PLC installations.
What is the maximum cable length between the PGD400 and PSG500 sensor?
For optimal noise immunity and signal fidelity, INFICON recommends ≤ 30 m using shielded twisted-pair cable (e.g., Belden 8761) with proper grounding at the PGD400 end only.
Does the setpoint relay support latching or time-delay functionality?
No. The relay is a simple threshold-triggered SPDT switch with user-defined hysteresis (0.1–10% of full scale), intended for basic interlock or alarm signaling—not programmable logic execution.
