Easy Integration of Webtec CTA Hydraulic Flow Monitor with New 4-20mA Output

Following its introduction in 2022, the heavy-duty yet compact Webtec CTA series flow monitor for hydraulic systems now features a 4-20mA output. While this highly-capable device can already monitor and transmit oil flow and temperature data via a J1939 CAN-bus interface, the addition of a 4-20mA (3-wire loop) analog output for flow reporting facilitates easy permanent installation on industrial and on/off-highway machines.  

Webtec’s rugged CTA hydraulic system flow monitor is suitable for closed-loop control, real-time diagnostics, safety interlocks, and inclusion in predictive maintenance/IoT systems to reduce downtime or enable autonomous vehicle operation. CTA series flow monitors are fully EMC-compliant, resistant to water spray/steam cleaning (IP6K9K protection rating), and unaffected by heavy vibration, making them a valuable addition to numerous vehicle applications.

The new 4-20mA output supports easy integration with existing systems. It requires less wiring and connections than other signals, making it simple to configure. 4-20mA outputs see widespread use throughout the hydraulics industry, offering a high level of compatibility with many industrial devices and control systems. Further benefits include efficiency, as 4-20 mA loop current remains constant and does not degrade over distance. This characteristic also reduces the impact of electrical noise/interference, while the low 4-20mA current means there is no electrical shock hazard.

 The new output takes advantage of the popular M12 connector for the electrical port. This differs from the existing J1939 version, which uses a Deutsch automotive connector in line with the inlet port to reduce height. A rugged enclosure protects the electronics and the connector if the flow monitor is dropped.  

The availability of both J1939 and 4-20 mA outputs is yet another attribute that sets this increasingly popular hydraulic flow monitor apart from many others. Further differentiation arrives courtesy of its IP6K9K ingress protection rating, as well as the device’s impressive turndown ratio, pressure rating, and connector protection.

Applications extend from earthmoving and mining machines to municipal vehicles, cranes, and autonomous vehicles, where the CTA flow monitor can continuously assess pump and system performance. When using variable displacement pumps, users are able to incorporate regular test routines into the vehicle’s operation so that monitoring occurs during consistent and known operating conditions. The device can also facilitate real-time system performance information like hydraulic power output or pump volumetric efficiency by combining flow and pressure data, or even engine efficiency by comparing hydraulic power and fuel consumption.    

Webtec’s CTA flow monitors (both J1939 and 4-20mA output versions) offer a calibrated flow range of up to 300 l/min (80 US gpm) at a maximum rated pressure of 420 bar (6000 psi). If required, the company’s team of experienced engineers is available to recommend the monitor’s optimal location on the machine.