If you already use Atlas Copco’s Tensor S, ST, DX, and/or ETX nutrunners in your plant, integrating a PF 4000 controller can help you prevent under- or over-torquing. Although the 4000 series is not the newest iteration of the Power Focus controllers, they’re still an incredibly reliable, powerful, and cost-effective option, especially if you already have Atlas Copco’s older Tensor tools.

The PF 4000 series features advanced control functions, like automatic sequencing and parameter setting, easy laptop connection, barcode scanning, intuitive displays, and more. However, each model within the series is slightly different.

In this article, we’ll compare the different models in the PF 4000 series to help you understand which one you need for your application.

Compact Controllers

The PF 4000 series can be split into two categories: compact and graph. Compact torque controllers, including the PF 4000-C-HW, PF 4000-C-PB-HW, PF 4000-C-PN-HW, PF 4000-C-CC-HW, PF 4000 C-DN-HW, and PF 4000-C-EIP-HW are great for simple automated assembly lines and picking systems.

Each controller is compliant with several EU standards, including EN 61000-3-2:2014, EN 61000-3-3:2013, EN 61000-6:2005+AC:2005, EN 61000-6-4:2007+A1:2011, EN 61010-1:2010, and EN 61010-2-201:2013, is ETL-certified, and doesn’t offer current or transducer control.

Other specifications include:

  • Dimensions: 47 cm (Length) x 27 cm (Height) x 42.5 cm (Width)
  • Weight: 29.45 lb.
  • Rated Voltage: 100-120/200-240V
  • Power: 320 W
  • Operating Temperature Maximum: 104 F
  • Operating Temperature Minimum: 41 F

The primary differences between each model are how they communicate with other equipment in the assembly line:

PF 4000-C-HW

Doesn’t use Fieldbus communication, requiring alternative methods like point-to-point wiring, analog signals, serial protocols, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or Ethernet.

PF 4000-C-PB-HW

Uses ProfiBus to communicate.

PF 4000-C-PN-HW

Uses ProfiNet and could be a great investment for plants currently using ProfiBus that want to eventually switch to ProfiNet, which provides higher speeds and more flexible communication.

PF 4000-C-CC-HW

Uses CC-Link to communicate.

PF 4000-C-DN-HW

Uses DeviceNet, which is commonly used in automotive applications.

PF 4000-C-EIP-HW

Uses Ethernet/IP. Similar to ProfiNet, this option is ideal if the application requires handling more data or faster communication speeds.

Graph Controllers

Graph controllers, like the PF 4000-G-HW, PF 4000-G-DN-HW, PF 4000-G-EIP-HW, and PF 4000-G-PN-HW, provide real-time visualization and analysis of torque output, making them better for assembly applications requiring precision.

Each graph controller offers the same specifications as their compact counterparts, except they have graphical displays while the compact controllers don’t. The specifications of the compact and graph controllers, including certifications, dimensions, weight, voltage, power, and operating temperatures, are the same. Like the compact controllers, the only difference between the graph models is how they communicate.

The PF 4000-G-HW doesn’t use Fieldbus communication, the PF 4000-G-DN-HW uses DeviceNet, the PF 4000-G-EIP-HW uses Ethernet/IP, and the PF 4000 G-PN-HW uses ProfiNet. There are no graph models featuring CC-Link and ProfiBus communication capabilities.

Do You Need Help Selecting a Controller?

Choosing the right PF 4000 model is easy as long as you understand what type of controller you need (compact or graph), how much precision your application needs, and which network protocol your company uses.

If you’re unsure which controller you need, Encore Systems can help. We specialize in repairing and refurbishing torque tools and controllers and have an inventory of certified refurbished items. Our certified refurbished items are less expensive than direct replacements but still provide the reliability of the original OEM controller. All parts we repair and rebuild use OEM parts and are thoroughly tested to ensure they meet original specifications.

Visit our website to view our controller inventory and request a quote, or contact us today for product assistance.