Introduction to the Trafag EPI 8287 Industrial Pressure Transmitter
The Trafag EPI 8287 represents a pinnacle of Swiss engineering excellence in industrial pressure measurement technology. As a successor to the highly acclaimed EPI 8297 series, this industrial pressure transmitter incorporates cutting-edge thin-film-on-steel sensor technology combined with Trafag’s proprietary ASIC TX electronics, delivering unparalleled performance in the most demanding industrial environments.
The specific model 8287.34.2517 configuration offers exceptional precision with 0.3% accuracy class, AISI316L stainless steel construction for superior corrosion resistance, and G1/4″ male process connection with DIN3869 seal compatibility. This makes it an ideal solution for hydraulic systems, machine tools, and heavy industrial applications where reliability and accuracy are paramount.
Technical Specifications and Performance Parameters
Measurement Characteristics
The EPI 8287 employs the thin-film-on-steel measuring principle, a technology where strain gauges are sputtered directly onto a stainless steel diaphragm. This completely welded construction eliminates the need for additional seals or oil-filling, resulting in exceptional long-term stability and resistance to harsh media.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Measuring Principle | Thin-film-on-steel |
| Accuracy Class | ±0.3% FS (typ.) / ±0.5% FS (typ.) |
| Non-Linearity & Hysteresis (NLH) @ 25°C | ±0.2% FS (typ.) |
| Measuring Range | 0…2.5 to 0…600 bar (0…30 to 0…7500 psi) |
| Overpressure Resistance | 3x nominal (standard) / 5x nominal (optional) |
| Burst Pressure | Up to 15x nominal |
Electrical Specifications
| Output Signal | Supply Voltage | Load Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| 4…20 mA | 9…32 VDC | ≤ (USupply – 9V) / 20mA |
| 0…5 VDC / 0.5…5 VDC | 9…32 VDC | > 2.5 kΩ |
| 0…10 VDC | 15…32 VDC | > 5.0 kΩ |
| 0.5…4.5 VDC ratiometric | 5 ± 0.25 VDC | – |
Environmental Conditions
| Parameter | Rating |
|---|---|
| Media Temperature | -40°C…+125°C |
| Ambient Temperature | -40°C…+125°C (UL-rated: -20°C…+80°C) |
| Protection Class | IP65 / IP67 / IP68 |
| Vibration Resistance | 15 g RMS (20…2000 Hz) |
| Shock Resistance | 500 g / 1 ms |
| Humidity | Max. 95% relative |
Material and Mechanical Specifications
The 8287.34.2517 configuration features:
- Sensor (wetted parts): 1.4404 (AISI316L) stainless steel
- Pressure connection (wetted parts): 1.4404 (AISI316L) stainless steel
- Housing: 1.4404 (AISI316L) stainless steel
- Sealing: FKM (Viton) with temperature range -18°C…+125°C
- Weight: Approximately 80-110 g
- Mounting Torque: 25 Nm
Process Connection Options
The EPI 8287 series offers extensive process connection versatility to meet diverse installation requirements:
| Connection Type | Code | Application |
|---|---|---|
| G1/4″ female | 10 | General purpose |
| G1/4″ male with DIN3869 seal | 17 | Hydraulic systems |
| G1/4″ male with damping (Ø0.5mm) | 14 | High-pressure spikes |
| G1/4″ male (Manometer) EN 837 | – | Pressure gauges |
| 1/4″ NPT male | – | North American standard |
| M14x1.5 male DIN6149-2 | 31 | Metric hydraulic |
Electrical Connection Options
| Connection Type | IP Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| EN175301-803-A (DIN43650-A) | IP65 | Standard industrial plug |
| M12x1, 5-pole | IP67 | Compact sensor connection |
| Industrial standard socket | IP67 | Contact distance 9.4 mm |
| Packard Metri Pack | IP67 | Automotive industry standard |
| MIL-C 26482 | IP68 | Military specification |
| Cable (PVC/PUR/Raychem) | IP68 max. 3m | Various temperature ratings |
Application Scenarios and Industry Use Cases
Hydraulic Systems
The EPI 8287 pressure transmitter excels in hydraulic applications where its robust construction and excellent long-term stability provide critical advantages:
- Mobile hydraulics: Construction equipment, agricultural machinery, mining equipment, municipal vehicles
- Stationary hydraulics: Machine tools, injection molding machines, forming presses, hydraulic lifts
- Hydraulic power units: Valve block monitoring, power pack control, accumulator pressure supervision
- Test benches: Chassis testing, material inspection, hydraulic component validation
The standard 3x overpressure protection (5x optional) makes the EPI 8287 particularly suitable for hydraulic systems prone to pressure spikes, water hammer, and cavitation effects. The integrated damping elements in specific configurations provide additional protection against brief pressure surges.
Industrial Manufacturing
In industrial manufacturing environments, the EPI 8287 provides reliable pressure monitoring for:
- Machine tools: CNC machining centers, automated production lines
- Process control: Chemical processing, food and beverage manufacturing
- HVAC systems: Compressed air monitoring, refrigeration systems
- Pump and compressor control: Discharge pressure monitoring, system protection
Renewable Energy Applications
The EPI 8287 is increasingly deployed in renewable energy systems:
- Wind power: Rotor control systems, pitch control hydraulic monitoring
- Solar tracking: Hydraulic positioning systems for photovoltaic arrays
- Hydroelectric: Turbine control, penstock monitoring
Compatibility and System Integration
PLC and Control System Compatibility
The EPI 8287 integrates seamlessly with all major industrial automation platforms:
- Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200/1500/300/400 series – Compatible via 4-20 mA analog input modules (e.g., 6ES7131-4BF00-0AA0)
- Allen Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix – Native 4-20 mA input support
- Mitsubishi MELSEC-FX and Q series – Analog input modules for pressure integration
- Schneider Modicon M241/M251 – Universal analog input support
- ABB AC500 and AC800 series – Standard 4-20 mA compatibility
Signal Conditioning and Connectivity
For systems requiring additional processing:
- IO-Link master gateways: Enable digital communication for Industry 4.0 integration
- HART protocol converters: For legacy system upgrades while maintaining analog output
- Signal isolators: Provide electrical isolation in noisy industrial environments
- Data acquisition systems: Compatible with DAQ systems from National Instruments, Dewesoft, and others
Competitive Alternatives and Cross-Reference
When evaluating pressure transmitters for demanding industrial applications, consider these comparable products from leading manufacturers:
| Feature | Trafag EPI 8287 | NAI 8273 (IO-Link) | FPI 8237 (Flush) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | 0.3% / 0.5% | 0.3% / 0.5% | 0.5% |
| Output | Analog (4-20mA, Voltage) | IO-Link + 2x Switch | IO-Link + 2x Switch |
| Media Temperature | -40°C…+125°C | -40°C…+125°C | -40°C…+125°C |
| Overpressure | 3x / 5x optional | 3x / 5x optional | 3x standard |
| Diagnostic Features | Basic | Advanced (IO-Link) | Advanced (IO-Link) |
| Diaphragm | Standard | Standard | Flush-mount |
Purchasing Guide and Recommendations
Model Selection Criteria
When specifying the EPI 8287 for your application, consider these key factors:
- Pressure range: Select the minimum range that covers your maximum operating pressure with adequate margin
- Accuracy requirement: 0.3% for critical control applications, 0.5% for general monitoring
- Material compatibility: AISI316L (1.4404) for aggressive media, AISI630 (1.4542) for standard hydraulic oil
- Electrical output: 4-20 mA for industrial control, voltage outputs for PLCs with analog input cards
- Process connection: Match your existing plumbing or specify adapters
- Environmental protection: IP67/IP68 for washdown or outdoor applications
Seal Material Selection
- FKM (Fluoroelastomer/Viton): Excellent chemical resistance, -18°C to +125°C, ideal for petroleum-based fluids
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene): Excellent for steam and polar solvents, -40°C to +125°C
- NBR (Nitrile): Cost-effective for petroleum oils, -25°C to +100°C
Accessories and Spare Parts
- Replacement connector sockets (DIN43650-A)
- Cable assemblies with various lengths and jacket materials
- Pressure adapters and fittings
- Mounting brackets for panel installation
- Calibration certificates (traceable to national standards)
Quality Assurance and Certifications
The Trafag EPI 8287 pressure transmitter carries comprehensive certifications ensuring global compliance:
- CE marking: Conforms to EU directives for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and pressure equipment
- UKCA marking: United Kingdom conformity assessment
- UL recognition: Available for US and Canadian markets (ambient rated -20°C to +80°C)
- IEC 60770 compliance: Standard for industrial-process transmitters
- RoHS compliance: Restriction of hazardous substances
Conclusion
The Trafag EPI 8287.34.2517 industrial pressure transmitter represents an exceptional choice for demanding hydraulic and industrial applications. Its combination of thin-film-on-steel technology, 0.3% accuracy, wide temperature range, and robust AISI316L construction delivers the reliability and precision that modern industrial processes demand.
Whether you’re upgrading hydraulic control systems, implementing condition monitoring, or specifying sensors for new equipment, the EPI 8287 provides the performance, durability, and Swiss engineering quality that minimizes downtime and maximizes operational efficiency.
References
- Trafag EPI 8287 Technical Data Sheet H72317ad
- Trafag EPI 8287 Operating Instructions H73317o
- EN 60068-2-6: Vibration testing standard
- EN 60068-2-27: Shock testing standard
- IEC 61131-9: IO-Link communication standard
- EN 175301-803-A (DIN43650-A): Industrial connector specification
- ISO 6149-2: Metric pipe threads for hydraulic applications