Instruction manual ni-290e – WIKA PXA User Manual
Page 2

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
NI-290E
Rev. 0 01/05
1 - GENERAL
1.1 FOREWORD
The wrong choice of a series or a model, as well as the incorrect 
installation, lead to malfunction and reduce instrument life. Failure 
to follow the indications given in this manual can cause damage 
to the instrument, the environment and persons. 
 
1.2 ALLOWED OVERRANGES
Pressures exceeding the working range can be occasionally 
tolerated provided they remain within the limits stated for the 
instrument (proof pressure). Continuous pressures exceeding 
the working range can be applied to the instrument, provided they 
are clearly stated in the instrument features. 
The current and voltage values stated in the technical 
specifications and data plate must not be exceeded: transitory 
overranges can have a destructive effect on the switch. 
 
1.3 TEMPERATURES
Due to the temperature of both the environment and the process 
fluid, the temperature of the instrument could exceed the allowed 
limits (normally from -40°C to +85°C). Therefore, in case it does, 
suitable measures (protection against heat radiation, fluid 
separators, cooling coils, heated lockers), aimed at limiting the 
value, must be taken. 
 
2 - OPERATING PRINCIPLE
A pressure-tight diaphragm (or an O-ring sealed piston) applies a 
force to a stiff disc. This force is directly proportional to the 
pressure value and is contrasted by an helicoidal spring charged 
by a suitable bush. When the force balance point is exceeded, the 
stiff disc shifts and, by means of a rigid rod, actuates one or two 
simultaneous release electric microswitches. The 
microswitches are of the snap acting type with automatic reset. 
When the pressure moves away from the set values, returning 
towards the normal values, the switch is reset. 
3 - NAMEPLATE AND MARKINGS
The instrument is fitted with a metal plate bearing all its functional 
characteristics and – in case of explosionproof execution (Series 
PXA and PXN) – also the markings prescribed by standard EN 
50014 and EN 50281-1-1. Fig. 1 shows the nameplate mounted 
on explosionproof instruments. 
Fig. 1.
Nameplate, explosionproof instruments
1 CE marking and identification number of the notified body
responsible for production surveillance.
2 Apparatus classification according to ATEX 94/9 CE directive. 
3 Notified body that issued the type certificate and number of said 
certificate.
4 Mode of protection and operating ambient temperature limits.
4 - SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR SAFE USE (X)
Explosionproof instruments (Series PXA and PXN) installed 
without a junction box require an electric connection suitable for 
the mode of protection choosen at the free end of the cable (see 
Point 8). Should the instrument be installed on a dangerous 
process fluid (Zone 0), check wetted materials compatibility. 
 
 
5 - SET POINT ADJUSTMENT
The charge of the helicoidal spring can be regulated by means of 
the bush (for adjustment) in such a way that the switch is released 
when the pressure reaches (either increasing or decreasing) the 
desired value (set point). The instrument is usually supplied with 
the switches set at the setting range value nearest to zero 
(factory calibration). The instrument is supplied with an adhesive 
label showing the set point calibration value. With factory 
calibration the values are not indicated on the label as these are 
temporary and will be modified with the definitive values. Prior to 
installation the instrument must be calibrated and the definitive 
calibration values written on the label using a suitable indelible ink 
pen. 
If the instrument has been ordered with a specific calibration, it 
is a good rule to check the calibration values marked on the 
relevant adhesive label, prior to installation. 
The position of the adjusting bush is given in Fig. 2.
Fig. 2.
Adjusting bush and plumbing
c
Adjustment
slot cover
d
Stainless steel
wire
e
Sealing lead
f
Adjusting
bush
The effect of the sense of rotation of the adjusting bush is shown 
on the slot cover. Rotate the bush by inserting a 3mm dia. rod or 
drill into the holes on the bush itself. 
6 - SET POINT CALIBRATION
In order to proceed with the calibration and the periodical 
functional verification of the instrument a suitable calibration 
circuit (Fig. 4) and an adequate pressure source are required. 
Wiring is to be carried out as shown in Fig. 3 and on the slot 
cover. 
 
Fig. 3.
Electric wiring
GDN  - Ground internal : leadwire yellow/green 
C  - Common : leadwire brown 
NA - Normally open : leadwire blue 
NC - Normally closed : leadwire black 
Micro 1
C  - Common : leadwire grey 
NA - Normally open : leadwire red 
NC - Normally closed : leadwire white 
Micro 2
Microswitch internal wiring and contacts status at atmospheric 
pressure 
C - Common 
NA - Normally open 
NC - Normally closed 
