Durable pH/ORP Sensor for Challenging Industrial Processes

The ABB TB556/TBX556 Industrial Kynar pH/ORP Sensor is designed for continuous measurement of pH value and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in industrial environments where standard sensors may experience shortened lifetime due to chemical attack, contamination, or difficult process conditions.

The sensor belongs to ABB’s TB(X)5 series, which is recognized for rugged construction, long service life, and reliable measurement performance in demanding process applications.

Typical applications include:

• 
  Chemical processing
  
• 
  Wastewater treatment
  
• 
  Industrial water monitoring
  
• 
  Pulp and paper
  
• 
  Mining and metal processing
  
• 
  Process tanks and pipelines
  

Chemically Resistant Kynar (PVDF) Sensor Body

A major advantage of the TB556/TBX556 is its Kynar (PVDF) body construction.

Compared with traditional sensor materials, Kynar provides excellent resistance against many aggressive chemicals, making the sensor suitable for applications where corrosion resistance and mechanical durability are important.

The robust PVDF housing helps protect the measuring components in:

• 
  Acidic or alkaline processes
  
• 
  Chemical dosing systems
  
• 
  Contaminated industrial water
  
• 
  Aggressive process fluids
  

ABB Next Step™ Solid-State Reference Technology

The reference system is one of the most important factors affecting pH sensor lifetime and stability.

The TB556/TBX556 uses ABB’s Next Step™ solid-state reference technology, which replaces traditional liquid, slurry, or gel reference designs with a solid-state potassium chloride (KCl) reference system.

This technology helps reduce common sensor failures caused by:

• 
  Reference poisoning
  
• 
  Junction clogging
  
• 
  Electrolyte leakage
  
• 
  Pumping effects
  

As a result, the sensor can maintain more stable measurements and require less frequent maintenance in difficult process conditions.

Flexible Installation for Different Process Conditions

The TB556/TBX556 is designed for flexible installation in industrial measurement systems.

Supported installation methods include:

• 
  In-line installation
  
• 
  Submersion / immersion measurement
  
• 
  Flow-through applications
  

The sensor uses a 3/4 in. NPT process connection and offers different insertion lengths from approximately 40 mm (1.5 in.) to 127 mm (5 in.) depending on configuration.

This flexibility allows engineers to integrate the sensor into various tanks, pipes, and process systems.

Suitable for High Temperature Industrial Applications

Many industrial pH measurement points involve elevated temperatures that can shorten conventional sensor life.

The ABB TB556/TBX556 supports demanding operating conditions:

• 
  Maximum temperature up to 140 °C (284 °F)
  
• 
  Pressure capability up to 276 kPa (40 psi) at 140 °C
  
• 
  Higher pressure capability at lower temperatures depending on configuration
  

This makes it suitable for applications requiring durable pH measurement under harsh thermal conditions.

Multiple Electrode Options for Different Media

Different processes require different measuring electrodes.

The TB556/TBX556 can be configured with various electrode options, including:

• 
  Standard pH glass electrodes
  
• 
  High-temperature glass electrodes
  
• 
  ORP platinum electrodes
  
• 
  ORP gold electrodes
  
• 
  Fluoride-resistant glass electrodes
  

This allows engineers to select the appropriate sensor configuration according to:

• 
  Chemical composition
  
• 
  Temperature range
  
• 
  Contamination level
  
• 
  pH/ORP measurement requirements
  

TB556 vs TBX556: Which One Should You Choose?

The TB556 and TBX556 share the same Kynar sensor platform, but the TBX556 version includes ABB’s Advantage™ diagnostic features with solution ground capability.

TB556

• 
  Standard Kynar pH/ORP sensor
  
• 
  Suitable for general industrial measurement applications
  

TBX556

• 
  Enhanced diagnostic capability
  
• 
  Additional solution grounding function
  
• 
  Better suited for applications requiring improved monitoring and diagnostics
  

Typical Applications

Chemical Industry

Used for monitoring:

• 
  Chemical reaction processes
  
• 
  Acid and alkali solutions
  
• 
  Chemical dosing systems
  

Wastewater Treatment

Suitable for:

• 
  Neutralization control
  
• 
  pH adjustment
  
• 
  Water quality monitoring
  

Industrial Water Systems

Applied in:

• 
  Cooling water systems
  
• 
  Process water monitoring
  
• 
  Effluent treatment
  

Process Manufacturing

Used in:

• 
  Pulp and paper production
  
• 
  Metal processing
  
• 
  Industrial production lines
  

FAQ

What is ABB TB556/TBX556 used for?

ABB TB556/TBX556 is an industrial pH and ORP sensor used for continuous measurement of acidity, alkalinity, and oxidation-reduction potential in industrial processes.

What is the advantage of the Kynar (PVDF) body?

The Kynar body provides strong chemical resistance and durability, making the sensor suitable for aggressive industrial environments where standard sensor materials may not perform well.

What is the difference between TB556 and TBX556?

TB556 is the standard Kynar pH/ORP sensor, while TBX556 adds ABB Advantage™ diagnostic functions and solution ground capability for improved monitoring performance.

Can TB556/TBX556 measure ORP?

Yes. The sensor can be configured for ORP measurement using platinum or gold redox electrodes depending on application requirements.

Can ABB TB556/TBX556 be used in wastewater applications?

Yes. Its chemical-resistant Kynar construction and durable reference technology make it suitable for wastewater and other contaminated industrial water applications.

What is the maximum operating temperature?

Depending on configuration, the TB556/TBX556 can operate up to 140 °C (284 °F).