Reliable pH/ORP Measurement for Sterilizable Process Applications

The ABB TB561/TBX561 Industrial Sterilizable pH/ORP Sensor is developed for industries where measurement reliability, hygiene, and process availability are critical.

Many conventional pH sensors can suffer from reference poisoning, clogging, or shortened lifetime when exposed to aggressive chemicals, high temperatures, or repeated cleaning cycles. The TB561/TBX561 series addresses these challenges with a robust sensor design optimized for sterilizable and in-line process applications.

It is widely used in:

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  Pharmaceutical production
  
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  Food and beverage processing
  
• 
  Fermentation systems
  
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  Chemical processing
  
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  Glass-lined reactors
  
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  Sterile process vessels
  

Advanced Next Step™ Solid-State Reference Technology

A key advantage of the TB561/TBX561 is ABB’s Next Step™ solid-state reference technology.

Unlike traditional liquid or gel reference systems, the solid-state reference chamber uses potassium chloride (KCl) in a non-liquid structure, helping reduce common sensor problems such as:

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  Reference poisoning
  
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  Electrolyte leakage
  
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  Plugging
  
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  Pumping effects
  

This improves sensor durability and measurement reliability in difficult industrial environments.

Designed for Sterilization and Cleaning Processes

The TB561/TBX561 is specifically designed for applications where sensors are exposed to regular sterilization cycles or cleaning procedures.

Typical applications include:

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  Steam sterilization processes
  
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  Chemical cleaning systems
  
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  CIP (Clean-In-Place) applications
  
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  Sterile production environments
  

The sensor can be integrated with ABB TB18 Safe-T-Clean valve and compatible flow cell systems, allowing easier maintenance and sensor replacement.

Flexible Installation Options

The TB561/TBX561 supports multiple installation configurations to match different process requirements.

Available installation methods include:

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  Insertion installation
  
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  Submersion measurement
  
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  Flow-through applications
  
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  Hot-tap installation
  

The sensor can also be retrofitted into standard DN25 bushings, making it easier to replace existing sensors in many industrial systems.

Designed for High Temperature and Pressure Applications

Industrial processes often require sensors that can withstand demanding operating conditions.

The TB561/TBX561 provides:

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  Operating temperature up to 140 °C (284 °F)
  
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  Operating pressure up to 17 bar (250 psi) and higher depending on configuration
  

This makes it suitable for challenging process environments where standard pH sensors may have limited lifetime.

Comprehensive Electrode Selection for Different Media

To adapt to different process conditions, the TB561/TBX561 series offers a selection of measuring electrodes and wetted materials.

This allows engineers to select the appropriate configuration based on:

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  Chemical compatibility
  
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  Temperature requirements
  
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  Process contamination level
  
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  Measurement requirements
  

The combination-style construction provides flexibility for various industrial pH and ORP measurement tasks.

Improved Reliability with Lower Maintenance Requirements

For continuous industrial processes, frequent sensor replacement can increase operating costs and production downtime.

The TB561/TBX561 helps reduce maintenance requirements through:

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  Poisoning-resistant reference design
  
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  Durable process construction
  
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  Long service life in demanding applications
  
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  Stable measurement performance
  

It is particularly valuable in processes where sensor replacement requires stopping production or entering sterile areas.

Typical Applications

Pharmaceutical Industry

Used for:

• 
  Fermentation monitoring
  
• 
  Sterile process control
  
• 
  Cleaning validation systems
  

Food & Beverage Processing

Suitable for:

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  Beverage production
  
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  Dairy processing
  
• 
  Hygienic process monitoring
  

Chemical Industry

Applied in:

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  Reaction vessels
  
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  Chemical processing lines
  
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  Aggressive media measurement
  

Industrial Water Treatment

Used for:

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  Process water monitoring
  
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  Chemical dosing control
  
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  pH adjustment systems
  

FAQ

What is ABB TB561/TBX561 used for?

ABB TB561/TBX561 is an industrial pH/ORP sensor designed for measuring acidity, alkalinity, and oxidation-reduction potential in processes requiring sterilization, cleaning, or reliable continuous monitoring.

What is the difference between TB561 and TBX561?

TB561 and TBX561 belong to the same sterilizable pH/ORP sensor family. The exact configuration depends on electrode selection, installation requirements, and process application.

Can TB561/TBX561 be used in pharmaceutical applications?

Yes. The sensor is designed for sterilizable applications and is commonly used in pharmaceutical processes, fermenters, and sterile production environments.

How does the solid-state reference improve sensor performance?

The Next Step™ solid-state reference reduces problems commonly found in traditional liquid or gel reference systems, including poisoning, plugging, and electrolyte-related failures.

Can ABB TB561/TBX561 handle high-temperature processes?

Yes. Depending on configuration, the sensor can operate at temperatures up to 140 °C (284 °F), making it suitable for demanding industrial applications.

Is TB561/TBX561 suitable for CIP and sterilization systems?

Yes. It is specifically designed for process vessels and lines requiring periodic sterilization or cleaning procedures.