
2
98MANAL553 Rev. D
COMPANY BACKGROUND
Viatran is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company committed to providing high quality pressure transducers and transmitters.
Established more than 40 years ago, Viatran has built its reputation on providing durable, and accurate pressure sensing
devices. Our products are often specifically specified by integrators and engineering firms for applications ranging from
the offshore oil rigs to pump control to tank and well level measurement. Viatran is often called on for custom
modifications for applications where standard products are not available.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Technical assistance is available Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Eastern) from our knowledgeable factory personnel
to answer any of your application or installation questions. Our toll free number is
1-800-688-0030. Questions or additional documentation can also be requested via e-mail at solutions@viatran.com.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Orders for additional units or accessories can be placed by calling customer service at 1-800-688-0030 or by fax at 1-
716-693-9162. Orders can also be placed by contacting a local representative in your area. To find the nearest
representative visit our web site at www.viatran.com and click on rep search.
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
MANUAL SCOPE: Information contained in this document is representative of a standard Model 553. If the product has
special requirements or modifications, refer to the permanently marked information on the product and your purchase
order for possible alteration to the product's configuration. Failure to verify product configuration before installation may
cause permanent product damage and in most cases, void the manufacturer's product warranty. If you are unsure or
have questions about your product, please contact your Application Engineer (1-800-688-0030) for assistance.
Remove and retain all enclosed instruction manuals and performance certificates. These documents provide important
information on the product's calibration, operation, safety precautions, recommended maintenance, re-calibration
requirements, repair service instructions and warranty information. These documents are updated from time to time as
changes to the product occur and should be reviewed at receipt so that proper and safe installation can occur.
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND GENERAL USE: Viatran's model 553 uses a 17-4 pH stainless steel strain gage
diaphragm sensor (Inconel X750 optional). The 553 is designed to measure process pressures in applications compatible
with 17-4 pH stainless steel. The 553 has a standard output of 4-20 mA. The standard electrical connection are 3' pigtail
leads potted in a ½" NPT male conduit connection which can be easily connected inside a conduit connection box. Model
553 is approved by FM as non-incendive and intrinsically safe. Viatran provides many standard options including
alternate connectors to custom fit your unit. The 553 is specially designed for the pulp and paper industry.
BASIC OPERATION
The Model 553 is pre-set at the factory for the required output and is referenced to local atmospheric pressure for sealed
gage units. Once factory set, the product should perform as indicated by the performance certificate and product labeling.
Any deviation from the factory settings could indicate damage to the sensor, electronics or both. All units are sent with a
calibration card that contains the unique calibration for your Viatran unit. Please retain this sheet; should the zero or span
reading vary greatly from the calibration card it may indicate damage to the sensor.
HANDLING REQUIREMENTS AND CAUTIONS
1. All electrical & pressure connections should be compatible with the model specifications as outlined.
2. The product's internal electrical circuitry is DC isolated from case ground. It is recommended that the case ground
wire be connected to earth ground at the cable termination, as this is an integral part of the internal surge protection
and noise immunity features.
3. At no time should an object be pressed against the sensing area to deflect the sensor (to test or simulate pressure),
as on some models permanent damage to the sensing diaphragm may occur.
4. When shipped in quantities, units should be packaged individually to eliminate possible damage.