Control systems > Positioners, controllers and sensors
Spirax Sarco SX80 Controller
The Spirax Sarco SX80 is a 1/16 DIN panel mount process controller offering universal input for RTD and thermocouple signals, universal output with VMD 3-point, 4-20 mA analog, relay and logic, PID auto-tuning, 3 setpoints and a built-in 18 VDC transmitter power supply.
Quick facts
Where SX80 sits in the control range
SX80 belongs in the Spirax Sarco positioners, controllers and sensors range. It is a compact 1/16 DIN panel mount process controller intended for temperature, pressure, level and flow control duties that need universal input flexibility, multiple output types and straightforward PID configuration.
Compared with positioner-only products such as SP400 and SP7, the SX80 is a standalone controller that accepts direct sensor signals, applies PID control logic and drives actuators or alarms through its universal output set.
Product characteristics
SX80 provides universal input compatible with RTD (Pt100), a wide range of thermocouple types (K, J, N, R, S, B, L, T, C), mA and mV signals. A built-in 18 VDC transmitter power supply (30 mA) supports loop-powered transmitters without requiring an external power supply.
The universal output includes VMD 3-point stepping control, a 4-20 mA analog output, a relay output rated at 2 A at 264 Vac and a logic output. Three setpoints support alarm or control staging requirements.
PID auto-tuning simplifies commissioning, while the 5-character quick code allows settings to be transferred between controllers or restored after replacement without manual re-entry of all parameters.
The front panel achieves IP65 / NEMA 4X protection for wash-down and outdoor-facing panel environments. Accuracy is rated at plus or minus 0.25% of span (plus or minus 1 LSD) with a 4 Hz sampling rate. The unit is CE certified.
SX80 is not suitable for explosive or corrosive atmospheres. Verify environmental and installation conditions before specifying.
Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Panel cut-out | 1/16 DIN (45 x 45 mm) |
| Universal input | RTD (Pt100), thermocouple (K/J/N/R/S/B/L/T/C), mA, mV |
| Universal output | VMD 3-point, 4-20 mA analog, relay (2 A @ 264 Vac), logic |
| Transmitter power supply | 18 VDC, 30 mA (built-in) |
| Setpoints | 3 |
| Control mode | PID auto-tuning |
| Configuration | 5-character quick code |
| Accuracy | Plus or minus 0.25% of span (plus or minus 1 LSD) |
| Sampling rate | 4 Hz |
| Power supply | 85-265 Vac, max 6 W |
| Protection | IP65 / NEMA 4X (front panel) |
| Certification | CE |
| Weight | 250 g |
| Hazardous area | Not approved for explosive or corrosive environments |
Installation and documentation
The SX80 mounts into a standard 1/16 DIN panel cut-out. Before installation, confirm the panel thickness, wiring entry and clearance behind the panel. Refer to the installation and maintenance instructions (IM-P323-32) for wiring diagrams, terminal layout and commissioning steps.
Technical information document TI-P323-28 covers full input and output specifications, accuracy data and dimensional drawings.
- SX80 / SX90 installation and maintenance instructions (IM-P323-32)
- SX80 / SX90 installation and maintenance instructions (IM-P323-35)
Related routes
- Return to positioners, controllers and sensors to compare SX80 with positioners and other controller and feedback products.
- Review control valves when the valve body, actuator and controller need to be selected together.
- Learn about steam for background on process control and instrumentation terminology.
Technical Information
| Document | Reference | Language | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12.13 SX80 Process Controller EMC emissions specification: | TI-P323-28 | English | Download |
Continue your SX80 selection route
SX80 selection usually sits inside a broader process control decision that also includes the sensor, actuator, valve body and wiring layout.
Compare the controller and positioner range
Return to positioners, controllers and sensors when you need to compare the SX80 with SP400, SP7, EP6 and other control and feedback products.
Build the complete control valve assembly
Review control valves when the controller choice needs to be connected with valve trim, duty conditions and the final valve assembly.
Review steam and process control fundamentals
Use the learn-about-steam resources when additional background on process control and instrumentation terminology is needed.