The EC3-X33 is a stand-alone universal superheat controller designed for a wide range of AC, refrigeration, and industrial applications—from chillers and heat pumps to cold rooms and air dryers.
Setup & Display
The optional ECD-002 Display/Keypad is required for initial setup but doesn't need to remain connected. The controller operates independently, allowing you to connect or disconnect the display as needed.
Key Features
- Precision Control: Works seamlessly with Emerson stepper motor driven valves (EX4 … EX8)
- Safety First: Built-in rechargeable battery automatically closes the valve during power loss with intelligent alarm management for compressor protection
- Cost Saving: Shares 4…20mA signal from evaporator pressure sensor via analogue output, eliminating need for multiple sensors
- Reliability: Continuous monitoring of sensors and wiring for immediate failure detection
- Hardware: Aluminum housing for DIN rail mounting with easy plug-in screw terminals
- Pressure Management: Includes evaporating pressure limitation (MOP) and low superheat alarm
Applications
Standard evaporators (shell and tube, plate heat exchangers, air coils), subcoolers or economizers on screw/scroll compressors, intermediate gas control in two-stage compressors, suction gas control with hot gas bypass, and flooded evaporators.
Mounting
Mount the EC3-X33 directly onto a standard DIN rail.
Electrical Installation
Always refer to the electrical wiring diagram for correct connections. Do not turn on power until all wiring is complete. Ground the metal housing using a 1/4" spade connector. Maintain at least 1.2 inches (3 cm) separation between controller/sensor wiring and mains wiring to prevent interference.
Power Supply Requirements: Use a Class II transformer for the 24VAC power supply. Do not ground the 24VAC lines. We recommend using a dedicated transformer for EC3 controller(s) rather than sharing with third-party controllers to avoid grounding loops or interference. Never connect mains voltage to any EC3 inputs.
Preparation for Start-up
- Evacuate: Clear the entire refrigeration circuit
- Close the Valve: Emerson Electrical Control Valves (EX4...EX8) are shipped half-open. Apply 24V power to the EC3 while keeping the digital input at 0V to force the valve closed
- Charge: Once the valve is closed, begin charging the system with refrigerant
- Connect Display: Plug the ECD-002 unit into the EC3 using the ECC-Nxx cable or any standard straight Cat5 cable with RJ45 plugs
You must set up the EC3 before full start-up. Do not activate the 24V digital input until the main parameters are configured.
Setting Main Parameters
Using the ECD-002 Display: Turn the power supply ON while keeping the digital input at 0V (open). Configure the three critical parameters: refrigerant type (u0), pressure sensor type (uP), and valve type (ut). For safety and compressor protection, these parameters can only be set when the digital input is 0V. For quick setup, follow the "Quick start-up" pictorial guide included with the unit. Once these main parameters are saved, the EC3 is ready for operation.
Start-up
Start your system and verify superheat and operating conditions. The EC3-X33 operates perfectly without the keypad/display attached—you can connect or disconnect the ECD-002 as needed.
Need Help Finding the Right Part? Industrial parts can be complex, and compatibility is crucial. If you're unsure about versions or compatibility, don't guess. Send a photo or details of your current setup for verification to ensure you get the exact match you need.
