Watlow CLS216 216-C20000DF Temperature Controller

Description

The Watlow CLS216 216-C20000DF is a high-performance industrial temperature and process controller, part of Watlow’s powerful CLS200 controller family. Designed specifically for demanding manufacturing and process control applications, this model supports PID control of up to 16 independent loops, enabling precise regulation of complex temperature, pressure, or flow processes. Its usage is common in industries such as plastics processing, chemical production, food manufacturing, and rubber fabrication, where maintaining tight process control directly influences product quality and operational efficiency.

The CLS216 216-C20000DF belongs to the ANAFAZE CLS200 series, known for combining advanced control functionality with a compact 1/8 DIN panel footprint. The controller supports multiple sensor input types, including thermocouples, RTDs, linear voltage, current, and frequency, providing high flexibility for various process measurements. Thanks to built-in serial communications with protocols such as Modbus TCP and EtherNet/IP, it integrates seamlessly into modern distributed control systems and SCADA architectures for remote monitoring and automation.

This model incorporates features like autotuning PID algorithms to minimize tuning efforts while maximizing control accuracy, ramp and soak programming for complex thermal processes, and enhanced control modes such as cascade, ratio, differential, and process variable retransmission. Its large 4.3-inch color TFT display offers clear visualization of process variables and driver interfaces, making setup and operation intuitive, reducing operator training time. Certified to UL and CE standards, the CLS216 216-C20000DF assures robust, reliable performance in industrial environments meeting strict safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements.

Related Watlow models include CLS204 (4-loop controller), CLS208 (8-loop controller), and other specialized variants of the CLS216 series that cater to diverse industrial requirements with optional firmware extensions for batch processing or extruder control.

Installation considerations focus on proper panel cutouts for DIN mounting, sufficient ventilation, secure wiring according to standards, and grounding to minimize interference. Maintenance best practices include routine sensor calibration, firmware updates, and periodic performance checks to ensure optimal control accuracy and system dependability.