Rosemount 3051C vs 3051T vs 3051S: Key Differences and Selection Guide

When it comes to pressure measurement in process industries, the Rosemount 3051 series has become a global benchmark for reliability, accuracy, and flexibility. Within this family, three models—3051C, 3051T, and 3051S—stand out as the most widely used. While they share Emerson’s core technology, each is optimized for different applications. Choosing the right one can significantly impact performance, cost, and long-term maintainability.

Quick Overview

Rosemount 3051C – The Versatile Workhorse

1. Design: Coplanar platform, allowing easy integration with primary elements (orifice plates, Annubars, DP level systems).
2. Strengths: Flexibility across differential, gauge, and absolute pressure.
3. Best For: Plants needing a reliable, cost-effective transmitter for a wide range of applications.
4. Why Choose It: Balances performance and affordability; ideal for standard process control loops.

Rosemount 3051T – The In-Line Specialist

1. Design: In-line body, compact and rugged.
2. Strengths: Optimized for direct pressure measurement (no coplanar manifold required).
3. Best For: Applications where only gauge or absolute pressure is needed, such as pump discharge, compressor suction, or vessel pressure monitoring.
4. Why Choose It: Simpler installation and lower footprint compared to coplanar designs.

Rosemount 3051S – The Premium Choice

1. Design: Built on Emerson’s SuperModule™ platform, offering scalable performance and diagnostics.
2. Strengths: Industry-leading accuracy, extended turndown, advanced diagnostics, SIL 2/3 safety certifications.
3. Best For: High-value processes where accuracy, safety, and lifecycle cost matter most—such as custody transfer, energy management, or critical reactor control.
4. Why Choose It: Delivers the lowest total cost of ownership over time, despite higher upfront investment.

Selection Guide

When deciding between the three, consider:

1. Application Type

• Differential pressure flow/level → 3051C
• Direct gauge/absolute pressure → 3051T
• High-accuracy or safety-critical → 3051S

2. Budget vs. Performance

• Standard control loops → 3051C
• Mid-range, simple installs → 3051T
• Premium, long-term savings → 3051S

3. Lifecycle Considerations

• If you need advanced diagnostics, predictive maintenance, or SIL compliance, the 3051S is the clear winner.
• For plants standardizing across multiple applications, the 3051C offers the broadest flexibility.

Conclusion

The Rosemount 3051 family is designed to cover everything from everyday process control to the most demanding measurement challenges.

1. Choose 3051C for versatility,
2. 3051T for straightforward in-line pressure,
3. 3051S for premium performance and safety.