SMC Launches Latest Solutions: Vacuum Filters and a Wireless System with IO-Link
SMC has released a new series of vacuum filters to keep vacuum equipment running optimally. The company has also added IO-Link to its existing compact EXW1 wireless system.
Global pneumatic technology company SMC has added to its portfolio of offerings with the addition of a new series of vacuum filters, one for large flow rates and one for water and dust removal. SMC has also added the popular IO-Link protocol to its existing wireless device, the compact EXW1 series.
SMC’s AFJ-D series of vacuum filters include two types: one for large flow rates and one for water drop removal. Image used courtesy of SMC
Vacuum Filters
Vacuum systems are commonly used in automation equipment to pick up non-porous materials such as glass, plastic, and some paper products. The vacuum source can come from a vacuum pump located within the equipment or factory, or a vacuum generator can convert air pressure to vacuum directly at the source.
When using a vacuum system, a vacuum filter is required to filter out small particulates from entering the rest of the pneumatic system. The debris can come from fittings with the system or dust on the parts being picked up. Moisture in a vacuum can be just as damaging as moisture in a compressed air system, so some vacuum filters have water removal features along with filters.
The AFJ-D series vacuum filters are designed to keep vacuum equipment running optimally by keeping foreign matter at bay. Image used courtesy of SMC
AFJ-D Series Vacuum Filters
SMC’s new AFJ-D series vacuum filter comes in two types: one for large flow rates and one for removing water and particulates. Both versions can be ordered with a 5 μm, 40 μm, or 80 μm filter. Standard port sizes of ⅛, ¼, ⅜, and ½ are all supported. The water droplet removal system uses a vortex flow that removes water with centrifugal force while still removing small particulates.
The filter resides inside a dual polycarbonate bowl that is visible from 360°. The filter element and bowl can be replaced as one unit, allowing for quick and easy installation. The AFJ-D filter works at an operating temperature of -5 to 60 °C and a pressure of -100 to 0 kPa. The filter bowl has a capacity of 8 to 45 cm3, depending on the model chosen. Both the 40 μm and 80 μm filters are washable. The 5 μm filter is made of a non-woven fabric and is not washable.
SMC has added IO-Link capability to the compact EXW1 series wireless system. Image used courtesy of SMC
Compact and Modular Wireless Connectivity
There are many factors involved when deciding to use a wireless infrastructure within a factory, security and reliability being the top two. If a remote I/O block were to lose communication, the equipment would come to a halt. Even worse, if the wireless signal were to become corrupt, incorrect signals could cause damage to the surrounding equipment. SMC’s existing wireless devices use standard fieldbus protocol for higher security and offer megabit speeds up to 100 m. Now, SMC has added the popular IO-Link protocol to the list of fieldbus protocols supported on the compact type EXW1 series wireless system.
IO-Link compatible input or output devices can now be directly paired to an EXW1 without needing an EX600-W. Image used courtesy of SMC
EXW1 EX600-W Series Wireless System
SMC’s EXW1 is a wireless communication module that can be used with the EX600-W, the wireless module for SMC’s popular field I/O and valve bank technology. When the EXW1 and the EX600-W are combined, SMC provides a powerful and secure wireless connection to inputs, outputs, and pneumatic valves.
The EXW1 has multiple diagnostic LEDs to show the connected remote devices and their signal strength. The signal strength of each connected device can also be downloaded as a CSV file when connected to the EXW1 web portal. Each EXW1 uses an encrypted signal to and from the remote device, providing a secure high-speed connection. Thanks to the paired product ID protocol, multiple wireless EXW1 bases can be used in the same area, and each EXW1 can pair with up to 15 EX600-W modules.
With the new IO-Link capability of the EXW1, designers can pair IO-Link compatible input or output devices directly to an EXW1 without needing an EX600-W. This allows for more than just inputs and outputs to be wirelessly controlled but also motion control, such as stepper motor controllers or pressure regulators.
Wireless communication not only reduces the number of cables running throughout the equipment but also helps solve mobile and motion solutions and advances AGV technology.
