News & Events... The Buzz About SMC!

Weighing only 4.3 grams, the in-line vacuum series ZFC05 is now available. This lightweight vacuum filter solution is only 5 grams.

SMC has expanded its MY cylinder family to now include a low profile rodless cylinder, series MY3M. The new rodless cylinder is lighter in weight than the MY1M and also has a higher loading capability when compared to the MY1M. For more information please request ES20-165.

The series VQ5000 valves offer an extremely high coefficient of volume flow (Cv) up to 4.4, double the Cv of conventional valves commonly described as having large flow characteristics. Available with single or double solenoids in both metal and rubber seal construction, the valves assist rapid actuator movement by offering fast response times of up to 17 ms or less (double coil, metal seal model). These valves have a life expectancy of 100 million cycles or more and come with IP65 enclosure protection for terminal block box, lead wire, and serial communication type electrical connection. The D sub and flat ribbon cable connectors are rated to IP40 enclosure. These valves also come in various solenoid voltages including, 12, 24V in DC, and 100, 110, 200, 220 V in AC power supply. The valves with DC power supply, comes with standard power consumption of 1W and 0.5W with optional low power consumption coil. The series VQ5000 manifold comes with a wide range of manifold options including a combination of a supply/exhaust block plate and a spacer that enables supply of compressed air at different pressures to separate stations on the same manifold. For more details about the Series VQ5000 valve/manifold, and how it can serve your needs, please contact one of the 24 SMC sales offices near you.

Just released, the ZA series vacuum ejector, available with built in pressure sensors (PSE541/PSE543). This new ejector is a resin body, weighing in at just 50 grams with pressure sensor attached! At just half the width and weight of our ZX series, this light body enables end of arm tooling and reduces piping length, enabling much faster response times. A flow control needle valve comes standard, along with the option of having one-touch fittings installed in the supply and vacuum ports. Minimum and maximum operating pressures are 0.2 and 0.5 MPa respectively. The ZA uses our reliable VQ series for both supply and release valves and is available with a low wattage option that reduces power consumption to 0.5W. For more information visit www.smcpdf.com and order catalog ES100-55 or contact your local SMC representative for more information.

Pin clamp series CKQ is a 50mm bore size, double acting cylinder with a 10mm clamp stroke. High life expectancy is achieved with a tin coated, stainless steel guide pin and a non-lube cylinder design. To meet a wide range of installation conditions, multiple body shape options and multiple clamp arm positions are available. Also available with a compact locking mechanism (series CLKQ). Request catalog ES20-183 or flyer NPP-E03-10.

The CJP series just got bigger. Or did it just get smaller? The series is now available in four bore sizes including the smallest addition: the 4mm bore size. Typical applications include clamping, pushing, or stopping small parts. The 4mm bore size is available as single acting with panel mounting or plug mounting styles. If you are interested in more information, please contact your local SMC rep and request flyer NPP-E05-2.

Series RZQ provides an intermediate stop mechanism while keeping to a short, compact overall length (up to a 45% reduction compared to a conventional dual stroke cylinder). First-stage strokes can be freely specified without changing overall tube length. Stroke increments of 5mm are standard with the option of 1mm increments available. With an operating range between 0.1 MPa and 1.0 MPa (~14-145 psi), these 2-stage stroke cylinders come standard in bore sizes 32, 40, 50 and 63mm. For more info visit www.smcetech.com

An exciting new addition to our popular angular gripper series. The MHCM2-7S is our smallest gripper yet! A 2-finger, single acting gripper with a total body length of only 23mm! This gripper has an opening/closing angle of 20 degrees to –7 degrees and a gripping moment value of 0.017 Newton meters. Also a part of the MHC series expansion is the MHC2-6 and the MHCA2-6. The grippers are available in either single or double acting. Body options available are side ported, axial ported with one-touch fitting, or an M3 port. Call your local SMC rep or check out www.smcetech.com

MLGC – Need a guided cylinder with a built in locking mechanism? Then the MLGC series is the answer. Taken from our CLG1 and MGC technology, the MLGC cylinder offers users the ability to stop at any point along stroke (up to +/-0.5mm stopping accuracy). Offered in bore sizes 20, 25, 32 and 40mm, this cylinder can operate at speeds anywhere between 50 and 500mm/sec. Three types of locking mechanisms are available including; spring lock (exhaust lock), pneumatic lock (pressure lock) and spring and pneumatic lock. Mounting options include basic and front flange, this cylinder may also be ordered with or with out the rear plate. See SMC Best Pneumatics Book 9, section 4 or call your local SMC rep for more details.

VR51 – Safety first in this 2-hand control valve. With the new VR51 series, a synchronized output is available (within 0.5 seconds). This hand valve can be ordered with flame resistant 6 mm or ¼” one touch fittings. Accessories include a silencer and bracket for either backside or bottom mounting. This press control is EN574 approved. See catalog ES12-7 for more details or contact your local SMC sales rep.

KQG – Stainless Steel one-touch fittings are here! Constructed of SUS316 stainless steel except for seal parts, these fittings offer superior resistance to heat and chemicals. Perfect for wash down or steam applications. Nine types are available (branch tee, straight union, union elbow, hexagon socket head male connector, union tee, branch "Y", male connector, bulkhead union, male elbow) with 73 part numbers now available. Flyer NP039-A is now available to order through www.smcpdf.com

Basic cylinder and auto-switch designed specifically for washdown applications or applications where the cylinder is exposed to liquid. The HYC series also conforms to the ISO 6431 dimensional standard.

Short length version of hygienic cylinder. Available in 6 bore sizes (20mm to 63mm). Request catalog ES20-186 for more information on SMC's complete line of hygienic actuators.

SMC Corporation of America is proud to announce the release of the Pneumatic Industry’s first Guided Hygienic Actuator, Series HYG. This actuator provides the high loading capabilities of a guided cylinder and can also be used in hygienic washdown applications or in applications where the cylinder is exposed to liquid. The HYG series outperforms traditional cylinders when liquids make direct contact with the sliding parts of the cylinder. Standard features include multiple porting locations (top porting or side porting), a rail-mounted hygienic auto-switch for improved washdown capabilities, and guide rods that are completely recessed within the cylinder guide body. This cylinder is currently available in 6 bore sizes ranging from 20mm to 63mm with standard stroke lengths up to 200mm. Request catalog ES20-186 for more information on SMC’s complete line of hygienic actuators.

SMC Corporation of America is proud to display its new line of stainless steel and hygienically designed products for wash-down applications. New KQG series all 316 stainless steel One-Touch fittings with FKM seals for corrosion and heat resistance. CG5 series actuators constructed of 304 stainless steel using NBR or FKM water resistant piston rod scrapers. Hygienic actuators based on current SMC compact, ISO, and guided cylinder designs have rounded bodies for easy cleaning, and elimination of liquid pooling on the actuator's exterior.

Additional stroke lengths are now available with air cushion type compact guided actuator series MGP-A. The standard MGP actuator features a strong aluminum-bodied actuator flanked by large guide rods in either ball bearing or slide bushings. The MGP-A adds integral adjustable stroke-end air cushions to dampen shock by 3X and extend the life of the actuator. The MGP-A series actuators are available in bore sizes from 16 to 100mm, and now in various stroke lengths from 25 to 400mm. Request catalog ES20-117 and ask your SMC representative for details on the new longer stroke lengths.

SMC is proud to announce the launch of the SMC Now! campaign. Over the past year, SMC-US has spent many millions of dollars on additional inventory, new factory machinery and process improvements in order to improve deliveries and overall customer satisfaction.

The popular CQM series has been expanded to include three additional bore sizes: 63mm, 80mm and 100mm. With multiple uses in lifting and pushing applications, this series fills a product gap between traditional compact cylinders and higher load guide rod cylinders such as SMC’s MGP series. The CQM series is manufactured at SMC’s Tustin, California factory (12mm to 63mm bore sizes) and SMC’s Indianapolis, Indiana factory (80mm and 100mm bore sizes). See catalog NS20-179B for more information.

Series RLQ integrates a locking mechanism and a unique new style of air cushions into a compact cylinder. Typical applications include drop prevention, workpiece clamping and emergency stopping. By using the same extrusion as the cylinder itself, the lock unit portion of the cylinder has a simple design and does not have any unnecessary projections. Also, the simple one-way lock mechanism is lightweight and compact, allowing installation in tight spaces. The air cushion design is also compact and utilizes a unique construction that does not require a cushion ring. See catalog ES20-177 for more information.

Two entirely new cylinder lines have been released, the LZB and LZC series electric cylinders. The electric cylinders allow positional control not possible with pneumatic cylinders, but without the high cost and complexity of stepper motor and servomotor actuators. The LZB/C series electric cylinders are operated just like one would a solenoid valve--turn on A for retract and turn on B for extend. A very simple controller (series LC3F) enables users to adjust the force to suit the application. The cylinders are available with trunnions and numerous other mounting options, and can be fitted with conventional auto-switches to sense piston position.

Three new bore sizes have been added to complement the RSH series of heavy-duty stopper cylinders. Series RS1H is available in 50, 63, and 80mm bores with a stroke length of either 30 or 40mm. These stopper cylinders are designed to stop pallets gently, and employ a built-in shock absorber. The shock absorber is replaceable and can be adjusted to suit the load. The roller lever atop the cylinder can be rotated in 90º steps so the ports and limit switches will point the way you want them to. An optional lever lock mechanism prevents the pallet from rebounding from the lever spring force. Request catalog ES20-118 for more information.

Vane type rotary actuator series CRB2 features rotation angles of 90, 180, and 270º, unrestricted auto-switch mounting, low-pressure operation, as well as excellent durability and reliability. Request catalog ES20-159(A).

Bar type ionizer designed for general manufacturing industries such as semiconductor, liquid crystal & PVD products, plastic mouldings, anywhere static electricity may influence productivity or product quality. Prevents dust adsorptions; prevents sticking to plastic molds; prevents electrostatic discharge damage over semiconductor & flat panel display manufacturing processes. Features a direct sensing of charge, removal of static electricity at high speed (0.3s) by generating the most appropriate ion polarity. LED indicator light tells status of ion generation. Easily replacable ion cartridges facilitate easy cleaning and replacement of discharge probes. Low 4W power consumption. Bar lengths 300mm to 1900mm.

A large-bore 125mm size is now available in the MB series tie-rod cylinder line. The MB series features high kinetic energy absorption ability, a compact design, improved custion performance, accurate mounting, and minimized rod deflection. The MB series is also available in 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, 63mm, 80mm, and 100mm bore sizes. See catalog ES20-85A for more information.

Series MNB tie-rod cylinders with built-in piston rod lock are ideal for use in applications requiring emergency stops, intermediate positioning, or rod locking to prevent work droppage. The cylinders are available in bore sizes from 32mm to 100mm to suit a wide variety of applications and force requirements. The simple locking mechanism provides high locking efficiency with stable lock/unlock pressures. The lock is based on a simple force-magnifying wedge--and-ball design. The cylinder can be locked in both directions with piston speeds up to 1,000mm/second. The lock design minimalizes the effect of air quality on the lock mechanism, and utilizes lock materials with superior wear resistance. Request catalog E271-A for more information.

Size 8mm bore has been added to fill the gap between 6mm and 10mm sizes of the high rigidity high precision linear guide cylinder series MXP. The cylinder is built right into the rail of the linear guide, and is made from martensitic stainless steel. Like other MXPs, the new MXP8 is auto-switch compatible and offers mounting pins and multiple porting options for installation flexibility. MXP series actuators are highly precise, and have a running parallelism of a mere 0.004mm! MXP8 is available with a stroke length of either 10mm or 20mm. Request catalog ES20-125(C) for more information.

New RB0604 added to the RB stroke shock absorber series. The RB0604 features M6 outside diameter thread and a 4mm stroke, reducing the overall body size by 25% over the 5mm RB0805. The RB0604 can accept up to 0.5J, and an impact speed of 0.3 to 1.0 meters per second, 80 times per minute or less.

Series TU 2mm o.d. (1.2mm i.d.) tubing and series M sub-miniature tube fittings are available for applications where space is more of a concern than flow rate. The tubing features a tight minimum bend radius of just 4mm. The economical tubing is available in 20m rolls of your choice of seven available standard colors. Four fitting types are available--two connect the tubing to a straight or angled M3 or M5 threaded port, and two connect the tubing to larger tubing or plug into a standard KQ2 series one-touch fitting. Request catalog ES50-23A for more information.

Extremely smooth operating low-speed variations of popular tie-rod, round body, and compact cylinders released. The cylinders achieve a stable operation even at speeds as slow as 5mm per second with much less sticking and lurching. Combined with a precision air pressure regulator, these smooth cylinders are ideal for low-cost positioning solutions, such as tensioning a winding roller or applying a consistent pressure to varying size workpieces. Available with compact series CQS and CQ2, round body series CM and CG, and tie rod series CA2. Request catalog #ES20-178A for more information.

SMC has formed a new strategic partnership with Allied Electronics, Inc. Allied will showcase SMC as the sole pneumatic supplier in their upcoming catalog and online at www.alliedelec.com. Allied Electronics will now carry SMC valves, cylinders, FRL, fittings/tubing, instrumentation, and vacuum product to their market through a nationwide network of sales branches and via their catalog and online presentation. Same and next day delivery will be available from their state-of-the-art distribution facility located in Fort Worth, TX.

SMC LX series short stroke DC stepper motor guided actuators are now available CE marked for applications requiring CE compliance. The actuators incorporate precision linear guides with various pitch ball screw or slide screw, driven by a Sanyo Denki 2-phase or 5-phase DC stepper motor. The actuators can be controlled using simple LC6D basic driver or 28-position preset LC6C driver for I/O interfacing with a PLC.

Series EX240 serial network adapter is available to connect SMC series VQ and SV solenoid valve manifolds to DeviceNet®, Interbus-S, and Profibus networks. The Ex240 controls up to 32 solenoid valve coils and 32 sensor inputs, and features foolproof twist-on connectors. A self-diagnosis feature monitors over-current cut-off of the power supply to the sensors and also detects whether the valve voltage drops below 19VDC (normally 24VDC).

Anti-spotting clean vacuum suction cups/pads are now available in a range of bore sizes from 4 to 40mm diameter. Made from PEEK material, the pads are designed not to leave a mark on the workpiece.

New lower-cost gateway type serial network system allows up to 64 inputs and 64 outputs, providing maximum flexibility to connect your solenoid valves, relays, pushbuttons, and sensors. The EX510 series utilizes simple-to-use e-con connectors from 3M and AMP, and make wiring a snap. The EX510 units are compatible with DeviceNet and CC-Link protocols. Click here to email us if you are interested in this product for Rockwell RIO networks. Input units are available for 8 or 16 inputs each, and dedicated cables are available to connect to SMC S0700, SY, SYJ, and VQZ series manifolds.

Series LC6D stepper motor driver is available for 2-phase and 5-phase DC stepper motors. Series LC6C is a positioning stepper driver, and can store 28 pre-programmed absolute or relative move commands, which are called via parallel connection to a PLC. The two LC6 drivers are programmed using LC5 handheld teaching pendant.

Panel-mountable display monitors & controls up to four remotely installed air or water flow sensors. Instead of mounting four separate display heads, a single controller can monitor up to four independent flow rates, giving a 76% reduction in panel mounting space. The IP65 rated display heads feature easy-to-use plug-in econ connectors, channel scan, and a function to copy one channels settings to another. Request flyer NPP-03-9 for more information.

Mix and match pressure solenoid valves with venturi vacuum ejectors on a single manifold. Series ZYY accepts ZY series ejector units with SY series valves on a common SY manifold base (or have a manifold of just ejector units). The ZY ejector units come complete with supply & break valves, a choice of venturi orifice sizes, and an adjustable blowoff. Request catalog E831 for more information.

PSE series remote pressure & vacuum sensors have been expanded to include easy-to-use econ connectors from 3M or AMP. Local stock of the connectors ensures quick delivery. Request catalog ES100-47 for more information.

Series EX500 distributed gateway-type serial network system has been expanded to communicate with Mitsubishi CC-Link networks. The popular EX500 system is also compatible with DeviceNet, Rockwell RIO, and Profibus networks, and can connect up to four independent branches of 16 inputs and 16 outputs for a total of 128 I/O.

D.O.T. tubing series TIV is now available in ten different colors in all eight diameters (from 1/8" to 3/4" od). The tubing is used in air brake systems on heavy-duty vehicles and instrumentation & secondary air systems. Cold and heat stabilized, the DOT tubing is ultra-violet resistant, and is rated to all applicable industry standards. Additionally, the tubing is available in one to three rolls per box, each roll 250, 500, or 1000 feet long (available lengths vary depending on tube diameter). Local manufacturing allows quick delivery.

SMC standard inch-size nylon tubing series TIA is now available in 100, 500, and 1,000 foot rolls (was 20m or 100m). Both inch size TIA and metric size T series tubing are now manufactured locally for better delivery.

Cam type 180º opening angle type air gripper series MHY2 released. The gripper fingers open a full 180º for speedier cycle times: now machine can start next step as soon as gripper opens (before had to wait for gripper to move out of the way). The MHY is designed with smaller knuckle openings for increased dust resistance, and stainless steel fingers are standard. Autoswitches can be mounted in four locations on the MHY2, which is available in four bore sizes from 10 to 25mm.

Series CNA tie-rod cylinder with piston rod lock mechanism is now available; the cylinder is suitable for intermediate stops, emergency stops, and drop prevention. Its simple construction gives increased holding power from wedge effect due to the tapered ring and steel ball design. A manual override is standard, allowing users to release the lock with a standard wrench in the event air pressure is lost; the lock is engaged by default as a failsafe. Its high locking effect and stable locking and release are enabled by two rows of precision steel balls (unlock pressure is a low 0.25MPa, lower than other SMC locking cylinders). In addition, both alignability and stable locking force with respect to piston rod eccentricity are obtained by allowing the tapered ring to float.

The LC8 multi-axis AC servomotor controller-driver is now available for sale in the United States. The LC8 is compatible with SMC electric actuator series LG1, LJ1, and LTF with 115/230VAC motors from 50 to 200W. The positioning driver can be operated from a PLC to perform up to 117 pre-programmed actions, and the actuator acceleration and deceleration can both be adjusted independently. System setup is easy with the included HMI (human:machine interface) software CD for Windows® PCs.

The NCQ8 compact cylinder is based on the CQS/CQ2 cylinder, but is a drop-in replacement to the previous version NCQ7 as well as Bimba's Flat-1®. Manufactured in SMC's Los Angeles plant, the NCQ8 comes with all the features you expect on a compact cylinder, including single & double action, single & double rod, various mount options, rubber stroke bumpers, and auto switch capability.

The MGJ miniature guide rod cylinder is now in stock and ready for immediate shipment. The MGJ is ideal for applications that require high side load and high non-rotational accuracy in an extremely compact package. The MGJ offers excellent non-rotational accuracy of ±1º. Operating pressure ranges from 0.15 to 0.7 MPa, and operating speed ranges from 50 to 500 mm/sec. The MGJ cylinder requires no lubrication and may be operated in temperatures ranging from –10 to 60ºC. Rubber bumpers are standard. Request catalog ES20-181 for more information.

SMC's Indianapolis factory now produces the new CA2 series tie rod cylinders, discontinuing production of the previous model CA1. The CA2 is a drop-in rreplacement to the CA1 tie rod cylinder. The most significant difference is that non-lube is now standard, and the lube type is not offered. The CA2 has many technical advantages over the CA1; please request catalog ES20-176 for more information.

The ARM10 & ARM11 series compact pressure regulators feature standalone or manifolded configurations, with convenient options that allow you to customize the regulators to your needs. The regulators can be panel mounted with their square gauges flush, or can be DIN rail mounted with an optional control valve, pressure switch, and pressure relief valve. The one-touch fitting cartridges are easily changed, like on current SMC valve manifolds. Request catalog ES40-43 for more information.

ISO/VDMA standard air cylinder series C95 has been expanded to include new options. Four larger bore sizes have been added for more force: 125, 160, 200, and 250mm. Also, a rod locking mechanism is available on the C95N. The exhaust type spring lock acts upon a taper ring that is magnified by a wedge effect, pressing on surrounding steel balls. These act on the brake shoe and lock the piston rod by tightening against it with a large force. Unlocking is accomplished when air pressure is supplied to the unlocking port. A manual override option is included for safety and convenience. Ask your account representative for document #2408.010 and 2408.030.

7mm body direct-operated 3-port solenoid valve series S070 features low 0.35W power consumption (optional 0.1W), extremely compact and lightweight 5-gram body, quiet 38dB(A) operation, and Cv range from 0.006 to 0.021. The valves operate with pressures from 102Pa vacuum to 0.5MPa, and come with M3, M5, or barb port fittings. Valve actuation is poppet type direct-operated solenoid. For more information request catalog ES11-85A.

High-performance low-cost electro-pneumatic regulator series ITV have been expanded to add many new digital pressure control options, including DeviceNet, 16-bit BCD, and 10-bit parallel ASCII control types. For more information ask your account representative to reference document #4822.020.

Sponge-type vacuum suction cups/pads are now available in a number of sizes and pad materials, both with and without spring-loaded stroke buffer. Conductive anti-static sponge rubber is available for static-sensitive applications, and innovative optional sponge-lined bellows pads allow for picking up irregular or angled workpieces. For more information ask your account representative to reference document 5617.010.

SMC's newest digital pressure switch is rated for high pressures up to 15MPa (2,175psi), and is compatible with shop air or general fluids. The ISE70 series switches feature a die-cast aluminum body and 2-color red/green digital readout display (MPa or PSI). The colors of the display can be configured to your needs--green when normal and red when your setpoint is reached, or the other way around. You can also set the LEDs to always-green or always-red. The switches are IP67 rated for long life, and come with industry-standard straight or angled M12 connectors. Choose ISE70 for air pressures up to 145psi (1MPa), ISE75 for general fluids up to 1,450psi (10MPa), or ISE75H for general fluids up to 2,175psi (15MPa). Request catalog ES100-52 for more information.

Series IP8000 positioners regulate valve position based on electronic input signals. The positioners are available in lever feedback type for diaphragm valves and cam feedback type for rotary valves, and feature a centralized exhaust check valve that prevents ingress of dust, water, or debris. The IP8000 is IP65 and JIS F8007 rated. An optional explosion-proof terminal box and cable connector is available for Exsd2BT5 (IEC 79) approval. Request catalog ES60-18 for more information.

Stainless steel normally-closed high vacuum solenoid valve series XSA are available in four orifice sizes from 2mm to 6mm (Cv from 0.17 to 1.05), and operate on either 6 to 100VDC or 100VAC (built-in full-wave rectifier). XSA high vacuum valves connect to either Swagelok® or VCR® type fittings, and feature impressively low leak rates of 1.3 x 10^-11 Pa•m³/s (VCR) and 1.3 x 10^-10 Pa•m³/s (Swagelok). Series XSA valves are rated to 2 million cycles service life. Request catalog E829 for more information.

Series XL high vacuum angle valves are lightweight and compact, offering a large conductance with a small valve body. Six body sizes are available, from 16 to 80mm. Aluminum-body XL valves offer high fluorine resistance and little heavy metal contamination, yet their low outgassing makes it possible to use a lower capacity vacuum pump for a shorter evacuation time. Aluminum's excellent thermal conductivity gives a uniform baking temperature with decreased condensation. Many variations are available; request catalog E829 for more information.

Three additional larger bore sizes and an end lock option added to MGG series dual-guide-rod actuators. Use order code H for head-side locking, code R for rod-side locking. End lock option is available in all bore sizes, including new 63, 80, and 100mm bores. Request catalog ES20-51F for more information.

Series MIW 2-finger and MIS 1-finger escapement actuators in effective bore sizes 8, 25, and 32mm have been added to the existing 12 and 20mm sizes for increased range. The escapements are ideal for separating and feeding individual parts from vibratory feeders, magazines, and hoppers. Request catalog ES20-163 for more information.

Magnetically coupled rodless cylinders CY3B (basic type) and CY3R (direct-mount type) feature improved durability--a 70% longer wear ring improves bearing performance over previous model CY1B. A special resin soft wiper has been added to the dust seal to achieve ideal lubrication. In addition to the Rc port threads offered on CY1 models, the new CY3 is now available with NPT or G port threads. Mounting dimensions are identical with CY1 for backwards compatibility. Request catalog ES20-172A for more information.

Reduced footprint mechanically jointed rodless cylinder series MY3 reduce overall length by up to 140mm, and height up to 36%. The MY3 is available in four bore sizes (16, 25, 40, & 63mm) and two cushion types (rubber or air cushion). The uniquely designed piston shape enables reduction of the height and length as well as practical arrangement of the common piping passages, cushion mechanism and positioning mechanism. This achieves a dramatic miniaturization and weight reduction. Request catalog ES20-165A for more information.

Series ITV1000 compact electronic pressure regulators join the ITV line-up, and fill the gap between larger ITV2000s (which flow up to 1,500 L/min) and the smaller ITV0000s (up to 6 L/min). At just over 80mm tall and 50mm square, the ITV1000 is conveniently compact yet can regulate air pressure in lines flowing up to 200 L/min. The ITV1000 has both threaded ports and a modular face to mount to all SMC FRLs (filters-regulators-lubricators). Request new catalog ES60-15D for more information.

Series D-B3 high temperature resistant (120ºC/250ºF) reed switch can be mounted on SMC's non-lube type CDA1BN and MDBB series tie-rod cylinders in high heat environments like the vicinity of an industrial furnace etc. Their compact design minimizes height and projects only a small amount from the cylinder. Location in an adverse environment is improved by expanding the detection zone. Conduit terminal type and grommet types are available. The conduit type can use any lead wire; the grommet type has better water resistance. Request SMC Information flyer number 01-E495 for more information.

Heavy-duty rotating clamp cylinder series MK2 released in 6 bore sizes: 20mm, 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, and 63mm. The rotating clamp head allows for compact equipment designs, such as in electronic parts inspection or anywhere mounting space is limited. The switches are auto-switch capable for PLC feedback; a solid-state switch designed especially for use in welding applications is also available on larger bore sizes. The clamp cylinders work with pressures up to 1MPa (145psi) and temperatures up to 150ºC (300ºF). Request catalog 2_4_01 MK_MK2 for more information.

Production of CQM series compact cylinder with guides begins at the SMC West Coast Manufacturing Facility in Tustin, California. The CQM cylinder incorporates slide bearings into the CQS/CQ2 series extrusion, which creates an extremely compact guided cylinder. Request catalog ES20-179 or flyer NPP-02-3 for more information.

Inline air flow sensor with either built-in or remote digital LED display senses flow rates from 1 to 12,000 liters/minute (420cfm). The IP65 sensors offer a variety of outputs: 2 NPN or 2 PNP digital and 1~5VDC or 4~20mADC analog. An additional cumulative output pulse sends a 50ms signal at preset flow intervals. Sensor bodies are available with port sizes from 1/8" to 2" in NPT, RPT, and G port threads. Remote display is panel mountable and connects with an easy twist-on standard M12 4-pin connector. Remote display type shown here; see PF2W photo on this page for built-in sensor type. Request catalog ES100-48 for more information.

Inline liquid flow sensor with either built-in or remote digital LED display senses flow rates from 0.5 to 100 liters/minute (26.4gpm). The IP65 sensors offer a variety of outputs: 2 NPN or 2 PNP digital and 1~5VDC or 4~20mADC analog. An additional cumulative output pulse sends a 50ms signal at preset flow intervals. Sensor bodies are available with port sizes from 3/8" to 1" in NPT, RPT, and G port threads. Connects with an easy twist-on standard M12 4-pin connector. Integral display type shown here; see PF2A photo on this page for remote sensor type. Request catalog ES100-48 for more information.

Series ISA2 "Air Catch Sensor" detects proper workpiece placement within ±0.01mm accuracy. Small air holes in the workpiece resting surface blow air until the workpiece is properly seated; the air catch sensor can sense workpiece placement within 0.01 to 0.5mm ±0.01mm. Use it to check the position of a metal mold or the proper positioning of a workpiece. Large knurled thumbwheel with locking scale and LEDs simplify setting to the optimum position. Built-in plug connectors allow for easy gang-manifolding on brackets or DIN rails. Also available with optional control valve and pressure regulator. Request catalog ES100-45B for more information.

Compact vacuum generator series ZQ creates vacuum suction flow from compressed air supply input. New series ZQ body is only 10mm wide, and weighs just 109 grams, less than half the width of previous series ZX units. The ZQ generators (also called ejectors) also feature built-in one-touch tube fittings for easy hook-up, vacuum pressure switches with LED displays for easy viewing, and easy-to-replace 30 micron suction filters. Low-energy ½W solenoid coils reduce power consumption. Request brochure 01-E492 for more information.

Vacuum suction cup and stroke buffer assembly was supplemented at the SMC Indianapolis Manufacturing Facility to expand the offering of all sizes of ZP, ZPR, and ZPT series flat and bellows type vacuum cups and assemblies in NBR or silicone rubber.

Production of CQS compact cylinder series begins at the SMC West Coast Manufacturing Facility in Tustin, California.

Series PF2D digital flow switch for deionized (DI) water or chemicals uses DuPont Teflon® for all liquid contact areas. The switch uses New PFA material for the body and Super PFA for the integral tubing. The PF2D uses Karman vortex detection to eliminate movable parts and reduce particle generation. No packing construction reduces residual liquid. Ask for brochure P-01-6A for more information.

SMC responds to published article that flow specifications based on Japanese test standards overstate performance. Article published in Machine Design, October 11, 2001. Review Article