New flow and pressure sensors feature status-check IO-Links

Festo has launched two new easy-to-use sensors with an IO-Link output that enable engineers to check the status of their processes readily and increase production efficiencies. Developed in response to the trend for increased monitoring and diagnostics, the SFAW is the first flow sensor from Festo for sensing liquid media and the SPAU is a new modular system designed for the monitoring of pressure and vacuum in process and factory automation applications. The sensors are available with IO-Link output options and the modular electrical output concept makes the sensors extremely flexible and open, allowing simple integration into numerous control systems. They are also available with switchable PNP / NPN output, which means users can simplify their stock management and make cost savings associated with reduced warehousing, says the company. “IO-Link is increasingly being used in the UK for point-to-point serial communication protocol to communicate with sensors and/or actuators in new automation systems,” said Steve Sands, product manager, Festo. “Remote maintenance and parameterisation as well as simpler sensor change are made possible via IO-Link, which means set-up and changes can be made faster and with less opportunity for errors.” The new pressure and flow sensors are easy to set up and use, combining functionality with simplicity. They have an intuitive menu guidance with a large high-contrast back-lit blue/white/red LCD so users can clearly check the flow and pressure of their systems. The SFAW sensors are ideal for monitoring the flow rate, consumption and optionally, temperature of liquid in cooling circuits, for example in welding guns in the automotive industry or in front-end applications in the semiconductor and other electronics industries. The sensors offer two flow measurement ranges of 1.8 to 32 l/min and 5 to 100 l/min and are suitable for use with liquids that have a viscosity up to 2 mPa/s. Temperature of liquid media can be measured from 0C to +90C. The new SPAU sensor for pressure measurement, monitoring and sensing is designed to keep pressure levels under control, ensuring greater productivity and process reliability as well as faster system commissioning. Pressure indication, pressure switch outputs and analogue value output are all possible in one device and the sensor can reliably measure from 0 – 16 bar. It has a wide range of functions for non-corrosive gases including network, regulator and vacuum monitoring, leak tests and object detection. The sensors are quick and easy to mount in all installation scenarios. The modular concept enables the sensor and connections to be purchased separately, ensuring maximum flexibility during assembly - screw, flange and tubing connection options are available. In addition, the sensor can be changed quickly and easily without the need for specialist tools, minimising downtime. Both the SFAW and SPAU sensors are sealed to IP65 making them suitable for use in harsh process environments. Sanda continued: “Reliable automation and consistent product quality are dependent upon effective process monitoring. Failure can mean expensive product recalls or damage to sophisticated equipment. Customers are increasingly looking to effective sensing solutions to close the loop in their automation processes through monitoring and diagnostic technologies. These new sensors are optimised not only for cost but for the quickest possible commissioning and with their versatile electrical connectivity and mounting system approach they will fulfil the needs of many applications.”