Digital Diagnosis Champion

The digital flow switch of the PF3W-Z/L series from SMC offers a digital communication interface and extensive device diagnostics thanks to the IO-Link output. (Photos: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

When processes depend on the flow of liquids, the highest measurement accuracy is essential. Whether monitoring the cooling water of casting machines and welding tongs or the circulating medium of cooling and tempering devices: only with all relevant data can it be ensured that processes run smoothly. With the new digital flow switch PF3W-Z/L from SMC, companies can ensure that this important task is performed more efficiently and cost-effectively, while also achieving higher process safety.

From the semiconductor industry to automotive and laser industries: everywhere, process engineers must ensure that liquids flow through their machines and systems smoothly and as close to the ideal range as possible. Precise measurements are indispensable for this. To guarantee process efficiency and safety, SMC engineers have enhanced their series PF3W-Z/L digital flow switches with an IO-Link output. This enables continuous device diagnostics in real time, allowing immediate responses to deviations.

All data at a glance – and much more

Precision is crucial in cooling processes. If not guaranteed, unnecessary costs can arise. In the worst case, process disruptions or even complete failures occur. To keep customers informed about the flow rate in their systems at all times and to enable immediate intervention in case of errors, SMC has expanded its digital flow switch series. Thanks to a new output for the open communication interface IO-Link, device problems can be detected in real time based on the use of cyclic and acyclic data. On the two-line, three-color display, users can read not only the flow rate but also data for setpoint, cumulative value, and maximum and minimum values directly on the device. Customers can easily switch between parameters using UP/DOWN buttons. Additionally, the display is rotatable and can be aligned horizontally or vertically after installation without tools, making reading easier even from unfavorable positions. At the same time, the IO-Link output allows remote access to device and process status data: this increases process efficiency, improves process safety, and reduces overall costs.

High process safety with a comprehensive performance package

The IO-Link communication protocol offers numerous advantages, such as shorter commissioning times or easy device replacement, since parameters are stored in the master. The connection is completed within seconds via standard wiring using an M8 connector. The PF3W-Z/L series also provides additional safety by meeting the IP65 protection class, protecting against dust ingress and water jets from any angle.

The new solution, like other digital flow switches in the PF3W series, impresses with compact dimensions, approximately 40% smaller than previous versions. The rated flow for water ranges from 0.5 to a maximum of 250 l/min. An integrated temperature sensor measures the media temperature within the display range of -10 to +110 °C, providing additional diagnostic accuracy for processes. Optionally, SMC’s PF3W-Z/L series is also available with a flow control valve, expanding its application range.