Numerous functions – compactly integrated

The ionizer in stand-alone design of the IZS51 series impresses with its compact design and the option of a fully integrated valve unit, which additionally saves space. Furthermore, the ionizer features a balancing sensor and an LCD display for status messages and is IO-Link compatible. A new cassette design reduces maintenance effort. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

Across the industry, there are applications that have to deal with static electricity. Companies rely on ionizers in various designs for this purpose—and often have to make compromises due to limited space. SMC has therefore given its established series IZS41 a facelift—with many optimized features. The new ionizer of series IZS51 in stand-up design impresses, among other things, with its compact construction with integrated power supply and is optionally available with an integrated valve—ideal for installation in tight spaces. Users benefit from optimized communication via IO-Link and a new, user-friendly cassette design. Additionally, an automatic balancing sensor ensures higher reliability and easier maintenance.

Whether in the automotive industry, packaging industry, or electronics manufacturing—everywhere, static electricity must be eliminated to prevent component contamination or production errors. To achieve this even in tight spaces and to design space-saving machines, automation specialist SMC has developed the stand-up version of the IZS51 series ionizer. It impresses primarily with its compact design, simplified installation, and easy maintenance. Moreover, the new variant offers the option of a fully integrated valve unit, which not only saves additional space but also reduces flow consumption in standby mode. Furthermore, the ionizer is IO-Link compatible and features an LCD display for status messages as well as an automatic balancing sensor. Additionally, a new cassette design reduces maintenance effort.

Saves space, but not performance

The new ionizer of series IZS51 features a significantly slimmer profile compared to its predecessor. The height has been reduced by 24 mm and the width by 16 mm, resulting in dimensions of only 70 x 28 mm. Both the electrical wiring (M12 connector) and the air supply are located on one side. There is also an option to directly integrate a 2/2-way valve to interrupt the compressed air supply and ion generation. Compared to a separate valve unit, this saves additional space and reduces installation effort thanks to less wiring. In standby mode, the valve reduces flow to zero and decreases power consumption to just 25% of the amount required during static electricity elimination.

At the same time, the ionizer does not compromise on performance: reducing static electricity from 1000 V to 100 V on a charged plate at a distance of 100 mm is achieved in just 0.1 seconds. An automatic balancing sensor ensures that not only an equal number of positive and negative ions are produced but also regulates the offset voltage for a constant voltage. This improves air quality for a healthier environment, reduces maintenance, and lowers power consumption. Overall, users benefit from high performance in a small space, simplified wiring and installation, reduced error susceptibility, and lower energy costs.

Performance advantages in design and communication

An additional strength of the new ionizer lies in its redesigned cassette. Instead of separate air flows, these are combined into a single airflow: the same air flows around the electron needle (optionally made of tungsten or silicon) and is also used to support ion transfer. This results in less contamination of the electron needles, reduces maintenance effort, and shortens the time to eliminate static electricity by about 14% compared to the previous model. Depending on the application, there is also a choice between different cassette variants: from high to medium to low flow.

In terms of communication and overview, the series IZS51 also impresses. Thanks to IO-Link compatibility, the ion balance can be monitored remotely via IO-Link cycle data, component errors can be queried, and parameters can be quickly and securely set—even with an automatic copy function when replacing a device. Control and parameter setting can be made even more conveniently via remote control. The result: easier remote maintenance and control, avoidance of setting errors, and reduced work effort. Additionally, an integrated two-color LCD display enhances user-friendliness. It allows the operating status, such as frequency, offset voltage, or maintenance, including error detection, to be checked at a glance on the device.