In pneumatics, the FRL unit is a key element as it ensures the proper functioning of the pneumatic equipment, thereby increasing the operating life. At SMC, the FRL unit is not just key, it is the first pneumatics solution the company developed.
1604 – this was the name of the first model with the body in die-cast zinc and the bowl material in AS resin. The sight glass was introduced in 1968 enabling more visible oil dropping within the lubricator. Already in the sixties, SMC’s engineers started addressing the reduction of pressure loss by introducing an auto variable throttle within the lubricator.
Milestones
Over 40 years ago, the inner bowl material was launched and it is still in use today: polycarbonate, bringing with it improved impact, chemical and temperature resistance. Back then and until 2012, it was used for the inner bowl and then protected by a metal bowl guard.
A development launched in 1981 made every maintenance department’s day. Customers were frustrated by the time needed to remove the bowl as it required specific tools. One touch fitting in the filter bowl was the solution provided by SMC’s engineers.
Then, in 1983 the first modular units that removed the need for threaded connections between units were launched. This reduced the overall length of the products and allowed the integration of piping modules such as T and X spacers.
In 2012, the double layer design was introduced to the market. The usage of a transparent polycarbonate bowl guard provides 360° visibility, weight reduction and better resistance to rust or corrosion. All subsequent models have benefited from this.
The modularity developed over the years made it possible that today standard FRL units can easily integrate digital pressure and flow sensors to monitor machine performance and pressure relief valves to add safety measures. With this the overall capabilities of the FRL unit go far beyond pure air treatment.
The latest solution – the AC-D series of modular FRL – hit the market in 2021. These units bring a modern appearance to SMC’s line of air preparation equipment, while maintaining the high performance of previous models. The performance of the filters has been measured according to ISO 12500 and the air purity class expressed according to ISO 8573-1:2010 allowing use in a broad range of applications.
Noise protection for pneumatic knockers Neu Matics SA
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Noise in the workplace not only has serious health consequences, such as damage to the inner ear, headaches, dizziness, and even concentration and sleep disorders, but it also affects productivity. In order to keep operational noise levels as low as possible, singold gerätetechnik offers a range of solutions.
Read more...Versatile cylinder monitoring ifm - South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
This IO-Link cylinder sensor from ifm, with two configurable hardware outputs, will upgrade your machine in no time.
Read more...Hydraulic connectors with residual pressure
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydraulic connections are vital in both outdoor and indoor industrial machinery. However, the hydraulics lines frequently require connecting and disconnecting for maintenance or changeover. The goal is to enable quick, easy swaps to enhance machine flexibility and productivity.
Read more...Selection of two-port valves: an open and shut case SMC Corporation South Africa
Valves, Actuators & Pump Control
Little consideration is generally given to two-port valves because they are often perceived as simple devices that only open and close to control downstream fluid supply. Although this is mechanically true, choosing the optimal two-port valve for your application can make a big difference, saving space, weight and energy consumption.
Read more...Ten considerations for optimum use of vacuum technology
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Vacuum technology plays a huge role in the packaging of foodstuffs and other products. Here are ten considerations to help you use vacuum technology as effectively and efficiently as possible, so that you can optimise processes and cut operating costs.
Read more...Oil-free beer and wine processing
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The food and beverage industry depends on superior quality, 100% oil-free compressed air to eliminate the presence of unwanted oil vapour throughout the production line.
Read more...Choosing a pneumatic knocker Neu Matics SA
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Pneumatic knockers are a valuable tool in minimising buildup of materials and preventing disruptions in material flow in silos, rotary dryers, coolers, granulators and coating drums. This helps plant managers improve production efficiency and product quality.
Read more...Easy couplings for extreme conditions Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
BMG’s Timken Quick-Flex couplings, which require minimal maintenance, are able to withstand extreme applications, including hydraulics, pumps, gearboxes, compressors, vibrator screens, and fans.
Read more...Innovative solutions to boost energy efficiency and cost savings
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As a leading manufacturer of high performance cartridge valves and integrated packages, Sun Hydraulics has gathered a collection of innovative solutions proven to significantly boost and improve energy efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and ultimately provide cost savings for the end-user.
Read more...Create and recover energy all in one check valve
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Energen is a new, high-efficiency check valve from Sun Hydraulics that allows free flow from inlet to outlet, and blocks flow in the opposite direction. Composed of an integrated generator that converts ...
printer friendly version