Festo Flow Sensors – Optimal Performance & Energy Efficiency

Festo offers a wide selection of flow sensors for precise monitoring and control, ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency in industrial systems.

Gathering accurate and real-time data is the key to optimising machine performance and process efficiency in industry. IO-Link technology empowers machine builders by providing enhanced access to data from sensors and actuators, enabling a deeper understanding of machine operations. This increased visibility translates directly into higher productivity and reduced operating costs. 

In the following overview, we’ll explore the various options that IO-Link offers to help drive smarter, more efficient manufacturing processes.

Festo’s range of IO-Link-compatible sensors, valve terminals, electric drives, and vacuum components enhances automation systems with real-time data and control, supporting AI-driven processes, energy efficiency, and preventive maintenance.

Choosing the Right Flow Sensor: SFAH vs. SFAM

Flow sensors are vital for measuring and controlling the flow of liquids and gases in industrial settings. Selecting the right sensor ensures accuracy and efficiency. Below is a brief comparison of the SFAH and SFAM flow sensors.

SFAH: Versatile for Critical Functions

  • Accuracy: 3%
  • Flow Range: 8
  • Max Flow: 200 l/min, 10 bar pressure
  • Measures mass/volume flow, suitable for vacuum
  • Features: Display, 2 switching points, automatic differential measurement, multiple mounting options, IP40/IP54

SFAM: Energy-Efficient Choice

  • Accuracy: 3%
  • Flow Range: 5
  • Max Flow: 15,000 l/min, 16 bar pressure
  • Measures mass/volume and pressure combined
  • Features: Display, energy measurement, 2 switching points, IP60/IP65

Both sensors provide accurate measurements and multiple mounting options, but SFAM’s broader flow range and pressure measurement make it ideal for energy-focused applications, while SFAH is suitable for vacuum environments.

Festo Flow Sensors - Optimal Performance & Energy Efficiency
Festo Flow Sensors – Optimal Performance & Energy Efficiency

Choosing the Right Pressure Sensor: SPAE, SPAN, and SPAU

Pressure sensors are essential for monitoring and controlling pressure in industrial processes. Here’s a comparison of three Festo pressure sensors:

SPAE: Compact and Lightweight

  • Accuracy: 3% Full Scale
  • Pressure Range: 2, Max Pressure: 10 bar
  • Suitable for vacuum, 1 switching point
  • Outputs: 1-5 V, IP40

SPAN: Versatile All-Rounder

  • Accuracy: 1.5% Full Scale
  • Pressure Range: 14, Max Pressure: 10 bar
  • Suitable for vacuum and pressure, 2 switching points
  • Outputs: 1-5 V, 0-10 V, 4-20 mA, IP65

SPAU: Precision for Critical Applications

  • Accuracy: 1.5% Full Scale
  • Pressure Range: 13, Max Pressure: 16 bar
  • Suitable for vacuum and pressure, 2 switching points
  • Outputs: 1-5 V, 0-10 V, 4-20 mA, IP65

SPAE is ideal for compact applications, SPAN offers versatility across many uses, and SPAU delivers precision in demanding environments.

Choosing the Right Cylinder Sensor: SMT, SDBT-MSX, SDAC, SDAS, and SDAT

Cylinder sensors detect the magnetic field of a piston magnet in pneumatic drives, providing feedback on piston rod position. Here’s a comparison of five Festo cylinder sensors:

SMT: Reliable Standard Sensor

  • Solid State
  • Drop-in Installation
  • LED Feedback
  • C-slot compatible
  • Connection: Loose threads, M8, M12

SDBT-MSX: Versatile and Time-Saving

  • Solid State
  • Drop-in Installation
  • LED Feedback
  • Space-saving and time-saving
  • C-slot compatible
  • Connection: Loose threads, M8

SDAC: Flexible with 2 Switching Points (C-slot)

  • Solid State
  • 2 adjustable setpoints
  • Max Stroke: 30 mm
  • C-slot compatible
  • Connection: Loose threads, M8

SDAS: Flexible with 2 Switching Points (T-slot)

  • Solid State
  • 2 adjustable setpoints
  • Max Stroke: 50 mm
  • T-slot compatible
  • Connection: Loose threads, M8

SDAT: Long-Distance Control

  • Solid State
  • Adjustable switching window
  • Max Stroke: 150 mm
  • Continuous reading position
  • T-slot compatible
  • Connection: Loose threads, M8, M12

Each sensor offers unique benefits, from SMT’s reliability to SDAT’s long-distance control.

Selecting the Right Optical Sensor: SOOE Models

Optical sensors are vital in industrial applications, offering precise detection through light-based technology. Festo’s SOOE series provides reliable performance across various use cases. Here’s a comparison of the different SOOE models:

SOOE-RS: Retro-Reflective Sensor

  • Detects objects using a reflector
  • Ideal for long-range applications

SOOE-MS: Distance Sensor

  • Provides accurate distance measurements
  • Suitable for precise object spacing

SOOE-BS: Background Suppression Sensor

  • Detects objects without background interference
  • Ideal for complex environments

SOOE-KS: Contrast Sensor

  • Detects colour contrasts or markings
  • Perfect for high-speed production lines

SOOE-TB: Diffuse Sensor

  • Detects objects based on direct light reflection
  • Suitable for short-range detection

Each sensor offers specific features, from long-range detection to colour differentiation, ensuring precise detection for various industrial needs.

IO-Link is a communication protocol that enables real-time data collection from sensors and system components, essential for preventive maintenance, AI applications, and energy savings. Festo’s IO-Link-compatible products ensure optimised performance and data accessibility. Here’s an overview:

Sensors

  • Position Detection: SDAT, SOIA, SPAE, SPAN
  • Pressure: SPAE, SPAN, SPAU
  • Flow: SFAH, SFAM

Valve Terminals

  • VTUG: Integrated with IO-Link for improved control

Electric Drives

  • OVEL: Precise motion control with IO-Link integration
  • OVTL: Advanced drives with flexible, IO-Link compatibility

Vacuum

  • NEBA: Vacuum systems supporting IO-Link for enhanced monitoring

Connectivity

  • SMS: Facilitates communication and data transfer via IO-Link

These products offer real-time feedback, improved control, and seamless integration into smart systems for increased operational efficiency and reduced downtime.

Streamline Your Industrial Operations with Festo Automation Solutions

Festo’s sensors, valves and drives with IO-Link give you real-time data and precision control of your processes. As an approved Festo automation partner, J LL Leach can help you be more efficient and save costs. Get in touch today.