Pneumatic cylinders are components that carry out a movement using compressed air, which is why they are also known as compressed air cylinders. Pneumatic drives are an especially cost-effective solution for a number of application areas – even in extremely tough ambient conditions – and stand out for being really simple to commission. Speeds of between 10 mm/s and 3 m/s can be achieved. Pneumatic cylinders are sturdy and flexible thanks to the compressibility of the air, which also makes them resistant to high external forces.
Pneumatic cylinders are used in numerous applications in automation technology/factory automation. Typical application areas for pneumatic drives are clamping, lifting, countersinking, pushing, pulling, feeding, turning, gripping, clamping and holding, joining, stopping, stamping, embossing and many others.
The range of pneumatic cylinders drives at Festo includes piston rod and rodless cylinders (linear drive), rotary cylinders, tandem, multi-position and stopper cylinders, as well as clamping cylinders, drives with linear guides, and bellows and diaphragm cylinders. As part of the range, we offer many standards-based cylinders with standardised dimensions and mounting interfaces. Cylinders that comply with a specific standard have identical dimensions. There are standards for piston rod cylinders with round design (ISO 6432), compact design (ISO 21287) and for profile and tie rod cylinders (ISO 15552).
Festo piston rod cylinders are pneumatic drives for executing linear movements. The energy applied to the piston is transferred by a piston rod to the parts to be moved. Piston rod cylinders are available as round cylinders, profile cylinders, compact cylinders, short-stroke cylinders, flat cylinders, miniature cylinders, cartridge cylinders or stainless-steel cylinders.
Rodless cylinders are pneumatic cylinders and – as the name suggests – do not have a piston rod. But even without a piston rod they execute linear movements, which is why they are also known as linear drives. Rodless cylinders are primarily used in applications with longer travel distances, e.g. as a basic drive in a multi-axis gantry or for feeding tasks.
Pneumatic semi-rotary drives/rotary drives from Festo enable rotary movements with a swivel angle of up to 270°. Both rotary vane drives and rack-and pinion drives typically achieve maximum precision while also offering excellent performance and great versatility. As a result, our pneumatic drives are used in factory automation across a wide range of industries.
Tandem cylinders are two identical profile-barrel cylinders connected in series to double the thrust force in both directions of movement. A high-force cylinder is a cylinder design that is characterised by pneumatic compact cylinders connected in series. Pneumatic multi-position drives are available in a version that has two separate cylinders and in a version that has two to five cylinders connected in series.
Festo guided cylinders – drives with guide rods and linear guides – are pneumatic drives and are one of the "workhorses" of industrial automation. They are used in a wide range of applications such as lifting, pressing, pulling, pushing, clamping, stopping, holding, cutting, separating and much more. Both types of guided cylinders combine the benefits of linear movement with those of guided motion and stand out thanks to their extremely high stability.
With its feed separators, Festo provides handling technology solutions worldwide. Feed separators simplify the process of feeding in workpieces and are used whenever a continuous flow of workpieces has to be separated and transferred separately to a downstream device. Stopper cylinders are pneumatic cylinders that are used to stop movements, either with or without cushioning, in machines or workpiece carriers on transport systems. Stopper cylinders with cushioning can stop loads of up to approx. 800 kg on transport systems.
Clamping cylinders hold or clamp workpieces either directly with a pneumatically operated clamping element or through kinematics. The clamping element is swivelled out of the working area when it is inactive. They can realise very high holding forces with low energy input thanks to kinematics.
Bellows and diaphragm actuators with their special characteristics are in a class of their own in the world of pneumatics. For example, they have no stick-slip effect. They can be used as drive or pneumatic spring elements in a wide range of applications.
Pneumatic rotary indexing tables can be used to carry out continuous rotary movements. Rotary indexing tables are used, for example, in assembly applications. A variable direction of rotation and freely selectable indexing enable a wide range of applications.
Shock absorbers absorb the energy of a moving drive. The movement of the drive piston is brought to a standstill by rubber elements and/or hydraulically. The relatively gentle stopping before the end position prevents a strong impact as well as a spring-back; it also protects the drive and the machine parts from wear or irreparable damage.
The attachments and accessories for pneumatic cylinders offered by Festo include mounting elements for drives and sensors, piston rod attachments, linear guides, accessories for direct valve mounting, clamping elements, freewheel units, accessories for cushioning elements and drive-specific accessories.
In a pneumatic cylinder, the compressed air is used to exert force on a cylinder piston in order move it in a specific direction. The movement of the piston is transferred to the parts to be moved by a piston rod or a frictional connection. A pneumatic cylinder is a drive operated with compressed air usually up to a maximum of 12 bar in order to generate linear or rotary motion. A distinction should be made between single-acting and double-acting cylinders (work is performed only in one direction or in both directions).
A single-acting pneumatic cylinder only has one compressed air connection. The incoming compressed air moves the piston in one direction, and the cylinder force is built up in this direction. If the piston needs to return to its initial position, the air is simply expelled from the cylinder. The mechanical spring pushes the piston back to its initial position. This part has a ventilation/exhaust hole so that no excess or low pressure is generated through the piston movement in the second cylinder chamber.
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The double-acting cylinder requires compressed air for every direction of movement. On this type of cylinder, the force in both the advancing and retracting direction is built up using compressed air. The simplest way of actuating a double-acting cylinder is by using a 5/2-way valve.
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Rodless cylinders are pneumatic drives and – as the name suggests – do not have a piston rod. Although they don't have a piston rod, they execute linear movements, which is why they are also known as linear drives. Rodless cylinders are used wherever a short installation length is advantageous and where the force has to be absorbed as consistently as possible. They also allow much longer travel distances with strokes of up to 8.5 m, which is not feasible for a standard cylinder with piston rod.
Rodless cylinders belong to the group of pneumatic cylinders that are operated using compressed air. They are used in a wide variety of pneumatic applications, such as in conveying, drive or handling technology. A characteristic feature of mechanically coupled cylinders is that power is transmitted via a lateral connection on the piston. This requires them to have a slot in the profile barrel. In the case of magnetically coupled cylinders, the force is transmitted through a closed profile barrel and a magnetic field. The installation length required in both variants is significantly less than with comparable piston rod cylinders.
The major advantages of cylinders without piston rods are longer travel strokes and a shorter design, which is why they can be used very flexibly. Rodless cylinders are therefore the first choice when space is limited. Thanks to available mounting slots on various sides of the mechanically coupled rodless cylinders, modular components, such as brakes or sensors, can be installed directly on the cylinders themselves. In addition to being very flexible to install, an inner and an outer sealing strip guarantee good sealing properties. This allows for long strokes, without restrictions.
Festo piston rod cylinders are pneumatic drives for executing linear movements. They are available as round cylinders, profile cylinders, compact cylinders, short-stroke cylinders, flat cylinders, miniature cylinders, screw-in or stainless-steel cylinders; and, depending on the piston diameter, they can provide thrust forces of up to 50 kN at 6 bar. Selected types in accordance with the ATEX directive are also suitable for explosive atmospheres or are made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and therefore particularly easy to clean.
You can find more products in our category: Pneumatic cylinders
Thanks to their round design, round cylinders can even be installed in tight spaces. What all round cylinders have in common is excellent operational performance, a long service life, and quick and easy installation. The piston rod cylinders are available both as double-acting and single-acting actuators, as well as pneumatic cylinders according to standard ISO 6432.
Profile cylinders and tie rod cylinders have identical mounting interfaces and the same technical data, and both have dimensions that conform to the ISO 15552 standard. However, these linear drives differ above all in how the cylinder sensors are mounted: they are securely inserted in the slot on the profile tube, while on cylinders with tie rods the cylinder sensors are attached to a tie rod using a separate mounting kit.
Compact cylinders are pneumatic cylinders with an installation length that is extremely compact in relation to the stroke length. They are typically used when space is extremely limited and the requirements for lateral loads are low. The compact cylinders belong to the group of directly mounted cylinders and are usually installed without any specific mounting accessories. Short-stroke cylinders start from a stroke of 2.5 mm and flat cylinders are characterised – as the name suggests – by a particularly flat design with an oval piston that is protected against rotation.
Compact pneumatic cylinders, short-stroke and flat cylinders
Multimount cylinders are cylinders that can be mounted from one or more sides without additional mounting attachments (except for screws). Cartridge cylinders can be installed directly in the system using a threaded hole and can be operated as single-acting. There is no need for separate accessories to mount these piston rod cylinders and to connect the air supply. This creates an extremely space-saving layout.
These are piston rod cylinders with an additional clamping unit for clamping the piston rod. The frictional clamping mechanism is activated when the operating pressure falls below a minimum value and, depending on the type, can be with or without backlash. Cylinders with a clamping mechanism are used for static holding. A holding brake with a relevant test certificate is required for dynamic braking and for use in safety-related control systems.
Stainless-steel cylinders are characterised by their corrosion resistance, even in aggressive environments. This is in particular thanks to the use of high-quality stainless steels 1.4301 and 1.4401. The high-alloy types of stainless steel that have been proven in practice provide protection against chemical stress and damage that may be caused by cleaning agents and disinfectants.
A piston rod cylinder always has a piston rod with a drive piston, the movement of which is controlled by compressed air. The energy applied to the piston is then transferred by the piston rod to the parts to be moved. Cylinders with piston rod are available as double-acting and single-acting piston rod cylinders.
Single-acting cylinders with piston rod only have one supply port. The cylinder is supplied with compressed air via the port, causing the piston to move in one direction. When the cylinder releases the air again, the piston is returned to its initial position by a spring.
Double-acting cylinders, on the other hand, have two supply ports and are only actuated using compressed air. As compressed air is supplied to either port, it causes the cylinder to extend and retract.
Pneumatic rotary drives from Festo enable rotary movements with a swivel angle of up to 270°. Both rotary vane drives and rack-and pinion drives typically achieve maximum precision while also offering excellent performance and great versatility. As a result, our pneumatic drives are used in factory automation across a wide range of industries.
You can find more products in our category: Pneumatic cylinders
The impressive features of our compact rotary drives include installation in tight spaces, high permissible mass moments of inertia and the sensing option. Selected types are also available in a modular design with additional functions or are suitable for potentially explosive atmospheres in accordance with the ATEX directive.
Festo rotary vane cylinders are compact and affordable drives available in two series: the DRVS series consists of rotary drives that are optimised for swivelling and are especially lightweight and compact. The swivel angle is either fixed or can be adjusted with the help of optional accessories. The DSM series offers lots of optional functions, including especially powerful hydraulic cushioning for high energy. The swivel angles of the DSM rotary drives are infinitely adjustable over the entire swivel range and deliver high precision thanks to fixed metal stops.
Our rotary drives which operate on the rack-and-pinion principle boast very high accuracy in the end positions, maximum load capacity of the bearing, very good axial run-out at the output shaft and high mass moments of inertia thanks to powerful cushioning. The DRRD series offers lots of optional functions that simplify use in handling and assembly technology: centre positioning module, energy through-feed, etc. With variable mounting options, the twin-piston drives are perfect in combination with other Festo drives and grippers.
The Festo swivel/linear units DSL are a combination of a compact rotary drive with vane technology and a linear cylinder. They offer high repetition accuracy thanks to cushioning components with fixed stops. The swivel angles can be infinitely and accurately set. A simple plain-bearing guide or precise recirculating ball bearing guide makes swivelling up to 270° and linear strokes up to 200 mm possible.
Clamping cylinders hold or clamp a workpiece either directly using a pneumatically operated clamping element or using kinematics. The clamping element is swivelled out of the working area when it is inactive. They can realise very high holding forces with low energy input thanks to kinematics. At Festo, we differentiate between clamping modules, linear/swivel clamps and hinge cylinders.
Clamping modules are extremely flat diaphragm actuators with short strokes that can be used for a wide range of clamping tasks. Thanks to their flat design, the clamping modules can be used in many situations where other clamping cylinders reach their limits, such as in narrow spaces. And a clamping force of up to 1640 N can be achieved. There are round and elongated designs with which both flat as well as more linear clamping tasks can be implemented. The hermetically sealed design of the clamping modules also makes them suitable for harsh, dusty ambient conditions.
In our current range you will find clamping module EV – a short rodless cylinder with diaphragm. The EV is single-acting, has a reset function and is hermetically sealed.
With linear/swivel clamps, linear and swivel movements can be combined. This means that tools can be inserted and removed even beyond the clamping range. There are clamping tools for a number of applications; they reliably clamp all kinds of workpieces, from wood to sheet metal and even printed circuit boards. Linear/swivel clamps generate clamping forces of up to 1,600 N and clamping strokes of up to 50 mm. They can also be used in welding applications.
Festo currently has linear/swivel clamp CLR, which combines swivelling and clamping in a single work step. The swivel direction is adjustable, so the CLR can be adapted to individual conditions. The CLR is also available with a clamping finger as an accessory as well as with dust and welding spatter protection.
Hinge cylinders are special clamping cylinders that are characterised by a rod clevis at the end of the piston rod and a hinged fork at the bearing cap. This simplifies mounting in clamping devices. An option with clamping unit can also prevent the piston rod from slipping in unpressurised conditions. Hinge cylinders generate clamping forces of up to 3016 N and are particularly suitable for clamping components in welding processes. They clamp and hold components extremely securely and reliably.
The Festo hinge cylinder DW with integrated restrictors and end-position cushioning is ideal for clamping components in welding processes. The hinged fork on the bearing cap makes the DW very easy to mount. In the Asian region, the DW is the automotive standard for body-in-white production.
Servo-pneumatic positioning systems consist of the following components: a cylinder with displacement encoder, a proportional directional control valveand a position controller. Servo-pneumatic positioning systems are used to either move a pneumatic cylinder to a preset target position in a position-controlled manner or generate a preset target force in a force-controlled manner. Festo is the global market leader for servo-pneumatic systems and offers suitable solutions for your requirements.
In servo-pneumatics, air is used as the compressible drive medium, which is why servo-pneumatic positioning systems are considered particularly "soft". This is because once the drive is in a controlled position, it can be moved or pushed away by a correspondingly large external force. In terms of price, servo-pneumatic positioning systems are especially attractive when loads of more than 10 kg are to be moved.
Displacement encoders are an important part of servo-pneumatic positioning systems, because they provide an actual value for the current position. The cylinder diameters of Festo displacement encoders vary from 18 to 100 mm, while the stroke lengths range from 100 to 2,000 mm. Festo displacement encoders are available as either rotary or linear variants. Displacement encoders
Proportional directional control valves are used in servo-pneumatic positioning systems as a final control element that regulates the speed with the help of built-in pressure sensors. Festo offers three different proportional directional control valves that can be actuated directly, digitally or by analogue means.
There are two Festo position controllers, also known as axis controllers, that are suitable for servo-pneumatic positioning systems. Drives controlled by the fast-acting soft-stop CPX-CMPX move into the end position smoothly and without impact. The CPX-CMAX was designed for the simple servo-pneumatic control of various pneumatic linear or rotary drive series.
Festo offers both rotary and linear drives with a displacement encoder. The displacement encoder is part of the controlled systems – it supplies the actual value with the current position. Potentiometers or contactless displacement encoders are used. The displacement encoders are integrated in many pneumatic drives. Alternatively, they can also be attached to the drive. The cylinder diameters vary from 18 to 100 mm, the stroke lengths from 100 to 2,000 mm.
Electric drives are an important component in factory automation. They are often used in applications that require high flexibility and precise positioning. Electric drive technology is therefore especially suitable for free, flexible and precise positioning as well as for travel distances that are longer than 1,000 mm, with high speeds and short cycle times. Electric drives also consume less energy during movement than pneumatic drives, for example, and operate jerk-free.
You can find more products in our category: Drives and actuators
Each application requires different mechanical motion, either linear or rotary. Our portfolio of electric drive components is extremely broad. In addition to electric axes, cylinders and slides, you will also find electric rotary drives, electric stoppers, electric handling modules and matching accessories.
Electric axes from Festo, whether spindle axis, toothed belt axis or cantilever axis, impress with their high load capacity and rigidity. In addition, we offer toothed belt and spindle axis units as complete solutions, consisting of integrated drive, motor and servo drive.
For our electric cylinders and slides, you can choose between ball screw and lead screw as the drive type. With strokes from 5 to 500 mm and sizes between 15 and 100, we offer the necessary flexibility for different applications. Here, too, you will find electric cylinder and slide units as complete solutions.
We offer electric semi-rotary drives as a rotary module with toothed belt, a rotary drive with stepper motor and integrated gear unit as well as a rotary drive unit as a complete solution with integrated drive, motor and servo drive. The range also includes a front unit with integrated rotary drive.
Electric stoppers are used in automation technology for stopping or separating workpiece carriers or pallets that are being transported. They ensure stopping processes are gentle, quiet and safe, while also being quick and easy to install on transfer systems without compressed air. You can connect the electric stopper for conveyed goods weighing between 0.25 and 100 kg directly to the PLC, without an additional motor controller. The power supply, communication and logic processing functions are all integrated in the device itself.
As part of our electric drive range for factory automation, we also offer electric handling technology. The complete rotary/linear handling unit combines rotary and linear movements, whereby both movements can be positioned independently of each other. The rotary gripper module is ideal for gripping and rotating/aligning small objects in laboratory automation or the electronics industry.
Of course, we also offer matching accessories for our drives. These range from attachments for motor mounting, attachments for position detection and attachments for protective devices to fastening components, linear guides, accessories for cushioning and drive-specific accessories.
Festo guided cylinders – drives with guide rods and pneumatic slides – are pneumatic drives and are one of the "workhorses" of industrial automation. They are used in a wide range of applications such as lifting, pressing, pulling, separating and much more. Both types of guided cylinders combine the benefits of linear movement with those of guided motion and stand out thanks to their extremely high stability.
You can find more products in our category: Pneumatic cylinders
When it comes to guided cylinders, we offer two product categories: slide drives (pneumatic slides) and drives with guide rods (twin-piston, guided, compact or mini guided cylinders). Slide drives are characterised by high precision and repetition accuracy. Drives with guide rods are attached to a yoke plate, thus protecting them against rotation and making them especially sturdy and resilient.
Festo slide drives are pneumatic slides with an especially compact design. We offer pneumatic slides in a number of sizes with a wide range of mounting and cushioning options in order to guarantee optimal cycle times and minimise the transfer of vibrations to the machine. Slide drives achieve a repetition accuracy of 0.01 mm.
Festo guided cylinders with guide rods are really sturdy, resilient, compact and precise. They are available in a number of sizes and versions, with the selection ranging from conventional guided cylinders to special models, such as for food, high-temperature, cleanroom or ATEX applications. Drives with guide rods can hold virtually any tool, achieve stroke lengths of up to 400 mm and can generate large positioning forces when required.
Guided cylinders with guide rods are available in many applications, either with just one piston or in series with twin pistons. Piston integrity is guaranteed by two guide rods which are attached by the piston to the yoke plate, which holds a tool. The yoke plate prevents the piston from rotating when subjected to transverse forces. This design ensures top-class operational stability.
Guided cylinders with guide rods can be used in a wide range of applications such as lifting, pressing, pulling, pushing, clamping, stopping, holding, cutting, separating and much more.
Pneumatic slides normally consist of one or two piston rods and a guide rail. These are guided in the slide housing via recirculating ball bearing elements or cage guides. This enables them to execute extremely precise movements with high repetition accuracy, even when subjected to transverse loads and torque. Pneumatic slides are mounted horizontally or vertically and always execute linear movements.
Pneumatic slides are therefore ideal for tasks that call for high precision and repeatability. They are an excellent solution for a gantry, such as on a 2D linear gantry with an X and Z axis. They can also be combined in gripping and feeding or piggyback configurations, in many cases without an adapter.
Diaphragm actuators and bellows actuators can be used in a variety of applications as drive or pneumatic spring systems. They form a class of their own in the world of pneumatics thanks to their special properties – a particular benefit is that they have no annoying stick-slip effect. The stick-slip effect is the jerky sliding motion when solid bodies move against each other. This phenomenon occurs when a body, whose static friction is significantly greater than the sliding friction, is moved. This often happens with pneumatic cylinders.
Bellows cylinder are both drive and pneumatic spring systems and fall into the category of diaphragm actuators. When provided with pressurisation and exhaust functions, bellows cylinders can be operated as a drive component. As the stroke increases, the force generated is reduced in relation to the contractional force of the bellows. When bellows cylinders are supplied with permanent pressure, they act as a cushioning component. The simple design consists of two metal connecting plates with a rubber bellows attached to them. There are no sealing components and no moving mechanical parts. Bellows cylinders are single-acting drives that do not require a spring return, as they are reset by the application of external force.
A major advantage of bellows cylinders is the particularly low installation height compared to conventional cylinders as well as their ease of movement. This means that larger axis offsets and angular rotations of up to 20° are also possible. And the bellow cylinders are not prone to the stick-slip effect, which is often a problem with conventional cylinders. Double bellows can be used for large strokes. They can be used with different media, such as compressed air, gas and liquids, as long as the properties of the rubber are taken into account.
Pneumatic muscles are diaphragm actuators, or more precisely diaphragm-contraction actuators, also known as pull actuators. They were developed according to the model of a biological muscle and consist of contractible tubing and appropriate connectors. The contractible tubing is made up of a rubber sheath with a non-crimped fabric made of aramid fibres on the inside. The diaphragm hermetically seals the operating medium. The fibres provide reinforcement and transmit power. When internal pressure is applied, the diaphragm extends in circumferential direction. This creates a tensile force and contracts the tubing lengthwise. The maximum usable tensile force is available at the start of the contraction and then decreases with the stroke. The advantages: The diaphragm actuator has an outstanding force-to-weight ratio and is powerful in operation. It is also free of stick-slip effects and its initial force is 10 times higher than comparable pneumatic cylinders.
Pneumatic cylinders are used for drive tasks. But drive tasks cannot always be carried out using a standard cylinder. Especially for complex drive tasks with demanding, individual requirements, special pneumatic cylinders are often needed.
With a selection of products from Festo such as tandem cylinders, high-force cylinders or multi-position cylinders, you will always find the right product for every drive task.
A standard pneumatic cylinder consists of many components (e.g. piston, piston rod, cylinder barrel) that are designed and produced right from the start for a wide range of applications and possible uses. Pneumatic cylinders can, for example, be double-acting or single-acting or can also have different types of end-position cushioning.
But why do you need different designs of pneumatic cylinders? Special pneumatic cylinders are used when the requirements for the shape or size of a cylinder for a drive are very special. It is therefore the shape or size of a special cylinder that usually differs from that of a standard cylinder. A few deviations are enough to turn a standard pneumatic cylinder into a special pneumatic cylinder.
Pneumatic multi-position drives are available with two different functional principles. According to the first principle, pneumatic multi-position drives consist of two separate cylinders that are connected using a kit and have piston rods that extend in opposite directions. This means that, depending on the actuation and stroke configuration, this type of cylinder can assume up to four positions. According to the second principle, multi-position cylinders consist of two to five cylinders connected in series with different stroke lengths. With this cylinder type, only one piston rod is visible, which moves to different positions in one direction.
A high-force cylinder is a cylinder design that is characterised by pneumatic compact cylinders connected in series. By connecting a maximum of four pistons in series, the force of the cylinder is increased accordingly. The resulting force is transferred to the external piston rods, where it is ready to be used. The resulting force is applied over the entire stroke, up to a maximum of 5 mm before the end position is reached. The cylinder of the first stage is always used for position sensing, because it performs the visible stroke.
These are two identical profile barrel cylinders type DNC connected in series to double the thrust force in both directions of movement. By using cylinders type DNC, the mounting interfaces comply with standard ISO 15552. This means that the mounting accessories from the range of piston rod cylinders DSBx and DNC can be used as well as piston rod accessories. Both profile cylinders of the tandem have magnetic pistons and can be sensed using cylinder sensors. The proximity switches can be easily and securely mounted in one of the sensor slots without any additional accessories. The energy can be reliably absorbed by the adjustable pneumatic cushioning. The DNCT is available with a freely selectable stroke length of max. 500 mm either in a normal version or a heat-resistant version for a maximum ambient temperature of up to 120 °C. Other variants are available on request.
The MS series offers the largest range of compressed air filters to create a wide variety of compressed air purity classes. It is ideal for every application. Coarse filters, fine filters and micro filters according to the coalescence filter principle are available, as well as oil vapour separators based on activated carbon filters.
The filter systems of the MS series can be integrated as modules thanks to the simple modular system of the MS series.
Four sizes offer a wide flow range and can be combined with all condensate drain systems. The housings are made of die-cast aluminium, the filter bowls are either made of metal or polycarbonate with a bowl guard.
They can optionally also be configured for use in the potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
Pressure regulators are used in pneumatic applications to set and keep the pressure level of a machine constant. In many applications, the pressure of compressors, which supply compressed air in the range of 10...16 bar, is too high, so it has to be reduced with the help of pressure regulators. Excessive pressure leads to higher wear of the application or unnecessarily high energy costs, while with insufficient pressure the required speed or force performance is not reached. This results in fluctuations in quality and faulty results.
The incoming compressed air that flows from the input of the pressure regulator to the valve seat is the primary pressure or input pressure. The pressure regulator ensures that the compressed air, as it flows through the valve, is at the required secondary pressure, also called output pressure. This is regulated in line with the specific requirements by adjusting the rotary knob. When the rotary knob is turned, this moves a spring that exerts a force on the upper side of the regulating diaphragm, which in turn pushes up or down. The valve tappet is actuated and the valve bore opens. When the secondary pressure drops, the spring force on the diaphragm is greater than the counteracting output pressure. This pushes the valve tappet further down, which increases the valve opening and causes the output pressure to rise again.
Our new MS-B series features the second-generation pressure regulator MS-LR-B, which is our attractively priced, technical polymer series. It has a grid dimension of 25, 40 or 62 mm and is easy to operate thanks to the modern polymer materials. The air pressure is regulated and locked by a rotary knob, while integrated primary and secondary exhausting with reverse flow behaviour ensures stable control behaviour. Pressure regulator MS-LR-B is available with pressure gauge or G1/8 adapter ("A8").
Our "one MS worldwide" offers a wide range of pressure regulators. From an integrated return flow function and secondary exhausting as standard to high flow rate performance and very good control characteristics, the MS series offers the right product for every application. It is available in four sizes, with mechanical pressure gauge or alternatively with pressure sensor with and without display. In addition, all pressure regulators in the MS series can be installed in service unit combinations thanks to the simple modular system of the MS series. The pressure regulators can also be configured for use in potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
The D series includes the pressure regulator LR-DB with the following pressure range: 7 bar output pressure and 10 bar input pressure. Another characteristic is the high flow rate performance with good pressure stability. It is available in one size with a flow rate of up to approx. 1,300 l/min.
Irrespective of the series, you can also obtain individual devices from us that are suitable for more sensitive applications. For example, precision pressure regulators LRP and LRPS are the ideal choice when a pressure hysteresis of 0.02 bar is required. Both regulators enable the pressure to be precisely adjusted both in static and dynamic applications. Operating pressure fluctuations are compensated for. They are available in sizes 40 mm with a ⅛" connecting thread and 300 l/min standard nominal flow rate as well as 50 mm with a ¼" connecting thread and 2,300 l/min standard nominal flow rate.
Electrically actuated pressure regulator PREL with a pressure regulation range of up to 40 bar is ideally suited for high-pressure applications. The output pressure of electric pressure regulator PREL is detected by proportional-pressure regulator VPPL using an integrated pressure sensor and compared internally with the setpoint. In case of deviations, the VPPL controls the regulator of the PREL until the output pressure reaches the setpoint value. A soft-start function is integrated as standard in the PREL. In addition, there are pressure gauge connections on the front and back of the pressure regulator.
The MS series provides the widest range of compressed air regulators. They are ideal for every application and offer a high flow rate performance with very good control characteristics and a low hysteresis. A return flow function and secondary exhaust are integrated as standard in the MS series. It is available in four sizes and can be selected with a mechanical pressure gauge, or with a pressure sensor with and without a display for monitoring via the system control.
The regulators of the MS series can be integrated as modules in service units thanks to the simple modular system of the MS series.
The block-mountable product versions with compressed air supply through-feed enable independent pressure ranges to be controlled simultaneously.
They can also be configured for use in potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
The MS series offers numerous variants of branching or compressed air distributor modules, ideal for every application.
They can be configured on request with an integrated check valve, a pressure sensor with and without display as well as a mechanical pressure switch ready for installation. They are now also available in a narrow version with half the width for tight installation spaces.
The compressed air distributors of the MS series can be integrated as modules in service units thanks to the simple modular system of the MS series.
They can optionally also be configured for use in potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
The MS series has the most comprehensive range of manually, pneumatically and electrically actuated on/off valves and soft start valves in four sizes. The valves of the MS series are characterised by a high flow rate performance, integratable sensors and certified safety valves for safe exhausting of pneumatic systems. They are ideal for every application.
The pneumatically and electrically actuated valves can be configured with and without an integrated soft-start function. There are also pneumatically and electrically actuated soft-start valves as individual devices.
Thanks to the modular system of the MS series, these valves are easy to install in service units.
Depending on the configuration, they are also suitable for use in the potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
Regulating and filtering compressed air: filter regulators combine a compressed air filter and pressure regulator in one device, and thus perform two functions at the same time. The filter removes contamination from the compressed air, and the pressure regulator controls the working pressure depending on the application. This makes them an indispensable element in compressed air preparation, ensuring high process reliability, fewer machine failures and less downtime.
In our portfolio, we offer filter regulators for every requirement, from single devices for explosive environments to modular series that can be integrated in the modular service unit system.
The filter regulators of the MS-B series with polymer housing are extremely light, very compact and yet have a high flow rate. They offer low-cost, basic components focused on the most important technical functions. The polymer variant is compatible with the MS series for the perfect combination of low-cost basic functionality with high-end functional requirements.
The MS series offers a very wide range of filter regulator units, so there is always the right one for every application. The filter unit ensures the best particle separation at high flow rates. The pressure regulator has good control characteristics with a low hysteresis. A return flow function and secondary exhaust are integrated as standard in the MS series. The filter regulator can be easily installed in the relevant MS service units. Four sizes provide a wide flow range. The filter regulators MS-LFR can optionally be configured for use in potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
The D series with polymer housing offers a basic range in one size. The housings are made of reinforced polyamide with thread and the filter bowls are made of polycarbonate; they can be combined with a manual or semi-automatic condensate drain. One of the characteristics of the devices is that they are extremely lightweight.
In addition to our filter regulator range, we also offer individual units made of stainless steel for explosive environments. With its sturdy housing, the filter regulator PCRP is ideally suited for the special requirements of process automation, even for use outdoors and at low temperatures down to -60 °C. The filter regulator PCRI is particularly resistant to UV radiation and corrosive environments.
A lubricator is a device located downstream of the air compressor. It usually consists of a small reservoir with a supply of lubricating oil and a dosing mechanism that dispenses a specific amount of oil into the air stream. The oil reduces the wear of highly stressed pneumatic drives and prevents the formation of rust and moisture. The Festo range not only includes individual accessories such as lubricators, but also complete service unit combinations. Depending on the area of application, they also offer other components for a service unit such as soft-start valves, filter regulators, filters, on/off valves and branching modules.
It is important to use the correct type of oil for your application, as using the wrong oil can lead to problems such as reduced efficiency or even damage to the pneumatic components. It is also important to maintain and properly fill the lubricator, as a lack of lubrication can lead to premature wear and failure of the components.
With the MS service unit combinations from Festo, you can prepare every aspect of your compressed air for different applications. The devices are characterised by a wide range of settings, highly functional components and a wide range of services. This means that they can be used individually for simple standard applications as well as for very application-specific solutions with the highest quality requirements. Thanks to the modular design, it is possible to order predefined combinations, individual components, ready-to-install solutions or freely configurable service unit combinations from stock. Depending on the application, these can be made up of filter control valves, lubricators, sensors, dryers, safety functions, flow sensors, on/off valves, branching modules, compressed air assembly valves and filters. The simple connection system saves time when replacing individual modules, which is quick and easy to do without having to dismantle the entire device. Many of the components in the service unit combinations are also UL and ATEX certified.
The following components are possible in service unit combinations of the MS series:
Find out more about the above components and many others for your individual compressed air service unit at Festo. Oil and maintain your pneumatic tools in factory automation with various accessories from Festo. Festo offers the right lubricator and the right technical service unit for every function, every tool, every connection, every pressure regulator and every manufacturer.
There are many different applications where a lubricator can be used in a pneumatic system. Here are some examples:
A soft-start valve is used to regulate the pressure in a pneumatic system. The pressure is slowly built up to a specific level, so that the system is pressurised appropriately. As soon as the set pressure level is reached, the valve switches to 100%. The valve also exhausts the system to prevent it from being damaged. Soft-start valves are used in a wide range of pneumatic systems, such as in factory automation or in the automotive and aerospace industries.
An on/off valve is used to control the air flow in a pneumatic system. It can be used to start or stop the air flow and regulate it to a certain degree. On/off valves are commonly used in pneumatic systems to control the movement of pneumatic components.
Both types of valves are important in pneumatic systems as they help to ensure the system functions correctly and prevent damage to the system and its components.
The MS series has a comprehensive range of manually, pneumatically as well as electrically actuated on/off valves and soft-start valves in four sizes. The valves of the MS series are characterised by a high flow rate performance, easy-to-integrate sensors and certified safety valves for safely exhausting pneumatic systems. They are ideal for every application.
The pneumatically and electrically actuated valves of the MS series can be configured with and without an integrated soft-start function. They are also available as individual devices and
are easy to install in service units of the MS series thanks to the modular system.
Depending on the configuration, they are also suitable for use in the potentially explosive areas of zones 1, 2, 21 and 22 as well as with UL approval.
The D series with polymer housing has a manual spool valve for specific pressurisation and exhausting. It is available as an individual device, but can also be combined with filter regulators of the D series in polymer.
Devices of the PVEL series can be operated pneumatically and manually and are available as pressurisation and exhaust valves for pressure ranges up to 50 bar. In addition, with the HE-LO series, Festo provides shut-off valves in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 147 "Control of Hazardous Energy" of the US Department of Labor.
Soft-start valves can be used in many possible compressed air preparation applications in pneumatic systems. Here are a few examples of where valves from our various series are needed:
Valves can be actuated manually, pneumatically and electrically. Manually operated valves are usually opened and closed mechanically using levers or handwheels. Valves that are actuated pneumatically are controlled using compressed air. Electrically actuated valves, on the other hand, are actuated using solenoid valves. The type of actuation depends on the specific requirements for the application and should be chosen depending on the requirements for speed, precision and safety of the control system.
With correct compressed air preparation using Festo service units, you can increase the service life of your components, avoid downtime and machine failure and significantly improve your process and product reliability. Our compressed air service units precisely meet the requirements of your production, from standard applications to application-specific solutions that place extremely high demands on purity, pressure and flow rate. Thanks to integrated monitoring functions, you will always be informed about the condition of the compressed air filters and can control maintenance as required. Pressure, flow rate and consumption are therefore always how they should be.
Our "one MS worldwide" offers service units for every requirement, from simple standard solutions to application-specific ones for when the demands on compressed air quality are very high. The MS-B is ideally suited for standard applications. If there are special requirements for compressed air purity, including the high-end area, the MS series with its modular design is the answer.
Depending on the application, a service unit consists of a pressure regulator, various filters, a branching module and pressurisation and exhaust valves. The service unit ensures the right compressed air quality and filters out compressor oil, condensate and dirt particles from the air. These are based on decades of expertise and a clear understanding of the needs of tomorrow.
Find the best service unit for your application. With our engineering tool, you can assemble the right service unit combination for your application. The tool uses typical application parameters to produce a recommendation for the air quality class and components. Alternatively, you can specify a compressed air purity class or assemble a filter cascade directly. If you wish to add any of our most popular service modules, the tool will recommend the right layout and size of the units in accordance with the required flow rate. The service unit component is pre-configured – oversizing is a thing of the past!
The size of the service unit components depends on the system's air consumption. Undersizing leads to pressure fluctuations and to reduced filter service life. For cost reasons, high quality compressed air should only be used where it is absolutely necessary. Branching modules between the individual filter stages allow the user to tap off compressed air of various qualities.
Cartesian robots from Festo are ready-to-install industrial robots for multidimensional movements that are based on Festo linear and sliding drives or parallel kinematics. Matching stepper and servo motors, servo drives and an integrated energy supply concept provide a reliable, ready-to-install solution. Supported by innovative software solutions for engineering and configuration, the handling systems can be designed online and put into operation efficiently in just a few minutes based on your application data.
You can find more products in our category: handling systems and industrial robots
At Festo, you will find the right solution for every application, from extremely small and sturdy to highly dynamic handling systems. In addition to single-axis systems, linear, planar surface and three-dimensional gantries enable free positioning within a linear area up to a three-dimensional space. Our portfolio of Cartesian robots is complemented by new 3D cantilever systems with freely accessible workspace.
Our single-axis robots perform any single-axis movement in a horizontal installation position and are ideal for long gantry strokes and large loads. They are characterised by their high mechanical rigidity and sturdy design. The ready-to-install single-axis solution includes the energy chain for routing the cables or tubing as well as the matching motor and servo drive package.
For movements in a 2D vertical workspace: a linear gantry is a combination of a horizontal linear axis and any vertical axis to form a ready-to-install complete system including an energy chain and a suitable motor and servo drive package. It is also possible to combine pneumatic and electric axes, as well as serial or parallel kinematic designs. Our parallel kinematic 2D linear gantries offer an optimal dynamic response compared to conventional Cartesian gantry solutions.
For movements in 2D in a horizontal workspace: a planar surface gantry is the combination of up to three linear axes into a complete ready-to-install system, including energy chain and suitable motor and servo drive packages. Both serial kinematic and parallel kinematic designs can be used. Planar surface gantries can be used generally for light to very heavy workpieces or high payloads and are particularly suitable for very long strokes.
For movements in a 3D workspace: a three-dimensional gantry is a combination of up to three horizontal linear axes and a vertical axis to form a ready-to-install complete system including an energy chain and a suitable motor and servo drive package. It is also possible to combine pneumatic and electric axes as well as serial or parallel kinematic designs. Ideal for use with demanding requirements and/or heavy payloads, with long strokes at the same time.
The cantilever system facilitates movement in 3D space. Depending on the requirements, the cantilever system consists of several axis modules with tried-and-tested components from Festo. The system can generally be used for light to medium-weight workpieces or payloads. It offers an optimum ratio of installation space to working space and the axial or parallel motor connection can be freely selected for the best use of the installation space. It is ideal for use in linear assembly processes or desktop applications.
Definition Cartesian robots, also called linear robots or gantry robots, are industrial robots that consist of up to three linear axes and use the Cartesian coordinate system (X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis). This means they move in straight lines on three axes, up and down, inwards and outwards and from side to side. Cartesian robots are a popular choice because they are extremely flexible to configure and allow the user to customise the speed, precision, stroke length and size of the robot. Cartesian robots are one of the most commonly used robot types for industrial applications.
Why is it worthwhile to use Cartesian robots? The answer is simple: Cartesian robots from Festo offer many benefits. They are always exactly right for the task and are never oversized. In addition, the use of electric and pneumatic technologies or a mix of the two also makes them very flexible and offers excellent value for money. Moreover, the high-speed variants and compact systems offer great flexibility in terms of load, dynamic response, working space and mechanics. The space-optimised systems with freely scalable strokes are designed specifically for the application. They require less space for movement and lend themselves more easily to customised and modular adaptation to application conditions. This enables maximum working space coverage. Their mechanical design makes the systems easy to program; for example, only one axis needs to be activated for vertical movements. Functions such as switching off the energy in the normal position also make the handling systems very energy efficient. Last but not least, Cartesian robots from Festo are very straightforward to maintain and service.
Delta robots are parallel-arm robots with parallel kinematic systems. They usually have three delta-shaped arms that are linked to the base by universal joints. Thanks to their light weight and fast operation, they are often a popular choice in industry for packaging goods, for assembly as well as in high-speed applications. The industrial robots are also frequently used for pick-and-place tasks, as they can grip and place objects without errors or jerks. A large variety of sectors benefit from this.
The main components of delta robots are multiple axes and/or motors that interact to form a closed kinematic chain. The base of the robot is usually mounted on the ceiling, with the three or more arms going down in a pyramid shape. The ends of these arms are connected to a platform that is moved by the arms. The simultaneous synchronisation of all motors enables the front unit to move in the X, Y and Z directions. This distinguishes it, for example, from articulated robots, whose operating mode is based on serial kinematics.
Delta robots are extremely fast, dynamic and offer high repeat accuracy. The parallel kinematic drive concept with fixed motors that are connected via a pyramid-shaped mechanical structure means that little mass has to be moved, which in turn ensures high speed and flexibility.
The disadvantage of delta robots is that their working range as well as payload are both relatively limited.
Our delta robot Tripod EXPT stands out just as much for its precise movements and positioning as for its extraordinarily high dynamic response with up to 150 picks per minute. The highly rigid and virtually vibration-free design as well as the low moving mass of this robot, which is based on parallel kinematics, is up to three times faster than comparable Cartesian systems. In addition to an emergency stop function, rod loss detection and missing part detection, the Tripod EXPT allows numerous grippers to be mounted, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Cylinder sensors are sensors that detect the magnetic field of the piston magnet via a magnetic field or reed contact. They are used to provide binary feedback on the piston position for pneumatic drives. Proximity sensors are mounted in the required switching position in the cylinder slot and output a standardised 24 V switching signal when the magnetic field of the piston is detected.
You can find further products in our category: Sensors , Pneumatic cylinders
Festo cylinder sensors are tailor-made and optimised for Festo drives. They detect the magnetic field of permanent magnets installed on the cylinder piston and therefore indirectly indicate the position of the piston rod. The range includes cylinder sensors for standard applications and solutions for special applications.
Cylinder sensors for T-slots are available as electronic versions and with reed contacts. In addition to standard solutions, the range of sensors also includes variants for almost all industry segments, such as resistance to welding fields, 230 V, high temperature 120°C, low temperature –40°C, food-safe, acid proof, coolant resistant, outdoor applications, ATEX, 5 V supply voltage.
Cylinder sensors for C-slots are available as electronic versions and with reed contacts. Electronic sensors for the preferred solution for all factory automation applications, especially those involving fast cycle times. The most universal series is SMT-10M.
Cylinder sensors are sensors that detect the magnetic field of the piston magnet via a magnetic field or reed contact. They are mounted in the required switching position in the cylinder’s T-slot or C-slot and output a standardised 24 V switching signal when the magnetic field of the piston is detected.
A pneumatic cylinder is a component of a pneumatic drive system and generates movement using compressed air as the medium. Cylinder sensors are used to provide binary feedback indicating the piston position for pneumatic drives.
Cylinder sensors from Festo come in a huge range of variants and can be used for practically everything, regardless of what the environment or task demands. Our range even includes suitable mounting accessories. For example:
Position sensors essentially are composed of three different products: the sensors themselves, position transmitters that can be used virtually anywhere and displacement encoders. All these products check and monitor automated motion sequences and are therefore indispensable in industrial application processes.
Complex or programmable solutions are also available as position sensors, and can only be used for the drives for which they have been optimised. This also applies to the Festo position sensor SRBS, which is used to detect a rotary movement of the shaft on the rotary drives DRVS and DSM. Features of the SRBS are:
Also in our product portfolio is the position sensor SMH for our grippers HGD / HGPP / HGR and HGW. The sensor must be connected to an evaluation unit and is based on the magnetic Hall measuring principle. Depending on the gripper position, an analogue electrical signal is generated in the position sensor. The conversion to 2 digital output signals (corresponding to 2 gripper jaw positions) is performed using signal converters SVE4.
Position transmitters are used very generally to provide analogue feedback on the piston movement in a specific sensing range in applications such as ultrasonic welding, pressing in, screwing, clamping, detecting good/reject parts etc. They are able to detect the magnetic field of the piston magnet within the sensing range and evaluate it with high repeat position accuracy. The information is provided as a standardised 0–10 V, 4–20 mA analogue signal or via IO-Link®. In addition, the devices offer programming options for the preliminary evaluation of the signal information directly in the transmitter.
At Festo you will find four different position transmitters, all of which are based on the magnetic Hall measuring principle, but differ in size and therefore in their sensing range. The SDAS-MHS and SMAT-8M are small position transmitters and therefore the ideal solution for compact cylinders and grippers. The SDAS-MHS also offers the option of programming two switching points directly on the unit. This means it is not necessary to install a second cylinder sensor on small drives. The SDAT-MHS is the universal solution with sensing ranges of up to 160 mm, 0...10 V, 4...20 mA, IO-Link® and a programmable switching output. Our position transmitters deliver accurate results, fit nicely into pneumatic machines and applications and are extremely reliable.
Displacement encoders measure the distance between an object and a selected reference point, but are also used for positioning tasks. Our portfolio contains numerous products for a wide range of requirements.
We offer the displacement measuring system MME-MTS-TLF, which is based on a magnetostrictive measuring principle; it operates without any contact and measures absolute values. It is a conductive plastic potentiometer that enables a high travel speed to be achieved. The MME-MTS-TLF is mainly used in servo-pneumatic positioning technology and for soft stops.
Another displacement encoder is the MLO-POT-LWG – an absolute measuring push rod potentiometer with high resolution. It has plug-in connections and is suitable for strokes of 100 ... 750 mm. This product is characterised by its long service life.
The Festo displacement encoder MLO-POT-TLF offers high travel speeds and a long service life. It is an absolute measuring conductive plastic potentiometer with high resolution and plug-in connections that can be used for a stroke range of 225 ... 2000 mm.
In pneumatics, stop valves allow the controlled opening and closing of piping and thus of the compressed air supply. In addition to check valves and quick exhaust valves, Festo also offers shut-off valves, ball valves and logic valves for pneumatic applications.
Check valves and quick exhaust valves combine the function of flow control and stop valves in one component. The compressed air can flow freely in one direction, while in the opposite direction the flow rate can be changed by an adjusting element. Check valves and quick exhaust valves are often used with pneumatic cylinders to regulate speed. A stop valve that has been very successful in pneumatics and is therefore part of our Core Range is the HGL with a piloted non-return function. The HGL has an external thread so it can be screwed in, it is pneumatically piloted and is compatible with M5, G1/8...G1/2 connections as well as fittings QS-4...QS-12. The stop valves H, HA and HB with non-return function can be used for a wide range of applications thanks to the connecting threads and plug-in connection on both sides. The piloted check valve VBNF has a low overall height, can be rotated 360° horizontally when mounted and allows a high flow rate. The valves SE, SEU and VBQF are suitable for quick exhausting. The latter stands out thanks to its low installation height, high flow rate and reduced noise emission.
The manual shut-off function of shut-off valves and ball valves completely blocks the compressed air supply in both directions. Shut-off valves and ball valves are often used in pneumatics for the decentralised shut-off function of the compressed air supply.
The Festo shut-off valve HE and ball valves QH, QH-QS, and QHS-QS are manually operated stop valves. The HE can be connected via a thread or plug and can be mounted in different ways. The ball valve QH is installed directly on the line and has a female thread on both sides. The QH-QS and QHS-QS are installed either directly on the line or using a bulkhead fitting. Our hand slide valve VBOH is used for pressurising and exhausting compressed air systems, e.g. upstream of service unit combinations, with air guns and for exhausting pneumatic cylinders. The VBOH is non-overlapping, so there is no risk of any pressure loss when switching.
Logic valves are used to design simple pneumatic control systems in an uncomplicated way. AND/OR gates are some of the most well-known versions.
Our VK-R-M5 and VLO-R-M5 products are amplifier or NOT modules for use with pneumatic sensors. The Festo logic element ZK is a dual-pressure valve that links two input signals via the AND function. Like the logic element OS used in pneumatic control systems, it is mounted via a through-hole.
Flow regulators are called flow control valves or flow regulators (also called flow-through valve or throttle valve). These valves are used to regulate the flow rate of the medium used. Flow control valves are used in hydraulics and pneumatics to regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid or compressed air.
Flow control valves are divided into:
With a throttle valve, the greater the pressure difference, the greater the volumetric flow rate, since the volumetric flow rate depends on the differential pressure at the throttle point.
In contrast, a flow regulator (volume control valve) operates using pressure compensation. This ensures that the set volumetric flow rate remains unchanged even if the pressure level across the valve changes.
Festo offers a wide range of flow control valves for industrial and process automation. Discover our portfolio of flow control valves: throttle valves, one-way flow control valves and time delay valves.
Throttle valves are part of the category of flow control valves. They restrict the flow of the compressed air in the flow direction. A throttle valve is used to regulate volumetric flow rates. The restrictor creates a narrowing of the line's cross-section – it is a localised flow resistance.
With one-way flow control valves, the flow in one direction is restricted, and is free in the other. One-way flow control valves are used to adjust the speed of pneumatic cylinders, while flow control valves, on the other hand, are used to adjust the flow of air or a fluid.
Time delay valves switch over after a signal has been output and once a preset time has elapsed. They are used in simple pneumatic controllers, in addition to, among others, logic valves.
Flow control valves are used to adjust the speed of a cylinder or the rotational speed of a motor. Both variables depend on the volumetric flow rate, which must be adjusted.
A flow control valve works on the basis of pressure compensation. This means that the set volumetric flow rate remains unchanged even if the pressure level across the valve changes.
A one-way flow control valve ensures that the medium (gas or liquid) only flows in one direction and cannot flow back. One-way flow control valves open automatically as soon as the liquid or gas begins to flow. When the direction of the flow changes, the valve closes.
A directional control valve is used to change, open or block the flow of a medium in a pneumatic system. Compressed air is the fluid that is normally used in pneumatic actuators. The valves differ in terms of the design of their control element, the number of switching positions and flow paths as well as the type of actuation. There are mechanically, pneumatically or electrically operated directional control valves.
Directional control valves are used to block, open or change the flow of a medium. Directional control valves have, for example, a supply port and several exhaust ports as their working outputs. The designation of the valves, for example 3/2- or 5/3-way valve, is based on the number of ports and switching positions.
Directional control valves need to ensure that the compressed air or hydraulic fluid in the valve is:
As an driver of innovation in pneumatics, Festo offers a wide range of proportional valves and directional control valves. This will allow you to implement even the most complex of applications reliably and easily. Discover our portfolio of pneumatically and electrically actuated valves now, from extremely compact valves for tight installation spaces to extremely sturdy ones for harsh environments.
Electric or pneumatic directional control valves can be used to control actuators. Mechanically actuated valves can be actuated using 12, 24, 110 and 230 V. Common variants are, for example, 3/2- or 5/3-way valves. Mechanically operated directional control valves are switched by a button, a lever, a pedal or a spring, for example. Pneumatic valves, on the other hand, are actuated by compressed air.
Standards-based directional control valves from Festo are available with electric or pneumatic actuation.
Solenoid-operated directional control valves from Festo use the force of electromagnets to open and close valves. In this case, the solenoid is used as a control module that "opens" or "closes" the medium within a line (NC/NO). When an electrical current is applied to the solenoid, the valve is actuated and, depending on the control type, operates as either a directly, a servo-controlled or force pilot operated valve.
Universal directional control valves
Proposed products from the Festo Core Range:
The Festo product range of application-specific directional control valves extends from compact solenoid valves to pilot valves, which are used when valve terminals are not technically or economically feasible.
A directional control valve is used to change, open or close the flow of a medium in a hydraulic or pneumatic system. Compressed air or a hydraulic fluid is the fluid that is normally used. The task of a directional control valve is thus to release, change or block cross-sections in the valve for the liquid or gas (fluid).
Directional control valves differ in terms of the number of ports and switching positions. A 3/2-way valve is used to switch a single-acting actuator, for example to switch a media flow and relieve the secondary side when the valve closes.
Festo 3/2-way valves are available in normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) positions.
Festo offers a wide range of electrically and pneumatically actuated directional control valves for industrial automation. Our range includes standards-based valves as well as universal valves and application-specific directional control valves.
In pneumatics, valve terminals refer to a combination of several individual valves. They are combined by a central voltage and compressed air supply, so all valves on a valve terminal are supplied together, both with electrical and pneumatic power. This saves on individual tubing lines and push-in fittings and reduces cabling work. Valve terminals are connected to a programmable logic controller (PLC) by default.
Valve terminals are primarily used in process and factory automation, and have become indispensable in the automotive and electronics industries, as well as in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food and beverage industries. With valve terminals and their integrated electrical inputs and outputs, small control tasks can be handled directly on site, independently of the control system. This makes the valve terminal one of the core elements of pneumatic automation.
By using valve terminals, installation work is kept to a minimum and costs manageable – because only one central pneumatic compressed air supply and one central power supply is needed to control a large number of valves and their functions. The configuration represents another advantage: with valve terminals, the communication and automation of numerous valves are combined in one device. This considerably simplifies the installation of software, as valves can be programmed in a network instead of individually. Festo valve terminals also have extensive diagnostic functions, which keep system availability at the highest level and reduce maintenance intervals.
In addition to standards-based and universal valve terminals, Festo also supplies application-specific valve terminals as well as electrical peripheral devices and accessories.
Our standards-based valve terminals are valve modules in accordance with standards ISO 15407-1, 15407-2 and ISO 5599-2 for standard valves that offer versatile valve functions and are available with plug-in or individual connections.
Universal valve terminals are sturdy and modular valve modules intended primarily for standard tasks.
Application-specific valve terminals, on the other hand, are space-saving and compact and designed for special requirements.
You will find accessories for your valve terminal in the form of valves, sub-bases and manifolds, mounting components, actuator attachments as well as valve module-specific products.
As a driver of innovations in pneumatics with extensive expertise in proportional technology, Festo offers a wide range of proportional valves: proportional-pressure regulators and proportional directional control valves. This will allow you to implement even the most complex of applications easily and reliably. At Festo, you benefit from a huge number of individual solutions and functions that only require minimum effort to mount, parameterise and commission. All proportional valves are generally preset at the factory, while integrated technologies allow you to save time on laborious routine tasks.
You can find more products in our category: valves and valve terminals
You have a choice of various valve series with different working pressures, nominal widths, flow rate ranges and working temperatures, so you can always find the optimal proportional valve for your needs at Festo. We can adapt the valves completely to your individual wishes and special requirements.
Proportional flow control valves control the flow for connected pneumatic consumers. In this section, you will also find proportional directional control valves, piezo valves and valve units as well as proportional flow control valves. Find out about the benefits of each Festo valve.
Proportional flow control valve VEMD is ideal for mass flow control and is characterised by compact installation dimensions. Its truly lightweight design makes it ideal for use in mobile devices for controlling the flow rate. The valve operates precisely and dynamically thanks to the integrated control loop with thermal sensor. It reacts very quickly to a setpoint change and is almost immediately ready for operation.
Short response time, high repeat accuracy, compact size, free of PWIS and certification for ATEX 3GD are all features that make proportional flow control valve VPCF unique. It is perfect for demanding applications, such as controlling inert gas, air flow rates and speed in painting and continuous flow systems; it also meets stringent requirements for dynamic response, repeat accuracy and linearity of the characteristic curve.
The proportional directional control valve MPYE is a 5/3-way proportional valve and has a position-controlled spool. This converts an analogue input signal into a corresponding opening cross-section at the valve outputs. When combined with an external position controller and displacement encoder, this can be used to create a precise pneumatic positioning system.
Compact, powerful and lightweight: the proportional solenoid valve VPWS is a compact 15 mm cartridge valve with a high flow rate. It safely and precisely regulates gas flows, whether oxygen, carbon dioxide, air, nitrous oxide or inert gases.
Based on the technology of the valve MPYE, the VPWP enables the direction of movement to be changed. Thanks to the integrated interface for digitalised data transfer, the integrated pressure sensors and cascade control, this proportional valve is particularly reliable and extremely precise.
When combined with a sensor, the piezo valve VEMP can be used as a control valve. This small and lightweight valve is used for proportional control of pressure or flow rates and is suitable for use in mobile devices such as in medical technology.
The piezo valve VEAE is energy-efficient, lightweight and quiet. It is suitable wherever flow rates of up to 80 l/min need to be controlled precisely and reliably, for instance in stationary or mobile applications in medical technology.
The valve unit VPCB is part of the servo-pneumatic drive solution YHBP for balancers of all kinds. The 3/3-way proportional-pressure regulator with two integrated 2/2-way stop valves is available with or without switching position sensing.
Pressure regulators control the pressure for connected pneumatic consumers. At Festo, you will find a wide range for a large variety of applications.
The pilot-operated pressure regulator with selectable pressure regulation range is optionally available with a setpoint module. The setpoint is entered as an analogue voltage or current signal and the electrical connection is made via a plug.
Proportional valve MPPES is available both as a directly controlled (G1/8) and pilot controlled (G1/4, G1/2) version. The setpoint is entered as an analogue voltage or current signal and the pressure regulation range can be freely selected. The MPPES is also available with a setpoint module.
This valve was specifically designed for high pressures of 10-40 bar. As an individual device with threaded connections, the valve can be used in a variety of applications, for example in stretch blow moulding of PET bottles in the food and beverage industry or on tyre or brake test benches in the automotive industry.
Valves VPPM and VPPM-NPT offer the right parameters for any application. The right control characteristic is easy to select from 3 presets at the touch of a button. The two-stage control loops with multi-sensor control also allow them to be regulated precisely and reliably.
Proportional-pressure regulator VPPM
Proportional-pressure regulator VPPM-NPT
Proportional valve VPPX from the valve range VPPM ensures maximum flexibility and the best process quality. With the freely parameterisable PID controller and the external sensor, even customer-specific tasks can be realised quickly and easily.
The directly actuated valve with integrated pressure compensation regulates dynamically and precisely even in large nominal widths. An efficient moving-coil drive makes the VPPI very dynamic, while a lower-order position controller ensures excellent stability. The full graphic display offers multiple setting options.
VPPE is the most cost-effective proportional valve in the range. It is available both with and without display and optionally with a setpoint module. The setpoint is input as an analogue voltage signal (0-10 V or 4-20 mA).
For pressure ranges up to 10 bar, piezo technology makes the VEAA extremely precise and gives it a very long service life. Other benefits include extremely short switching times, quiet operation and very low energy consumption.
Piezo technology also makes the VEAB very precise and sturdy for pressure ranges from vacuum to 6 bar. In addition, the valve also stands out because of its short switching times, quiet operation and high energy efficiency.
Our range of pneumatic connection technology includes various connecting components such as fittings, couplings and distributors as well as the matching tubing and piping. Using suitable connectors, pneumatic components in industrial automation can easily be connected to the overall system. In addition, other components and accessories for pneumatic solutions, such as seals or protective tubing systems, are available to suit your needs.
The product range from Festo has an impressive variety of system solutions. It is continuously further developed and, above all, coordinated to form application-specific tube/fitting combinations. Our range of tubing covers every conceivable task. Whether it's for standard requirements or extreme conditions, such as heat, welding spatter, high pH values and resistance to hydrolysis, you can find a suitable tubing/fitting combination for every industry.
Pneumatic fittings, also called compressed air connectors, are important components in pneumatic connection technology. You will find that the Festo range of fittings, whether push-in, barbed, threaded or click fittings, extends from purely plastic ones to stainless steel fittings for maximum corrosion and chemical resistance.
Thanks to their smooth inner walls and rigidity, compressed air pipes offer optimum flow conditions and are an alternative to pneumatic tubing. You have the choice between pipes made of aluminium, plastic pipes made of high-quality polyamide and plastic-coated metal tubes made of polyethylene and aluminium.
Thanks to the simple principle of "cut – push in – done", push-in fittings are quick and easy to install and equally quick and easy to connect and disconnect, even multiple times.
Pneumatic couplings are self-sealing connecting components which always consist of a socket and plug combination. Quick couplings and safety couplings from Festo allow you to quickly and conveniently supply pneumatic systems with compressed air. Different sizes can be used for different applications. Couplings are traditionally used for pneumatic tools, hall installations and laboratory equipment.
Compressed air distributors are the ideal choice whenever you need to distribute your compressed air to different systems. You can use different types in order to direct the compressed air from one access point to several outputs at the required location. There is a choice of distributor blocks, rotary distributors and multiple distributors in a variety of materials, such as aluminium, brass/steel and PBT/nickel-plated brass.
Our protective conduit systems for pneumatic tubing consist of protective conduits and tube fittings. Protective conduits are flexible tubes made of metal or plastic used to protect pneumatic tubing and electrical cables on machines and installations. It is recommended that suitable fittings be used to ensure optimum use of the protective conduits.
Our comprehensive range of accessories for pneumatic connection technology includes union nuts (quick connectors, sealing caps, distributor pieces, multiple distributors, ring pieces and hollow bolts), tools such as connecting and disconnecting pliers or tubing and pipe cutters, as well as various sealing rings. Hose clips, tubing straps and tubing supports complete our range of our accessories.
Pneumatic tubing is used when compressed air is to be supplied to the point of consumption. Which tube is the right one depends on the area of application and the individual requirements. It is important that the tubing is maintained regularly so that defects can be ruled out and the longevity and functionality of the pneumatic application is not jeopardised. Festo pneumatic tubing is just as reliable at meeting standard requirements as it is at operating in extreme conditions such as heat, welding spatter, high pH values or hydrolysis resistance.
O.D. pneumatic tubing is the current standard in pneumatics. It is suitable for use with all modern fittings, e.g. QS, NPQM as barbed fitting and NPQH. For standard O.D. tubing, the outside diameter of the tube is specified as the tube size. In addition, there is standard I.D. tubing where the inside diameter of the tube is specified as the tube size. These were used as the standard in pneumatics before there were push-in fittings. You will find I.D. pneumatic tubing for all fittings that were commonly used, e.g. CK, CN, PK. However, when using different working lengths and tensile loads, spiral tubes are the first choice. Especially when combined with pneumatic tools, they also offer the right accessories. Our wide range of O.D. and I.D. tubing as well as spiral tubes is available in various diameters and materials. You will also find suitable accessories for your pneumatic tubing at Festo.
The material of a pneumatic tube should be suitable for the individual requirements. Here are some individual materials and their characteristics:
Pneumatic tubing made of polyurethane (or PU) is the first choice when pneumatic control systems have to be connected. It is available in numerous sizes and is characterised by its flexibility and small bending radii. PU pneumatic tubing is available in many different colours, which is practical for keeping track of the individual lines when installing tubing for complex control systems. It meets numerous requirements thanks to its different special properties: they are spatter-proof, flame-retardant and electrically conductive.
Compared to PU tubes, those made of polyamide (or PA), are more temperature-resistant and thus more pressure-resistant. As a result, the tubing material is stronger and therefore less flexible since polyamide is semi-rigid and kink-resistant. PA tubing is generally completely pressure-resistant at a temperature range of -50°C to +20°C (decreasing thereafter as the temperature rises) and is therefore ideally suited for use as compressed air lines as well as compressed air brake lines.
Pneumatic tubing is made of polyethylene (or PE), is very light, resistant to impacts and largely resistant to acids, alkalis and salt solutions. PE tubing is suitable for use in a temperature range from -30°C to +80°C and is the most cost-effective variant of all pneumatic tubes.
Pneumatic tubing PTFE / PTFA / PFA is suitable for extreme temperature ranges from -20°C to +150°C. It fits with all common connector types and is available as standard in natural colours and as CS type in green and red. PFA tubes can also be welded.
Which of the Festo pneumatic tubes is the right one for you depends entirely on your requirements. Our product range includes tubes of different diameters, lengths, colours and materials. Regardless of whether the tube has to meet standard requirements or extreme conditions such as high temperatures or changeable weather conditions, at Festo you will find a suitable tube for every industry.
Pneumatic fittings, also called compressed air connectors, are an important component in pneumatic connection technology. And there is a matching fitting for every pneumatic tube. At Festo you will find fittings ranging from purely plastic fittings to stainless steel fittings for maximum corrosion resistance and chemical resistance. Discover which compressed air connectors are most suitable for your applications.
You can find more products in our category: Pneumatic connection technology
Festo offers a wide range of products for reliably connecting pneumatic tubing, whether push-in, barbed, threaded or click fittings. What's special about Festo is that our range is characterised by the typical system solution concept. In recent years, we have worked hard to further develop both tubings and fittings, and put considerable effort into ensuring that our application-specific tubing/fitting combinations are optimally coordinated.
You will find suitable pneumatic tubing in our category: Pneumatic tubing
Pneumatic push-in fittings are the standard on the market for pneumatic fittings and are very widely used. They are characterised by the easy release function for the tube, i.e. by pressing a releasing ring. These compressed air connectors are used with the standard O.D. tubing that is commonly available on the market.
Pneumatic barbed fittings are, historically speaking, the predecessor of push-in fittings. Standard I.D. tubing is inserted via a nipple here. With the CK variant, a bulkhead quick connector, a union nut provides additional mechanical protection.
A threaded fitting is a component that can be combined with another to create the right connection (in terms of diameter, thread type etc.). So it is not possible to connect tubing directly to these fittings, be they blanking plugs, elbow and ring fittings, or adapters.
Our pneumatic click fittings are completely made of plastic and have no metal content. Furthermore, the patented release mechanism is unique on the market. If you want to install tubing quickly and easily with one hand, then the click fitting is a good choice.