FESTO flow sensors – precise and reliable flow monitoring

FESTO flow sensors are high-precision devices designed for measuring, monitoring, and diagnosing compressed air, gas, and liquid flows. They help to ensure energy-efficient production by identifying leaks, flow changes or system malfunctions in a timely manner. Flow monitoring enables preventive maintenance and real-time process monitoring, thus preventing equipment downtime and reducing costs.

Satura rādītājs

• Flow Sensor Applications
• Description of the Festo flow sensor series
• Overall comparison
• Advantages of FESTO flow sensors

Flow Sensor Applications

Festo flow sensors are used in a wide range of applications:

• For measuring compressed air and gas consumption to improve energy efficiency;
• For leak and tightness testing in production processes and final product testing;
• For handling small parts, such as controlling vacuum grippers;
• For process monitoring and diagnostics, where flow changes indicate potential damage or filter clogging;
• For controlling liquid flow and temperature in automated systems.

Description of the Festo flow sensor series

SFAH series

The Festo SFAH series flow sensors are compact and highly versatile solutions for monitoring the flow of compressed air and non-corrosive gases. They are particularly suitable for locations with limited installation space, as their housing size is only 20 × 58 mm. The sensor features a wide pressure range from −0.9 to +10 bar, as well as interchangeable QS connections and multiple mounting options. SFAH sensors provide reliable flow measurement in the range of 0.002 to 200 l/min and are ideal for precise control in small pneumatic systems.

SFAB series

The SFAB series sensors are high-precision flow transmitters designed for measuring the flow of compressed air and non-corrosive gases in the range of 0.1 to 1000 l/min. They are equipped with a clearly readable LCD display, a “teach-in” setup function, and the ability to measure both mass and volumetric flow. These sensors also offer minimum and maximum value memory, as well as analog and PNP output signals. The SFAB series is suitable for universal use – from energy consumption monitoring to process diagnostics.

SFAM series

The SFAM series flow sensors are designed for measuring and monitoring large flows, with a range from 10 to 15000 l/min. These sensors can operate both as standalone devices and integrated into Festo MS series pneumatic blocks. They are equipped with a large, clear display that shows flow data, consumption readings, and switching thresholds. SFAM complies with international standards (DIN 1343, ISO 2533, ISO 6358) and is ideal for compressor systems, air distribution network monitoring, and large production line supervision.

SFAW series

The Festo SFAW series is designed for measuring liquid flow in the range of 1.8 to 100 l/min (two measurement ranges available). These sensors can simultaneously measure flow rate and temperature, as well as monitor liquid consumption and fill levels. They are equipped with a rotating display, an IO-Link 1.1 interface, and offer very convenient installation and replacement without tools. SFAW is particularly suitable for industrial cooling, water supply, and liquid circulation systems.

SFTE series

The SFTE series sensors are miniature flow transmitters designed for very small gas flows in the range of 1 to 10 l/min. They feature an extremely fast response time of just 3 ms, lightweight construction, and compact size. These sensors are ideal for highly precise applications, such as small part handling systems, vacuum control, and laboratory testing equipment.

Overall comparison

Below is a summary of the key parameters among the Festo flow sensor series:

Advantages of FESTO flow sensors

• High precision and stability
• Versatile application for gases and liquids
• Easy integration with PLC (IO-Link, analog, PNP/NPN)
• Compact design
• Digital displays with multi-color identification and “teach-in” functions
• High dynamics and fast response
• Improvement of energy efficiency in production processes

Festo flow sensors ensure reliable flow measurement in pneumatic systems, offering solutions for all flow ranges and environments. The SFAH, SFAB, SFAM, SFAW, and SFTE series cover a wide range of needs from small flow control to industrial diagnostics.