An electric speed controller for pneumatic systems has  been launched by pneumatics equipment supplier SMC.

The company says the PFES Series enables remote adjustment of pneumatic actuator speed. It is intended for installations where access is restricted or poses safety risks.

The PFES Series uses an electrically operated needle valve to regulate compressed air flow. This replaces traditional manual flow controllers.

“Operators can send open or close signals from a remote location. This allows speed adjustment in clean rooms, guarded machinery or elevated installations without entering the machine area,” SMC explains.

The controller installs in the same way as a conventional flow controller. Its electric motor enables control using simple ‘up’ or ‘down’ signals.

Once the required setting is reached, power can be removed. The valve retains its position and continues operating without continuous energy use.

SMC states that the system can reduce commissioning and maintenance time. Multiple speed controllers can be adjusted at the same time using a single remote signal.

“This removes the need to manually set each unit. It also avoids inconsistencies between machines,” the company confirms.

The valve also has a grease-free design. This makes it suitable for applications where contamination must be avoided, such as those requiring direct air flow onto products.

During commissioning, the PFES Series can be adjusted manually if electrical controls are not yet available. This allows setup to continue without delay.

SMC says that, in the event of power loss, the valve maintains its last position. Pneumatic operation continues without the need for reset or homing.

Manual adjustment remains possible during such conditions.

SMC also states that the controller does not require complex drivers, controllers or software. It can be integrated into existing systems without specialised electrical expertise.

The company adds that the PFES Series supports the digitalisation of pneumatic systems, enabling manual adjustment tasks to be controlled through digital signals. This allows integration with programmable logic controllers and human-machine interfaces.

“The system also supports centralised control of multiple devices. Production parameters can be linked to different operating states,” SMC reports.

It adds that the valve can assist with reducing air consumption during low-load periods, supporting energy management in automated environments.

The PFES Series is compatible with SMC fieldbus and input/output systems, forming part of a modular automation platform.