SFAH-200U-Q8S-PNLK-PNVBA-L1 Festo Flow Sensor

Technical Overview

The SFAH-200U-Q8S-PNLK-PNVBA-L1 is a precision thermal flow sensor designed for monitoring mass and volumetric flow rates of compressed air and nitrogen. It features a unidirectional measuring principle based on heat transfer, providing accurate data with a multi-colour illuminated LCD display. The device supports advanced integration via IO-Link, offering switchable PNP/NPN outputs and multiple analogue signal options (0-10V, 1-5V, 4-20mA). Built for versatility, it includes various mounting options and provides comprehensive diagnostics via the Smart sensor profile.

Key Features

Thermal measuring principle using heat transfer method
Unidirectional flow monitoring for compressed air and nitrogen
Switchable outputs: 2 x PNP or 2 x NPN
Multiple analogue output options: 0-10 V, 4-20 mA, 1-5 V
Multi-colour illuminated LCD display for clear visualization
IO-Link, Teach-in, and local display/key configuration
PA-reinforced housing for industrial durability
Short circuit and overload protection
Protection against tampering via IO-Link PIN code
Cleanroom suitability according to ISO 14644-1 Class 4

Technical Specification Matrix

Parameter	Value
Symbol	00995795
Approval	RCM trademark c UL us listed (OL)
CE mark (see declaration of conformity)	To EU EMC Directive In accordance with EU RoHS Directive
UKCA marking (see declaration of conformity)	To UK RoHS instructions
Certificate issuing authority	UL E322346
Note on materials	RoHS-compliant
Measured variable	Mass flow rate Volumetric flow rate
Flow direction	Unidirectional
Measuring principle	Thermal
Measurement method	Heat transfer
Start value for flow rate measuring range	4 l/min
End value for flow rate measuring range	200 l/min
Operating pressure	-0.9 bar ... 10 bar
Operating medium	Compressed air to ISO 8573-1:2010 [6:4:4] Nitrogen
Media temperature	0 °C ... 50 °C
Ambient temperature	0 °C ... 50 °C
Nominal temperature	23 °C
Accuracy of flow rate	± (2% o.m.v. + 1% FS)
Repetition accuracy offset in ± %FS	0.2 %FS
Repetition accuracy span in ± %FS	0.8 %FS
Temperature coefficient span in ± %FS/K	Typ. 0.15%FS/K
Pressure influence span in ± %FS/bar	1 %FS/b.
Switching output	2 x PNP or 2 x NPN, switchable
Switching function	Window comparator Threshold value comparator Auto difference monitoring
Switching element function	N/C or N/O contact, switchable
Max. output current	100 mA
Analogue output	0 - 10 V 4 - 20 mA 1 - 5 V
Flow characteristic curve start value	0 l/min
Flow characteristic curve end value	200 l/min
Max. load resistance current output	500 Ohm
Min. load resistance voltage output	20 kOhm
Short circuit current rating	yes
Overload protection	Available
Protocol	IO-Link®
IO-Link, Protocol version	Device V 1.1
IO-Link, Profile	Smart sensor profile
IO-Link, Function classes	Binary data channel (BDC) Process data variable (PDV) Identification Diagnostics Teach channel
IO-Link, communication mode	COM2 (38.4 kBaud)
IO-Link, SIO-Mode support	Yes
IO-Link, Port class	A
IO-Link, Process data length IN	3 bytes
IO-Link, Process data content IN	1 bit BDC (volume monitoring) 14 bit PDV (measured flow value) 2 bit BDC (flow monitoring)
IO-Link, Service data IN	32-bit volume/mass measurement
IO-Link, Min. cycle time	4 ms
IO-Link, Data storage required	<500 Byte
Operational voltage range	DC 22 V ... 26 V
No-load supply current	≤25 mA
Reverse polarity protection	For all electrical connections
Electrical connection 1, connection type	Plugs
Electrical connection 1, connector system	Connection pattern L1J
Electrical connection 1, number of connections/cores	4
Electrical connection 1, connection pattern	00995428
Type of mounting	With accessories
Mounting position	optional
Pneumatic connection	For tubing O.D. 8 mm
Pneumatic connection, outlet direction	Straight
Product weight	60 g
Material housing	PA-reinforced
Material in contact with the medium	Silicon Silicon nitride High-alloy stainless steel
Display type	Illuminated LCD, multi-colour
Displayable units	g g/min l l/min scft scft/h scft/min
Setting options	IO-Link® Teach-in Via display and keys
Protection against tampering	IO-Link PIN code
Degree of protection	IP40
Pressure drop	56 mbar
Protection class	III
Corrosion resistance class CRC	2 - Moderate corrosion stress
LABS (PWIS) conformity	VDMA24364-B2-L
Cleanroom suitability, measured according to ISO 14644-14	Class 4 according to ISO 14644-1
Pollution degree	3

Industrial Applications

1. Nitrogen Purging Verification for Reflow Soldering Ovens

In electronics manufacturing, reflow soldering ovens require a controlled nitrogen atmosphere to prevent oxidation of solder joints. The Festo SFAH-200U flow sensor is installed on the nitrogen supply line (8mm tubing) feeding the oven's process chamber. It continuously monitors the mass flow rate to ensure it remains within the optimal process window (e.g., 50-150 l/min). The sensor's IO-Link interface transmits real-time flow data to the PLC, allowing for precise regulation of the gas usage and immediate alarms if the flow drops below the critical threshold required for inertization.

Problem Solved

Prevents solder defects (oxidation, poor wetting) caused by insufficient nitrogen coverage while minimizing gas waste. The ISO 14644-1 Class 4 cleanroom rating ensures the sensor introduces no particulate contamination into the sensitive electronics production environment.

Nitrogen MonitoringReflow SolderingCleanroom Class 4IO-LinkMass Flow RateWindow Comparator

2. Compressed Air Leak Detection in Packaging Machine Cells

This application utilizes the SFAH-200U to monitor the compressed air consumption of a specific packaging machine cell (e.g., a cartoner or blister packer). Connected via the Q8S (8mm) push-in fitting to the machine's main air input, the sensor tracks volumetric flow up to 200 l/min. Utilizing the 'Auto difference monitoring' and 'Min/Max value memory' functions, the system identifies baseline air usage and detects deviations indicative of developing leaks or pneumatic component failure (e.g., worn seals) when the machine is in an idle state.

Problem Solved

Reduces energy costs by identifying air leaks early and prevents unplanned downtime by predicting pneumatic failures. The 'Auto difference monitoring' feature specifically automates the detection of gradual flow changes that manual inspections often miss.

Leak DetectionEnergy EfficiencyAuto Difference MonitoringVolumetric Flow RatePredictive MaintenanceQ8S Connection

3. Flow Monitoring for Static Neutralizing Ionizer Bars

Static neutralizing ionizer bars use a stream of compressed air to transport ions onto non-conductive materials (like plastic films) to prevent static buildup. The SFAH-200U sensor monitors the air flow supply to the ionizer bar. Using the 'Window comparator' switching function, the sensor validates that airflow is maintained within the effective range (e.g., 100-180 l/min). If the flow is too low, ions are not delivered effectively; if too high, it causes turbulence or waste. The multi-color LCD display provides immediate visual status feedback to operators.

Problem Solved

Ensures product quality by guaranteeing effective static neutralization, preventing issues like dust attraction, material jamming, or electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage. It also protects the ionizer performance by verifying consistent air supply pressure and flow.

Static NeutralizationIonizer BarProcess ControlWindow ComparatorMulti-colour LCDPNP Switching Output