Description
The SMC PFM550-C8-1 is a high-precision digital flow switch designed for industrial process control and automation. This unit utilizes thermal dispersion (thermal mass flow) technology to provide accurate and reliable measurement of gas flow rates. Featuring a large, easy-to-read digital display with green/red LED status indication, it allows for intuitive monitoring and setting of flow thresholds. The model C8-1 is specifically configured for Rc 1/4″ (C8) port size and NPN (sinking) output logic, making it ideal for integration with Japanese and Asian PLC systems (e.g., Mitsubishi, Omron, Fanuc). With IP65 protection, it is suitable for use in environments with dust and water splashes, ensuring long-term stability in compressed air systems, cooling circuits, and gas dosing applications.
Key Features
- Digital Flow Switch with thermal mass flow principle
- Port Size: C8 (Rc 1/4″ / NPT 1/4″)
- Output Logic: NPN (Sinking, Open Collector)
- Display: Large 7-segment LED with green (OK) / red (Alarm) backlight
- Setting Method: Tactile push-button operation (no tools required)
- Media: Compressed Air and Non-corrosive Gases (NOT for liquids)
- Flow Range: 1.0 to 100 L/min (ANR)
- Protection Rating: IP65
- Response Time: Approx. 1.5 seconds
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
Model Code | PFM550-C8-1 |
Supply Voltage | 12 to 24 VDC ±10% (Ripple P-P 10% max) |
Current Consumption | 70 mA max (excluding load current) |
Output Configuration | 2 outputs (NPN transistor, Open Collector) |
Max. Load Current | 100 mA per output |
Residual Voltage | 2.5 V max (at 100 mA load) |
Flow Rate Range | 1.0 to 100 L/min (Air, at 20°C, 101.3 kPa) |
Repeatability | ±2% F.S. (Full Scale) |
Ambient & Fluid Temperature | 0 to 50°C (No freezing, no condensation) |
Port Thread | Rc 1/4 (Conforms to JIS B 0203) |
Housing Material | PBT Resin |
Weight | Approx. 110 g |
Warranty & After-Sales
- Factory new units: 12 months warranty (SMC Original, Bulk Pack)
- Refurbished units: 3-6 months warranty (Cleaned, Tested, Calibration Checked)
- Technical support for wiring (NPN vs PNP compatibility with your PLC)
- Assistance with setting the hysteresis and response delay
- Troubleshooting for common issues (e.g., display flashing, no output)
Delivery Time
- Standard delivery: 3-5 working days
- Express shipping available for urgent machine downtime situations
Why Choose Our Store
- Genuine SMC Components: We specialize in pneumatic and fluid control automation parts.
- Critical Compatibility Advice: We highlight that the “-1” suffix means NPN output, which is critical for avoiding wiring damage with PNP-input PLCs.
- Application Knowledge: Understands its use in CNC machine tool coolant air blast, semiconductor gas panels, and packaging machinery.
- Documentation: Can provide the PFM550 series operation manual PDF upon request.
Applications
- Monitoring air flow in CNC machine tool spindles (cooling/lubrication)
- Leak detection in compressed air systems
- Gas flow confirmation in burner management systems
- Process control in semiconductor manufacturing (N2, Argon)
- Drying and blow-off systems in packaging lines





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