Description

The SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5 is a high-density, modular solenoid valve manifold engineered for centralized pneumatic control in advanced automation systems. As part of SMC’s renowned INR Series, this INR-244-97B-B-X5 integrates 24 individual 3/2-way valves with IO-Link communication capability into a single compact unit, significantly reducing wiring complexity and cabinet space. Designed for demanding assembly lines and robotics, its corrosion-resistant aluminum body (-B suffix) withstands industrial washdown environments while the -X5 variant adds enhanced diagnostics and real-time pressure monitoring per valve. The manifold supports both individual and grouped valve control with sub-millisecond response times, enabling precise sequencing of pneumatic actuators, clamps, and grippers. Integrated surge suppression and reverse polarity protection ensure longevity in electrically noisy settings. The SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5 delivers plug-and-play integration via fieldbus protocols, making it ideal for Industry 4.0 applications requiring predictive maintenance data and energy consumption analytics.

Technical Specifications

Main Features and Advantages

Space-Optimized Architecture: The INR-244-97B-B-X5 consolidates 24 valves into a 244mm-wide profile, reducing footprint by 60% versus discrete valves. Unified air supply (1x G3/8 inlet) simplifies plumbing.
Advanced Diagnostics: Real-time monitoring of individual valve status, cycle counts, and coil temperature enables predictive maintenance. The -X5 variant detects abnormalities like stuck spools or voltage fluctuations through IO-Link parameter feedback.
Robust Connectivity: Standard M12 4-pin connector transmits all 24 valve signals via single IO-Link cable, eliminating traditional I/O modules. Supports valve grouping for synchronized actuator control.
Environmental Resilience: IP65 sealing protects against dust/water jets. Aluminum body (-B suffix) resists chemical corrosion in automotive paint shops or food processing. Integrated surge absorbers prevent coil burnout.
Energy Optimization: Low-power coils (0.3W/valve) reduce heat generation. Leak detection algorithms identify air losses during idle cycles.

Application Field

The SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5 excels in high-valve-count automation requiring centralized control. Automotive production lines deploy it for engine block clamping, welding gun sequencing, and conveyor diverters. In electronics manufacturing, it controls vacuum generators for PCB handling robots. Packaging machinery utilizes its fast response for fill-head positioning and capping station actuation. Semiconductor fabs leverage its cleanroom-compatible design for wafer transfer arms. The INR-244-97B-B-X5’s IO-Link capability enables remote valve tuning in hazardous areas like chemical processing. Food/beverage plants benefit from washdown-ready construction for filling valve blocks.

Related Products

INR-122-97B-B-X5: 12-valve version of same manifold

SY3000/5000 Series: Individual valves for manifold repair

EX600-SEN1: IO-Link master unit for PLC integration

AFM30-02: Air filter-regulator for supply conditioning

CDG1BN: Digital pressure sensor for manifold feedback

ZSE80F: Flow sensor for air consumption monitoring

INR-M4-OL: IO-Link adapter for legacy manifolds

VHS10: Vacuum generator compatible with valve outputs

Installation and Maintenance

Pre-installation preparation: Verify air supply cleanliness (ISO 8573-1 Class 3). Install 5µm filter upstream. Confirm IO-Link master compatibility (e.g., Siemens ET200SP). Use shielded cable for IO-Link communication. Align manifold horizontally to prevent condensate pooling.
Maintenance recommendations: Monitor valve cycle counts via IO-Link diagnostics. Replace seals every 500,000 cycles in high-duty applications. Clean air vents quarterly with dry compressed air. Calibrate pressure sensors annually. Update valve parameters through SMC’s SMC-EX softwar