Overview and Key Specifications
The Festo SPAU-B11R-W-G18FD-L-PNLK-PNVBA-M8U (part number 8200257) is a piezoresistive relative pressure sensor designed for monitoring compressed air and inert gases in industrial automation. It measures pressure from -14.5 psi to 145 psi, with an overload rating of 217.5 psi, and delivers accuracy of ±1.5% FS and repeatability of ±0.3% FS. The sensor is certified to RCM, c UL us, CE, UKCA, and KC standards, and is RoHS-compliant.
This model features a G1/8 pneumatic connection and an M8x1 A-coded 4-pin electrical plug. It is housed in a compact unit with an illuminated LCD/LED display that can show pressure in multiple units including MPa, bar, psi, kPa, and inH2O. The device is rated IP65/IP67 and has corrosion resistance class 2, making it suitable for moderate industrial environments.
Flexible Outputs and IO-Link Integration
The sensor provides two freely programmable switching outputs (PNP or NPN, switchable) with a maximum output current of 100 mA each. It also offers an analog output selectable among 0-10 V, 1-5 V, and 4-20 mA, with a rise time of 3 ms. This flexibility allows the SPAU-B11R-W-G18FD-L-PNLK-PNVBA-M8U to interface with a wide range of PLCs, drives, and control systems.
For advanced automation, the sensor supports IO-Link version 1.1 with a Smart Sensor profile. It operates in COM2 mode (38.4 kBd) and includes features such as binary data channel, process data variable, diagnostics, and teach channel. The process data input is 2 bytes, comprising a 14-bit pressure measurement and 2-bit pressure monitoring. Minimum cycle time is 3 ms, and the device supports SIO mode for standard I/O operation. This IO-Link capability enables remote configuration, condition monitoring, and quick parameter set changes, reducing downtime during setup or changeovers.
Installation and Handling
The sensor is designed for easy integration. It mounts on an H-rail (DIN rail) and can be installed in any orientation. The electrical connector is compatible with latching or screw locks and is rotatable, simplifying wiring in tight spaces. The pneumatic connection is G1/8, a common port size for compressed air systems. The unit weighs only 70 g, so it adds minimal load to the rail.
Setting up the sensor is straightforward: you can adjust parameters via the display and pushbuttons or via IO-Link teach-in. The switching outputs can be configured as N/C or N/O contacts, and hysteresis or threshold settings can be adjusted from 0% to 90% or 0% to 100% of the measuring range. A PIN code protection option prevents unauthorized changes, which is useful in production environments.
Environmental and Media Compatibility
The SPAU-B11R-W-G18FD-L-PNLK-PNVBA-M8U is built for use with compressed air per ISO 8573-1:2010 [7:4:4] and inert gases. Oil-lubricated operation is permissible, expanding its applicability in lubricated compressor systems. The wetted materials include FPM, PA-reinforced material, and high-alloy stainless steel, offering good resistance to common industrial gases. The operating and ambient temperature range is 0°C to 50°C, which covers typical indoor automation environments.
The sensor meets LABS (PWIS) conformity to VDMA24364-B1/B2-L, making it suitable for use in paint shops and other applications where silicone-free materials are required. With a corrosion resistance class of 2, it can withstand moderate corrosion stress, but for highly corrosive atmospheres, a higher-rated sensor may be necessary.
Practical Benefits for Automation Systems
For engineers and procurement teams, this Festo sensor offers a combination of precision, connectivity, and ease of use. The multiple output options reduce the need for different sensor variants, simplifying inventory. IO-Link compatibility future-proofs your system, allowing for predictive maintenance and data analytics. The compact design and flexible mounting help save space in control cabinets. With a 12-bit ADC and temperature coefficient of 0.05% FS/K, the sensor maintains stable performance across varying conditions. Whether you are monitoring filter blockages, verifying system pressure, or controlling actuators, the SPAU-B11R-W-G18FD-L-PNLK-PNVBA-M8U provides reliable data to keep your processes running efficiently.