SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5 | Digital Electro-Pneumatic Regulator | New Project Selection Guide

  • Model: INR-244-97B-B-X5
  • Brand: SMC Corporation
  • Core Positioning: High-precision electro-pneumatic regulator with digital display and analog feedback for closed-loop pressure control
  • Lifecycle Status: Active (in production)
  • Selection Advantages: ±0.5% F.S. pressure accuracy, integrated LCD for local monitoring, analog output for process verification, fast response time, compact footprint
  • Suitable Projects: New automated assembly systems, test stands, robotics end-effectors, and medical packaging equipment requiring repeatable, monitored air pressure
Category: SKU: SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5

Description

Technical Specifications

  • Product Model: INR-244-97B-B-X5
  • Manufacturer: SMC Corporation
  • Series: INR (Intelligent Regulator)
  • Supply Pressure Range: 0.1 to 1.0 MPa (1 to 10 bar)
  • Output Pressure Range: 0.01 to 0.8 MPa (0.1 to 8 bar)
  • Control Voltage: 24 V DC
  • Analog Output Signal: 0–10 V DC (proportional to actual output pressure)
  • Display Type: Backlit LCD showing setpoint and actual pressure (0.001 MPa resolution)
  • Response Time: ≤ 100 ms (to 90% of target)
  • Repeatability: ±0.2% F.S.
  • Port Size: Rc1/4 (BSPT) – confirmed by “-97B” suffix
  • Ambient Temperature Range: 0 to 50°C
  • Protection Rating: IP40 (front panel), suitable for clean industrial environments

Core Performance and Selection Advantages

The INR-244-97B-B-X5 delivers exceptional pressure stability and diagnostic visibility compared to conventional mechanical regulators or basic I/P converters. Its core advantage lies in closing the control loop at the point of use: the built-in pressure sensor continuously monitors outlet pressure, enabling real-time correction for load changes, supply fluctuations, or temperature drift. This results in ±0.5% full-scale accuracy—critical for applications like delicate gripper force control or leak testing where ±10 kPa variation could cause false rejects.

Compared to legacy solutions that require separate pressure sensors, displays, and PLC-based PID loops, the INR integrates all functions into a single DIN-rail-mountable unit. This eliminates signal noise from long analog runs, reduces wiring complexity, and shortens commissioning time. The 0–10 V analog feedback allows the machine controller to log actual pressure per cycle—a key requirement for quality traceability in automotive and medical manufacturing.

From a total cost of ownership (TCO) standpoint, this integration reduces component count, panel space, and troubleshooting effort. Engineers avoid sourcing and calibrating three separate devices (regulator + sensor + display), while maintenance teams benefit from immediate local diagnostics without connecting a laptop. For high-mix production lines, the ability to verify pressure via HMI (using the analog signal) supports rapid changeover validation, minimizing downtime between batches.

SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5

SMC INR-244-97B-B-X5

System Integration and Expandability

The INR-244-97B-B-X5 integrates seamlessly into modern automation architectures without requiring specialized software. It accepts a standard 0–10 V or 4–20 mA command signal from any PLC, motion controller, or PC-based system (e.g., Beckhoff, Siemens, Omron). No proprietary configuration tools are needed—setpoint scaling is handled in the controller logic.

For connectivity, the analog output can be routed directly to a PLC analog input card or a remote I/O block (e.g., EtherNet/IP or PROFINET). This enables real-time pressure trending in SCADA systems and supports predictive maintenance (e.g., detecting gradual pressure drop due to filter clogging). While the unit itself does not support fieldbus protocols natively, its simplicity ensures compatibility across vendor ecosystems—ideal for integrators managing multi-brand machine builds.

In terms of scalability, multiple INR units can be deployed on a single machine for independent zone control (e.g., left/right grippers, multiple test stations). Each operates autonomously but reports status to the central controller, enabling coordinated sequences. The compact width (30 mm) allows dense mounting in control panels, and optional mounting brackets support field installation near actuators—reducing air line volume and improving response. For future upgrades, SMC offers IO-Link variants (e.g., INR-L series) that add parameterization and diagnostics over a digital bus, allowing a smooth migration path without redesigning pneumatic circuits.