AR30-03E-B: The “Pressure Guardian” of Industrial Pneumatic Systems
2026-02-10
As a core member of SMC’s modular pressure reducing valve family, the AR30-03E-B, with its relief-type structure, square flush-mounted pressure gauge, and large 3/8-inch port size, serves as the “steadfast anchor” for stabilizing pressure and ensuring safety in medium-to-large pneumatic equipment.
Key Parameters at a Glance
| Parameter Item | Specification | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Modular Pressure Reducing Valve (Relief Type) | Features automatic exhaust function for more precise pressure setting. |
| Port Size | Rc3/8 | 3/8-inch British Standard Pipe Thread. |
| Set Pressure Range | 0.05 ~ 0.85 MPa | Wide adjustable range, adaptable to various working conditions. |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 1.0 MPa | Maximum withstand pressure on the inlet side. |
| Pressure Test Pressure | 1.5 MPa | Ample safety margin. |
| Fluid Medium | Air | Suitable for standard industrial air supply. |
| Ambient Temperature | -5 ~ 60 °C | Suitable for standard industrial environments. |
| Pressure Gauge Type | Square Flush-Mounted (with Limit Indicator) | Designed for panel mounting, offering intuitive reading. |
In-Depth Product Analysis
1. Model Code Breakdown
- AR30: Series code representing a modular pressure reducing valve with a main body size of 30.
- 03: Port size code, representing Rc3/8 (3/8-inch British Standard Pipe Thread).
- E: Option code, representing a square flush-mounted pressure gauge (with limit indicator) and no adjusting nut, specifically designed for panel mounting.
- B: Standard specification code, representing relief type, flow direction left→right, handwheel facing downward, with product nameplate and pressure gauge units in MPa.
2. Core Features & Advantages
- Relief-Type Structure: Incorporates an internal mechanism that rapidly exhausts pressure from the outlet side. When the outlet pressure exceeds the set value, the valve automatically vents, ensuring pressure stabilizes at the set point. This is ideal for applications requiring frequent adjustments or where a secondary-side reservoir exists.
- Modular Design: Employs a modular structure, allowing for convenient direct installation with SMC’s filter combination units (e.g., AF, AFM series) to form a pneumatic FRL (Filter-Regulator-Lubricator) unit, saving space and simplifying installation.
- Large Port Size & High Flow: The 3/8-inch port size provides significant flow capacity, meeting the high-flow demands of medium-to-large pneumatic equipment and reducing pressure loss.
- Panel-Mount Friendly: The E-option’s square flush-mounted pressure gauge design makes it ideally suited for recessed installation into equipment panels, enhancing aesthetics and effectively protecting the gauge from external impacts.
3. Typical Application Scenarios
- Automated Production Lines: Used to control the driving pressure for actuators like cylinders and grippers, ensuring consistent actuation force.
- Packaging Machinery: Regulates pressure for pneumatic tools used in sealing, cutting, etc., guaranteeing packaging quality.
- Machine Tool Equipment: Serves as the pressure source for pneumatic control systems, providing stable working air pressure.
Selection & Usage Recommendations
- Upstream Air Conditioning: An air filter must be installed upstream of the pressure reducing valve to prevent clogging of the internal orifice by condensate, oil, or dust, which could cause malfunction. If downstream lubrication is required, the lubricator should be installed on the outlet side of the pressure reducing valve.
- Confirm Installation Direction: The flow direction for this model is left→right (typically indicated by an arrow pointing right). Ensure correct orientation during installation; reverse installation is strictly prohibited.
- Pressure Setting Operation: Adjust the handwheel by hand; do not use tools to force it. Set the pressure by turning in the pressure-increasing direction. After adjustment, press the handwheel back to lock it, preventing set pressure changes due to vibration.
- Relief Exhaust Handling: The relief-type pressure reducing valve will exhaust a small amount of air from the relief port during operation; this is normal. Consider exhaust treatment or select a non-relief type if used in environments with hazardous gases or requiring cleanliness.
Summary
The SMC AR30-03E-B is a reliable modular relief-type pressure reducing valve. Its core value lies in achieving high-precision stabilization of outlet pressure through its relief function, combined with its large 3/8-inch port size and square flush-mounted pressure gauge. This makes it an ideal choice for the air preparation stage in medium-to-large automated equipment. For engineers pursuing system stability and installation convenience, it is a foundational component for building efficient pneumatic control systems.
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