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Metalwork

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Metalwork

Metalwork is an Italian manufacturer of pneumatic components and automation parts that supplies a complete range of air treatment units, pressure regulators, and associated pneumatic accessories for the automation industry. The company, based in Concesio, has built a reputation for the reliability and precision of its control equipment in demanding industrial environments.

The core product of Metalwork are the 100 series pressure regulators used for accurately setting and maintaining instrument air pressure in pneumatic systems. The 100 series regulators are available in connection sizes from G1/8 to G1 and for pressure ranges from 0.5 to 16 bar. The regulators feature an integrated pressure gauge and a transparent plastic bowl for visual inspection of condensate level. The version without exhaust (closed-center) and with exhaust (relieving) are both available for static and dynamic load conditions respectively.

The APR series precision pressure regulators from Metalwork are designed for applications requiring higher control accuracy than the standard 100 series provides. The APR regulators feature a precision spring and refined control valve that keeps outlet pressure stable at varying flow rates. This makes them suitable for sensor systems, pneumatic air cushion applications, and precise force setting via cylinders.

The Metalwork FRL range includes filter-regulator-lubricator units that can be configured in modular design with separate filter, regulator, and lubricator bowl, or as a compact combination unit. The filters are available with filter fineness of 5, 25, and 40 micrometers for fine, standard, and pre-filtration respectively. The lubricator bowls use the oil mist principle for adding a precision-dosed amount of lubricating oil to the instrument air for lubrication of pneumatic cylinders and valves.

Verkopershulp.nl supplies the complete Metalwork range of 100 series pressure regulators, APR precision regulators, FRL combinations, filters, lubricator bowls, and associated accessories such as gauge protection covers, mounting brackets, and interconnection plates for modular valve island mounting. Our pneumatics specialists advise on choosing the correct regulator-FRL combination for your application.

History

Metalwork SpA was founded in Concesio, Italy, as a manufacturer of pneumatic components for the Italian and European manufacturing industry. The company gradually grew into a recognized international supplier of pneumatic air treatment components, regulators, and FRL units. Metalwork continuously invests in product development and has expanded its product program from basic FRL components to complete pneumatic system solutions for factory automation. The company supplies customers in dozens of countries and cooperates with major machine builders and system integrators in the European automation industry.

Product Categories

  • 100 series pressure regulators G1/8 to G1
  • APR precision pressure regulators
  • FRL combinations modular design
  • Air filters 5/25/40 micrometer
  • Oil lubricator bowls pneumatic
  • Water separators and microfilters
  • Gauges for air treatment
  • Soft-start valve units
  • Modular valve island interconnection plates
  • Connection adapters and mounting clamps
  • Automatic condensate drains
  • Air treatment modules for valve islands

Applications

  • Factory automation compressed air treatment
  • Pneumatic cylinder systems precise force setting
  • Sensor air supply precise pressure control
  • Packaging machines FRL blocks
  • Robotics and handling compressed air supply
  • Machine tools pneumatic tool drives
  • Assembly automats instrument air
  • Food industry oil-free compressed air
  • Pharmaceutical production air treatment
  • Electronics manufacturing ESD-safe pneumatics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Metalwork 100 series and APR precision pressure regulators?
The Metalwork 100 series are general pressure regulators for industrial use with a setting accuracy of typically ±0.1 to ±0.2 bar. They are suitable for most standard pneumatic applications where the exact air pressure is not critical. The APR precision pressure regulators feature a refined control valve and more accurate spring, enabling pressures to be set and maintained in steps of 0.01 bar. The APR series is intended for applications such as air cushions, precise force setting, and instrument air supply where higher control accuracy is required.
Which filter fineness do I choose for the Metalwork FRL filter?
Metalwork FRL filters are available in three filter fineness grades: 40 micrometers for coarse pre-filtration as the first filter after the compressor, 25 micrometers as the standard point-of-use filter for most pneumatic drives and valves, and 5 micrometers as fine filter for sensors, pneumatic instruments, and applications that tolerate no contamination. In demanding environments, a combination of 40 micrometer pre-filter and 5 micrometer post-filter is recommended.
How do I set the oil delivery of a Metalwork lubricator bowl?
The lubricator bowl of the Metalwork FRL unit has an adjustment screw on top of the element controlling the oil delivery per liter of compressed air flowing through. Turn the screw clockwise for less oil, counterclockwise for more oil. The recommended oil delivery is 1-2 drops per 1000 liters of compressed air for most standard pneumatic cylinders and valves. Verify the oil delivery by observing the oil mist cloud in the lubricator bowl at normal operating pressure and flow.
Are Metalwork FRL components interchangeable with other brands?
Metalwork FRL components follow their own modular mounting standard that is not directly interchangeable with components from Festo, SMC, or Parker. The thread sizes for the air connection are standardized (G1/8 to G1). For replacing an existing FRL from another manufacturer with Metalwork, an adapter plate or conversion connection is available. Contact our specialists for the available conversion solutions.
What is the maximum working pressure of Metalwork 100 series pressure regulators?
Metalwork 100 series pressure regulators are designed for a maximum inlet pressure of 16 bar and an outlet pressure range from 0.5 to 10 bar for standard models. Special versions are available for higher inlet pressures up to 25 bar. The operating temperature is from -10°C to +60°C for standard plastic versions. For higher temperatures, versions with metal housing are available.
How do I replace the filter element of a Metalwork FRL filter?
Switch off the compressed air and release the pressure via the exhaust button. Unscrew the filter bowl downward and remove the bowl. Pull the filter element upward out of the filter holder. Clean the filter bowl with water and a soft brush. Install the new filter element and screw the bowl back on. Restore the compressed air supply and check for leaks. Replace the filter element when heavily contaminated or when pressure drop across the filter exceeds 0.5 bar.
Are Metalwork FRL units suitable for oil-free compressed air applications?
Yes, for applications where no lubricating oil is desired in the compressed air (pharmaceutical, food, electronics assembly), Metalwork supplies FRL units without lubricator bowl, consisting solely of filter and pressure regulator. The filters remove aerosol oil and solid particles, while the pressure regulator maintains the desired system pressure. For complete oil removal to class 1 per ISO 8573-1, an additional activated carbon filter is recommended.
Can I fit an automatic condensate drain on a Metalwork filter?
Yes, Metalwork supplies automatic condensate drains that can be fitted in the drain opening of the filter bowl as a replacement for the manual drain screw. The automatic drain opens pneumatically or via a float mechanism when the condensate level in the filter bowl reaches a set level. This eliminates the need for manual condensate removal and reduces the risk of water overflow into the compressed air line.