4Bar Factory

4Bar Factory

A 4BAR factory is a new SMC concept that significantly reduces CO2 emissions and power consumption by optimizing compressed air systems in factories.

In the past, most OEMs and industrial plants have designed their pneumatic machinery and main air supply lines to operate at a baseline pressure of 6 to 7 bar (87 to 100 psi). Our 4Bar initiative aims to reduce this to 4 bar (~58 psi) without sacrificing machine performance.

Lowering the burden on the air compressors reduces end-user electricity consumption by as much as 29%, and represents one of the fastest ways for facility managers to meet Scope 2 carbon emission targets. Reducing pressure in SMC’s own factories has already begun and we work together with customers on-site to provide solutions for system pressure optimization.


4Bar Factory

This diagram illustrates SMC's two-layer strategy to reduce energy waste and improve efficiency in manufacturing facilities.

 

SMC’s Air Management System elevates the 4BAR factory concept by reducing air consumption while equipment is in standby. The system:

  • Provides visualization of production equipment status
  • Is compatible with SMC wireless systems
  • Integrates directly into industrial networks via OPC UA, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, and PROFINET
  • Reduces air consumption by lowering pressure during equipment standby
  • Reduces air consumption by shutting off valves depending on equipment shutdown conditions

Air Saving Equipment

Air Consumption Calculation

Reduce Pressure Loss

Air Blow Efficiency

Local Power Increase and Local Pressure Increase