SMC AFF8C-N04D Main Line Filter, 1/2" NPT, 3 Micron, N.O. Auto-Drain
SMC
$213.40
The SMC AFF8C-N04D is a size 8 main line air filter with 1/2" NPT ports, a 3 micron nominal particulate rating, and a normally open (N.O.) float-type auto-drain. As part of SMC's AFF main line filter series, it serves as the first stage in a compressed air purification scheme, removing bulk foreign matter and liquid droplets to protect downstream equipment.
It is a strong pre-filter choice ahead of a refrigerated dryer, where it helps prevent fouling of the dryer's heat exchanger, and it extends the service life of finer coalescing and precision filters downstream. The serviceable design lets you dispose of the dirty element by handling only the filter bowl, and the built-in element service indicator signals when replacement is due.
Replacing a legacy unit? The AFF8C-N04D is a direct, drop-in replacement for the SMC AFF8B-N04D. See crossover details below.
Key Specifications
| Model | AFF8C-N04D |
| Series | AFF Main Line Filter |
| Body Size | 8 |
| Port Size | 1/2" NPT |
| Filtration Rating | 3 micron (nominal) |
| Rated Flow | 1500 L/min (ANR) |
| Operating Pressure Range | 0.1 to 1.0 MPa (15 to 145 psi) |
| Proof Pressure | 1.5 MPa |
| Drain Type | N.O. (normally open) float-type auto-drain |
| Ambient / Fluid Temperature | 5 to 60°C (41 to 140°F) |
| Bowl Material | Polycarbonate |
| Element Service Indicator | Included |
| Replacement Element | AFF-EL8B |
Part Number Breakdown: AFF8C-N04D
| AFF | AFF main line filter series |
| 8 | Body size 8 |
| C | Current body style (supersedes the older "-B" style) |
| N | NPT thread type |
| 04 | 1/2" port size |
| D | N.O. (normally open) float-type auto-drain |
Typical Applications
- Pre-filter ahead of a refrigerated air dryer to protect the heat exchanger from fouling
- First-stage particulate and droplet removal in a compressed air purification train
- Protecting downstream coalescing and precision filters to extend their element life
- General main line air preparation for pneumatic and automation equipment
Replacement Element
The service element for the AFF8C-N04D is the AFF-EL8B. The element service indicator on the unit signals when the element is approaching the end of its useful life, so you can schedule replacement before pressure drop affects the line.
Replacing an AFF8B-N04D
SMC progressively transitioned the older "-B" suffix main line filter bodies to the current "-C" series while keeping mounting dimensions and the connection interface consistent. For the 1/2" NPT size 8 unit, the AFF8C-N04D is the direct successor to the AFF8B-N04D:
|
Legacy Part
AFF8B-N04D
Older "-B" body style
|
→ |
Current Replacement
AFF8C-N04D
Current "-C" body style
|
The retrofit interface is unchanged, so it drops into an existing AFF8B-N04D installation without pipe or bracket modifications:
- Same 1/2" NPT connection and port spacing
- Same normally open float auto-drain behavior
- Same 3 micron nominal first-stage filtration role
- Same bowl-serviceable element design
Note: the AFF8C uses the AFF-EL8B replacement element. If you are transitioning a fleet of older units, standardize your spares inventory on the AFF-EL8B going forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the filtration rating of the AFF8C-N04D?
The AFF main line filter is a coarse, first-stage filter with a 3 micron nominal particulate rating. It removes bulk foreign matter and liquid droplets to protect downstream dryers and finer filters.
What does the "D" mean in AFF8C-N04D?
The "D" specifies a normally open (N.O.) float-type auto-drain. The drain port is open when the line is not pressurized and closes under pressure, discharging accumulated condensate automatically.
Which replacement element does it use?
The AFF8C-N04D uses the AFF-EL8B replacement element.
Is the AFF8C-N04D a direct replacement for the AFF8B-N04D?
Yes. The AFF8C-N04D is the current-generation successor to the AFF8B-N04D. It keeps the same 1/2" NPT port size, the same normally open float auto-drain, and the same physical mounting envelope, so it drops into an existing AFF8B-N04D installation without pipe or bracket modifications.
What is the difference between AFF8B and AFF8C?
The "-C" designation is the current SMC body style for the size 8 AFF main line filter, superseding the older "-B" style. Filtration role, port size, and drain behavior are consistent between the two.
The SMC AFF8C-N04D is distributed by Automation Distribution, an authorized SMC distributor. For application help, cross-references from legacy AFF part numbers, or quantity pricing, contact our team at 1-888-600-3080.
- Size:
- 8
- Thread Type:
- NPT
- Port Size:
- 1/2
- Accessory:
- None
- Auto Drain:
- N.O.(Normally Open) Drain Port Is Open When Pressure Is Not Applied
- Rubber Material:
- Standard
- Fluid:
- Standard
- Drain Guide:
- -
- Flow Direction:
- Flow Direction: Left To Right
- Pressure Switch?Element Service Indicator:
- -
- Grease:
- Standard
- Made To Order:
- Standard
