SMC AW40-03BDE-D Modular Filter Regulator, Rc 3/8, N.O. Auto Drain, Embedded Gauge, Bracket
SMCSMC AW40-03BDE-D Modular Filter Regulator - Rc 3/8 with N.O. Auto Drain, Embedded Gauge, and Bracket
The SMC AW40-03BDE-D is a size 40 modular filter regulator from SMC's AW-D series, combining a 5 micron air filter and a relieving-type pressure regulator in a single compact body. Integrating both functions into one unit reduces piping, saves panel space, and simplifies the air preparation stage ahead of valves, cylinders, and other pneumatic components. This configuration ships with a mounting bracket, a normally open (N.O.) float-type auto drain, and a square embedded pressure gauge with limit indicator - a ready-to-install FRL front end for machine builders and maintenance teams.
Pressure is adjustable across a 0.05 to 0.85 MPa setting range, and the relieving design bleeds off downstream pressure when the setpoint is lowered. The polycarbonate bowl is protected by a transparent bowl guard in a two-layer construction, giving full 360 degree visibility of the bowl interior while shielding it from the operating environment.
Key Features
- Integrated filter + regulator: One-body design saves space and requires less piping than separate filter and regulator units
- N.O. float-type auto drain: Drain port is open when the system is unpressurized, automatically discharging accumulated condensate - no manual draining on shutdown
- Square embedded pressure gauge with limit indicator: Flush-mounted gauge keeps the installed footprint tight and the limit indicator makes out-of-range pressure obvious at a glance
- Mounting bracket included: Bracket and set nuts come with the unit for direct wall or frame mounting
- Transparent bowl guard: Two-layer construction protects the polycarbonate bowl while keeping the condensate level visible from any angle
- Easy handling: The pressure adjustment knob is easy to grip when unlocked and push-locks to hold the setpoint
- Modular compatibility: Connects with other SMC AC-D family modular air preparation units of the same body size; panel mounting pitch, brackets, and set nuts remain interchangeable with prior AW series units
Part Number Breakdown: AW40-03BDE-D
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| AW40 | AW-D series filter regulator, body size 40 (without backflow function) |
| 03 | Rc 3/8 port size (Rc taper thread - see thread note below) |
| B | With mounting bracket |
| D | Float-type auto drain, N.O. (normally open - drain port open when pressure is not applied) |
| E | Square embedded type pressure gauge with limit indicator |
| -D | Current AW-D series generation designator |
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Series | SMC AW-D modular type filter regulator |
| Body size | 40 |
| Port size / thread type | Rc 3/8 (Rc taper thread) |
| Set pressure range | 0.05 to 0.85 MPa |
| Exhaust mechanism | Relieving type |
| Flow direction | Left to right |
| Drain | N.O. float-type auto drain with drain cock (suits ø6 x ø4 nylon tube; barb fitting not included) |
| Pressure gauge | Square embedded type with limit indicator, MPa scale |
| Bowl | Polycarbonate with transparent bowl guard |
| Mounting | Bracket and set nuts included |
| Backflow function | Without backflow function (see AW40K-D series for backflow option) |
| Digital pressure switch | Not included on this configuration |
Thread type note: The AW40-03BDE-D uses Rc (taper) threads. If your installation requires 3/8 NPT threads, the equivalent NPT configuration is the SMC AW40-N03BDE-D. Contact Automation Distribution if you need help confirming the correct thread type for your system.
Applications
The AW40-03BDE-D handles compressed air preparation at the point of use in machine tools, packaging lines, assembly and material handling equipment, and general factory automation. The size 40 body suits mid-to-high flow branch circuits feeding banks of directional control valves, air cylinders, grippers, and blow-off nozzles. The N.O. auto drain makes it a strong fit for equipment that cycles on and off daily - condensate discharges automatically each time the system depressurizes, protecting downstream components without adding a maintenance task.
Replacement and Maintenance Parts
SMC lists the following service parts for this filter regulator:
| Part Number | Description |
|---|---|
| AF40P-060S | Filter element |
| AF44P-040S | Baffle |
| AR44P-150AS | Diaphragm assembly |
| AW44P-060AS | Valve assembly |
| AD48-D | Bowl assembly |
| C42FP-260S | Bowl O-ring |
| AR43P-270AS | Bracket assembly |
| GC3-10AS-D | Pressure gauge |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the N.O. auto drain on the AW40-03BDE-D do?
The normally open float-type auto drain keeps the drain port open whenever system pressure is not applied. Condensate collected in the bowl discharges automatically each time the air supply shuts down, so the bowl empties itself as part of the normal machine cycle.
Is the AW40-03BDE-D NPT threaded?
No. The 03 port designation without an N prefix indicates Rc 3/8 taper threads. For 3/8 NPT ports, order the AW40-N03BDE-D instead.
What is the pressure setting range?
The regulator adjusts from 0.05 to 0.85 MPa. The unit is a relieving type, so reducing the setpoint vents excess downstream pressure through the regulator.
Can this unit connect to other SMC air preparation modules?
Yes. The AW-D series is part of SMC's modular air preparation family and joins with other size 40 modular units such as mist separators, lubricators, and pressure switches using SMC spacers and brackets.
Why Buy from Automation Distribution?
Automation Distribution is an authorized SMC distributor supplying pneumatic and air preparation equipment to OEMs, integrators, and maintenance teams. Our technical team can help you confirm thread types, size the right FRL configuration for your flow requirements, and cross-reference discontinued SMC part numbers to current AW-D series equivalents.