An air-to-electronic (A/E) converter turns the back-pressure from an air plug, ring or snap gage into a digital reading, so air gaging can feed a multi-gage display, a PC for SPC, or a PLC on an automated line. We supply Metro M-Bus modules that do this, and they work with air tooling of any brand.
See the MB-AG moduleM-Bus brochure (PDF)
Three ways to get air gage data out
| You want | Use | How it connects |
|---|---|---|
| A bench readout with data output, 1 or 2 air circuits | Metro M5 Air or Air Gage Pro | Air goes straight into the display; USB and RS232 out |
| Many circuits on one screen | Metro M400 + MB-AG modules | One MB-AG per air circuit, up to 99 inputs, with SPC and PLC I/O |
| Air gaging on a PC or PLC | MB-AG modules + an M-Bus master | MB-RS (RS232/USB, Modbus RTU), MB-IP (Ethernet, Modbus TCP) or FMB-PLC (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT) |
The MB-AG air gage module
- Connects one air circuit (plug, ring or snap gage of any brand) to the M-Bus network
- 2- or 3-point calibration, with a filter function for a stable reading
- Chain modules for multi-diameter gages; each circuit gets its own module
- DIN-rail aluminum housing for panels and machine enclosures
- Needs clean, regulated air and a restrictor set; see filter-regulators
Build out the network with M-Bus modules for LVDT and half-bridge probes, digital instruments, I/O, relays and temperature.
Replacing an older transducer?
If you're running an older air-to-electronic transducer that's no longer supported, an MB-AG module is the usual replacement. Tell us what you have now and what it connects to, and we'll recommend the modules and master.
Questions
Does the MB-AG work with my air tooling?
Yes. It works with Dual Master air plugs, rings and snap gages from any maker. You calibrate it with your masters, the same way you set any air gage.
Can I send air gage readings to a PLC?
Yes. Connect MB-AG modules to an M-Bus master for Modbus RTU or Modbus TCP, or to an FMB-PLC master for EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT or CC-Link.
How many air circuits can I connect?
An M400 display handles up to 99 inputs. Each air circuit uses one MB-AG module.