Reliable safety components for pneumatic systems
SMC’s Safety Pressure Release Valves and Safety Exhaust Valves (ISO 13849-1) are designed to ensure the safe and controlled release of residual pressure in pneumatic systems when de-energised. These valves protect operators and machinery by automatically venting compressed air to atmosphere, preventing unintended movement and maintaining a safe condition during maintenance or emergency stop situations.
All models comply with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC (Article 2 c) and meet the requirements of EN ISO 13849-1 for functional safety. Depending on configuration, they are suitable for safety-related control systems up to Category 4 / Performance Level e. They support applications that require Safe De-energisation (SDE/SVE) or Safe Energisation (SEZ) and include versions with an integrated soft start-up function for controlled system pressurisation.
Different types of Safety Pressure Release Valves offered by SMC
Engineered to meet the most demanding safety requirements, SMC’s Safety Pressure Release Valves provide direct monitoring of the main valve position, enabling easy integration into safety circuits and continuous detection of valve status.
The range includes the following valve types and configurations, certified in accordance with EN ISO 13849-1 and the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC:
Safe Exhaust Valve Modular Connection Type
The VPX400 Series (models VPX406-A3/A4/A6) combines Safety Exhaust, Soft Start, and Monitoring functions in one compact modular unit.
Equipped with dual residual pressure release valves, built-in pressure sensors, and LED fault indication, these valves continuously monitor both pressure status and valve operation.
With flow capacities up to 15,000 l/min (ANR) and compatibility with AC30–AC60 FRL systems, the VPX400 Series meets Categories 3 and 4 (PL e) and offers IP65 protection (depending on pressure gauge/digital switch configuration).
Its modular design enables quick integration into air preparation systems, ensuring compact installation and reliable compliance with functional safety standards.
Single Residual Pressure Release Valve
Models such as the VP542/VP544-X536 (body ported or base mounted) are designed for Category 2 applications.
These valves feature main valve position detection for reliable release of residual pressure in single-channel safety systems.
By detecting inconsistencies between input signals and valve operation, they ensure safe de-energisation and compliance with EN ISO 13849-1 Category 2 requirements.
Dual Residual Pressure Release Valve, 3 Port Solenoid Valve, ISO13849-1
The VP544/VP744-X538 and VG342-X87 models feature a redundant dual-valve design for applications up to Categories 3 and 4 (PL e).
If one valve fails to operate, the other automatically vents the residual pressure, maintaining the safety function.
Their robust 3-port solenoid configuration allows easy integration into safety circuits requiring dual-channel redundancy, ensuring continuous fault tolerance and high diagnostic coverage in safety-critical pneumatic applications.
Dual Residual Pressure Release Valve with Soft Start-up Function, ISO13849-1
For applications requiring gradual pressurisation, SMC offers the VP544/VP744-X555 (0.7 MPa) and VP544/VP744-X585 (1.0 MPa) models.
These include a built-in soft start-up valve with either a fixed or variable throttle (Ø1.0 / Ø1.5 / Ø2.0 mm), providing smooth and controlled air supply during start-up to prevent sudden actuator movement.
This combination of soft start-up and redundant valve design ensures safe energisation and protection of pneumatic components while maintaining full compliance with ISO 13849-1 safety categories.
With robust construction, high flow capacity, and a long service life (B10D up to 10 million cycles), all models deliver consistent performance and high diagnostic coverage.
A selection of safety limit switches (Omron or Rockwell Automation) allows flexible integration into different control architectures, providing compliance and reliability across a wide range of pneumatic safety applications.
Easy integration and full compliance
Compact, modular, and easy to install, SMC’s Safety Pressure Release and Exhaust Valves can be seamlessly connected to FRL units or integrated into existing systems without major modifications. Their modular connection concept supports flexible mounting, quick replacement, and simplified maintenance.
Each valve offers direct position or pressure detection, supporting diagnostics, validation, and fault identification in safety-related control systems. This simplifies compliance with EN ISO 13849-1, EN ISO 4414, and the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, while improving overall system safety and efficiency.
Safe design, proven performance
By incorporating SMC Safety Pressure Release Valves and Safety Exhaust Valves (ISO 13849-1) into your pneumatic systems, you ensure safe energy isolation, protect operators from residual pressure hazards, and guarantee full compliance with international safety standards.
Supported by SMC’s extensive experience in machinery and pneumatic functional safety, these valves deliver reliable performance, energy efficiency, and peace of mind in every safety-critical application.
Our experts are ready to help you design a compliant and efficient pneumatic safety system — contact us to discuss the most suitable Safety Pressure Release Valve options for your application.
