The SMC CDRB2BW30-90D is a vane-type pneumatic rotary actuator designed for compact rotational motion in industrial automation systems. It belongs to SMC’s CRB2 series and is commonly selected for indexing, clamping, gate movement, stopper control, and light-duty turning applications where a stable 90-degree rotary stroke is required. The CRB2 platform is widely used because it combines compact dimensions, repeatable motion, and flexible mounting/switch options in one actuator family.
From the model structure shown in the CRB2 series catalog, CDRB2BW30-90D can be decoded as a CDRB2 (auto-switch capable type) / B mounting / W vane configuration / size 30 / 90° rotation / D (double vane) configuration. The CRB2 catalog’s “How to Order” section explicitly shows the coding logic for mounting type, vane type, size, and rotation angle, and lists size 30 among the available options.
This model is a practical choice when the machine designer needs:
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A compact rotary actuator instead of a motor-driven indexing unit
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Pneumatic simplicity and low maintenance
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Stable switching feedback integration
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Flexible port and switch arrangements within the CRB2 family
Key Product Information Table
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | SMC |
| Product Model | CDRB2BW30-90D |
| Product Type | Pneumatic rotary actuator (vane type) |
| Series | CRB2 / CDRB2 family |
| Size | 30 |
| Rotation Angle | 90° |
| Vane Type | Double vane (“D”) |
| Mounting Type | Basic type (“B” in the order code) |
| Auto Switch Compatibility | Yes (CDRB2 series supports auto switch unit configurations) |
| Typical Applications | Rotary indexing, stopper actuation, part positioning, fixture rotation, gate/open-close motion |
| Product Weight | Varies by switch/cable suffix; common configured versions are reported around 0.40–0.46 kg (examples: ~0.41 kg for a T79L variant, ~0.875 lb / ~0.397 kg for an R73 variant). Base code weight may differ depending on configuration. |
Model Code Interpretation (CDRB2BW30-90D)
The CRB2 catalog provides a structured ordering format for this series, which helps engineers identify the main mechanical and functional characteristics directly from the part number. Based on that catalog format, the code can be interpreted as follows:
| Code Segment | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CDRB2 | Rotary actuator with auto-switch compatible unit (CRB2 family) |
| B | Basic mounting type |
| W | Vane-type rotary actuator configuration in the CRB2 order structure |
| 30 | Size 30 body |
| 90 | 90-degree rotation angle |
| D | Double vane type |
This coding is useful for procurement and replacement work because it lets you quickly confirm whether a unit matches the required shaft style, angle, and mounting structure before checking detailed dimensions.
Functional Advantages in Industrial Use
1) Compact Rotary Motion for Tight Spaces
Compared with electric rotary drives, pneumatic vane actuators like the CDRB2BW30-90D are often easier to install in compact fixtures and semi-automatic equipment. They require only compressed air and standard pneumatic control components, which keeps the system architecture simple.
For indexing or open/close motions that do not require servo-level positioning, this actuator can reduce both installation complexity and total system cost.
2) Stable 90° Rotation for Repetitive Mechanisms
The 90-degree rotation format is one of the most common requirements in industrial tooling. It is suitable for:
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Diverter gates
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Part orientation mechanisms
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Clamp arm rotation
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Pneumatic quarter-turn movements
The CRB2 family also supports other rotation options in the series structure (depending on vane type and size), but the 90° double-vane version is often preferred when users want stronger output behavior and stable repeat cycles in a compact rotary package.
3) Auto Switch Support for Position Feedback
One of the practical strengths of the CDRB2 type is compatibility with auto switch units. The CRB2 documentation includes applicable switch information and installation guidance for the CDRB2/CRBU2/CRB1 families, which is useful for PLC-based automation systems that need end-position confirmation.
This matters in production lines where the controller must verify that the actuator has reached the required position before the next step begins.
4) Mature SMC Platform with Broad Application Support
The CRB2 series is a long-established SMC pneumatic rotary actuator platform with cataloged dimensions, switch options, and selection guidance. The series documentation also includes load and inertia selection concepts, which helps engineers verify whether the actuator is suitable for the target mechanism. For example, the CRB2 catalog includes selection examples and allowable-load/inertia references specifically covering CRB2BW/CRBU2W30 usage scenarios.
Typical Application Scenarios
The SMC CDRB2BW30-90D is suitable for a wide range of industrial automation and equipment-building tasks, including:
| Industry / Equipment | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Assembly automation | Rotary positioning of components before fastening or inspection |
| Packaging machinery | Deflector gates, flap switching, product lane change |
| Fixture and tooling | Clamp arm rotation and part-stop motion |
| Material handling | Simple pick-and-place orientation turns |
| Process equipment | Quarter-turn pneumatic actuation in compact stations |
Its main advantage is not ultra-high precision, but reliable pneumatic rotary motion with a compact footprint and strong compatibility with common pneumatic circuits.
Why It Is a Good Choice for Replacement or New Design
If you are selecting a rotary actuator for a machine that already uses SMC pneumatic components, the CDRB2BW30-90D is usually a low-risk choice because:
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The CRB2 family is well-documented and widely recognized in industrial maintenance channels.
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Size 30 / 90° is a mainstream configuration for general rotary tasks.
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Auto switch support simplifies signal feedback integration.
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Pneumatic operation is straightforward for maintenance teams already familiar with FRL + solenoid valve systems.
For replacement projects, always confirm:
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Shaft dimensions and mounting dimensions
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Rotation angle (90° must match the original mechanism)
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Required torque and inertia load
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Auto switch type and cable length
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Port direction and installation space
The CRB2 catalog includes dimensional and selection references that are useful during this check.
SEO-Friendly Summary
SMC CDRB2BW30-90D is a compact pneumatic rotary vane actuator in the CRB2 series, designed for 90-degree double-vane rotary motion in industrial automation equipment. It supports auto switch configurations for position feedback, making it suitable for assembly fixtures, packaging systems, indexing mechanisms, and pneumatic quarter-turn applications. Typical configured-unit net weight is around 0.40 to 0.46 kg, depending on the switch and cable suffix. For engineering selection, users should verify torque, inertia, shaft dimensions, and mounting compatibility against the CRB2 series catalog.
