Out with the Old, In with the D: Your SMC Air Regulator Replacement Guide

If you’re using SMC’s AR-A or AR-B Series air regulators, consider this your official heads-up: these trusted products are being phased out. SMC will wrap up production by the end of March 2025, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

But no need to stress—a better solution is already here.

Meet the SMC AR-D series, a next-generation SMC air regulator replacement designed to keep up with the evolving demands of modern industrial environments. Whether you're replacing aging equipment or planning your next system build, now's the perfect time to explore how the AR-D Series can upgrade your air preparation setup. 

In this blog post, we will break down the key differences between the outgoing AR-A and AR-B series, explain why SMC is phasing them out, and highlight the features that make the AR-D series the ideal replacement. Plus, we’ll share why it’s smart to plan your transition now—before the production of legacy models comes to an end. Let’s get into it! 

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Why Is SMC Phasing Out the A and B Series? | What’s the Difference Between the Dash A, B, and D Series? | Why Upgrade to the SMC AR-D Series Now? | Don’t Wait—Plan Your Air Regulator Replacement Today | Have Questions? | Additional Resources 

👉 Ready to upgrade? Shop & Configure the SMC AR-D Series NOW!

Why Is SMC Phasing Out the A and B Series?

The SMC AR-A and AR-B series phase-out is part of a larger effort to modernize SMC’s entire Air Preparation (FRL) product line. The new AC-D family, which includes modular filter, regulator, and lubricator (FRL) units, is designed to improve performance, simplify maintenance, and deliver a more modern appearance.

Five key upgrades include:

What’s the Difference Between the Dash A, B, and D Series?

Choosing the right air regulator starts with understanding how each series compares. As SMC phases out the AR-A and AR-B Series, it’s helpful to see how these legacy products stack up next to the new and improved AR-D Series. Here's a quick breakdown of what each offers:

AR-A Series (Retiring)

AR-B Series (Retiring)

✅ Max set pressure: 125 psi

AR-D Series (Your Replacement)

🌟 Max set pressure: 125 psi

If you're planning an SMC air regulator replacement, the SMC AR-D series is designed to make the switch seamless. It offers the same (or better) performance as previous models with added ease of use and flexibility.

Why Upgrade to the SMC AR-D Series Now?

Still wondering if now is the right time to make the switch? With the phase-out deadline fast approaching and replacement parts for the A and B series becoming harder to find, it’s smart to plan ahead. Upgrading to the SMC AR-D series isn’t just about staying current—it’s about improving your entire air preparation process.

Here’s why it makes sense to upgrade today:

✔️ Stay ahead of the SMC AR-B series phase-out: Don't wait until you're left scrambling for obsolete parts.

✔️ Reduce maintenance time: Transparent bowl guards, simplified element changes, and ergonomic designs make service faster and easier.

✔️ Get a modern look and feel:  With its clean urban white finish and sleeker design, the SMC AR-D series doesn’t just work well; it looks good doing it.

✔️ Futureproof your systems: Standard features like integrated gauges and pressure switches make your SMC air regulator replacement a long-term win.

Don’t Wait—Plan Your Air Regulator Replacement Today

With the SMC AR-A and AR-B series phase-out deadline approaching, now is the time to plan your transition to the SMC AR-D series. Whether you need help selecting the right replacement, want to schedule a demo, or are ready to place an order, we’re here to help.

Have Questions?

We’re always here to talk air prep solutions. Reach out today and let us help you keep your systems running at their best with the SMC AR-D series.