Bantam Series Port Sizes 1/8" & 1/4"; Flow to 22 scfm (623 l/min)

Product Overview

The ROSS Controls Bantam Series is a modular Filter Regulator Lubricator (FRL) platform offering individual filter, regulator, and lubricator units that can be assembled in any combination to meet specific air preparation requirements. Unlike the combined FRL combo series (139-144), the series provides separate modular components that mount together without external pipe fittings, giving system designers the flexibility to configure exactly the functions required at each point of use.

The filter unit is available with high-strength polycarbonate plastic bowls or aluminum bowls and can be specified with an internal automatic drain or manual drain. The regulator unit offers a choice of piston-type or diaphragm-type design, in both self-relieving and non-relieving configurations, with an integral pressure gauge for continuous output pressure monitoring. The lubricator unit uses a wick-feed design for passive, low-maintenance oil delivery to downstream pneumatic components.

Port options include standard threaded ports (1/8" or 1/4") and quick-connect push-in fittings for tubing up to 10 mm in outer diameter. The quick-connect fitting option enables tool-free tubing connection and disconnection, significantly accelerating installation and simplifying future maintenance, particularly in flexible manufacturing cells and robotic installations where tubing is frequently reconfigured.

The modular nature of the Bantam Series allows individual components to be replaced without disturbing the remaining sections, and allows the addition of new sections as system requirements evolve. This makes the series the preferred choice for applications requiring the ability to independently reconfigure, upgrade, or service individual air preparation functions within the same mounting footprint.

Key Engineering Features

• Individual Modular Components - Filter, regulator, and lubricator are separate modular units that connect directly without external pipe fittings, allowing any functional combination to be assembled and individually serviced or replaced.
• Threaded Ports or Quick-Connect Fittings - Available with 1/8" or 1/4" threaded ports, or push-in quick-connect fittings for tubing up to 10 mm OD, enabling rapid tool-free tubing installation and disconnection.
• Piston-Type or Diaphragm-Type Regulator - Piston regulator provides robust pressure control for high-cycle applications; diaphragm regulator offers low hysteresis and fine pressure sensitivity for instrumentation and precision circuits.
• Self-Relieving or Non-Relieving Regulator - Self-relieving design vents excess downstream pressure when the set point is lowered; non-relieving retains downstream pressure for systems where atmospheric exhaust is not permitted.
• Wick-Feed Lubricator - Passive wick-feed design delivers consistent oil mist without a sight dome, with external adjustment control for oil delivery rate.
• Polycarbonate or Aluminum Bowl - Polycarbonate bowl provides visual condensate level monitoring, rated to 150 psig and 125 degrees F; aluminum bowl extends capability to 200 psig and 150 degrees F for higher-pressure or temperature environments.
• Internal Automatic or Manual Drain - Automatic drain continuously removes condensate from the filter bowl without operator action; manual drain provides deliberate maintenance-interval drainage.
• Integral Pressure Gauge on Regulator - Pressure gauge included standard on the regulator unit provides continuous visual indication of regulated output pressure.

Technical Specifications

General Specifications

Certifications & Compliance

Typical Applications & Industries

Flexible Manufacturing and Robotics

• Flexible manufacturing cells with frequently reconfigured pneumatic circuits, where the quick-connect fitting option of the series allows rapid tubing changes without tools during cell changeover.
• Industrial robot air preparation panels where individual modular sections can be replaced during scheduled maintenance without disturbing the remaining FRL units.
• Collaborative robot (cobot) tool change systems where a lightweight, modular FRL assembly at the robot base conditions air for tool-side pneumatics at 1/8" or 1/4" connections.
• Automated guided vehicle (AGV) and mobile robot pneumatic circuits where modular FRL components can be specified individually to match weight and envelope constraints.

Assembly and Test Equipment

• Pneumatic test fixture air preparation where filter-only, filter-regulator, or filter-regulator-lubricator configurations can be assembled from the same modular platform to match each fixture's specific requirements.
• Assembly line air drops where the quick-connect fitting option allows tools and fixtures to be connected and disconnected rapidly by operators without plumbing knowledge.
• Laboratory and R&D equipment requiring reconfigurable air preparation that can be modified as test requirements change without replacing the entire FRL assembly.

Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing

• PCB assembly machine pneumatic preparation at 1/8" connection points where modular filter and regulator units without lubricator are assembled where lubrication of the air stream is not acceptable.
• Semiconductor fab equipment cleanroom pneumatic circuits where individual modular sections can be replaced during PM windows without disconnecting tubing from adjacent units.
• Electronic test handler pneumatic circuits requiring clean, precisely regulated air with the option to add or remove the lubricator module based on downstream component requirements.

Packaging and Consumer Products

• Small-format packaging machine air circuits where the Bantam Series modular assembly is configured as filter-regulator only for non-lubricated sections and filter-regulator-lubricator for actuator supply circuits, all from the same modular platform.
• Consumer goods assembly lines where quick-connect fittings enable rapid tooling changes at pneumatic supply points without shutting down the supply line for reconnection.
• Pharmaceutical and cosmetics packaging equipment where individual modular sections can be sanitized or replaced independently during cleaning validation intervals.

Machine Maintenance and Upgrade

• Legacy machine air system upgrades where adding a modular lubricator unit to an existing filter-regulator assembly upgrades air conditioning capability without replacing the entire FRL.
• Maintenance shops and toolrooms where the modular Series allows individual sections to be stocked as service parts rather than complete FRL assemblies.
• Field service applications where quick-connect fittings allow replacement of individual FRL sections without special tools or tubing preparation equipment.

OEM and Custom Machine Building

• OEM machine builders specifying a single modular platform across all air preparation points on a machine, enabling standardized spare parts and simplified service procedures.
• Custom machinery with varying air quality requirements at different supply points, where the filter-only, filter-regulator, or complete FRL configuration is assembled from the same Series modular units.
• Control panel builders integrating modular FRL assemblies in compact enclosures where the ability to replace individual sections without disturbing adjacent components reduces downtime.

Ordering and Model Number Configuration

The ROSS Bantam Series is ordered by selecting the specific modular units required (filter, regulator, lubricator) and specifying port type (threaded or quick-connect), bowl material, drain type, regulator type, and regulator function. Contact ROSS Controls at (800) 438-7677 or visit rosscontrols.com to configure and generate model numbers for each individual section.

The Bantam Series allows individual modular sections to be ordered separately. Specify each unit type (filter, regulator, lubricator), port type (threaded or quick-connect), bowl material, drain type (filter), and regulator type and function.

NPT thread is standard. G (BSPP) thread availability should be confirmed with ROSS Controls.

Quick-connect fitting versions accept push-in tubing up to 10 mm OD. Verify tubing outer diameter before specifying quick-connect port option.

End plates and modular tie rods are required to assemble multiple units. Confirm complete assembly kit requirements with ROSS Controls.

For a pre-configured combined FRL assembly, refer to the ROSS Controls 139 Bantam Series FRL combo.

Accessories

Modular Assembly End Plates and Tie Rods

End plates, tie rods, and port plugs are required to assemble multiple modular Bantam Series units into a complete manifold. Contact ROSS Controls for compatible assembly kit model numbers.

Mounting Brackets

Panel and pipe mounting brackets for the Bantam Series modular assembly are available to secure the completed FRL unit to machine frames, panels, or pipe stands.

Replacement Filter Elements

Replacement filter elements are available for the modular filter unit to maintain rated filtration efficiency. Replace on a scheduled interval or when elevated differential pressure is observed.

Replacement Bowls and Seals

Replacement polycarbonate and aluminum bowls with associated seals are available as service parts for filter and lubricator sections of the Bantam Series.

Related Products & Accessories

• 139 Bantam Series FRL Combo - Pre-configured Filter/Regulator and Lubricator combo in the Bantam platform for applications where a single integrated unit is preferred over individual modular sections. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/139-bantam-series
• 62 Bantam Series Integrated Filter/Regulator - Compact integrated filter/regulator in the Bantam platform for applications not requiring lubrication. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/62-bantam-series
• 104 Bantam Series Lubricator - Standalone Bantam Series modular wick-feed lubricator for use where only lubrication is required at a given supply point. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/104-bantam-series
• 140 Miniature Series FRL Combo - Miniature Series pre-configured Filter/Regulator and Lubricator combo for similar port sizes. https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/140-miniature-series
• 141 Mid-Size Series FRL Combo - Mid-Size FRL combo for higher flow requirements at port sizes 1/4" to 1/2". https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/series/141-mid-size-series

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How is the Bantam Series different from the 139 Bantam Series FRL combo?

A: The 139 Bantam Series is a pre-configured combined FRL assembly in a single inline housing. The Bantam Series provides individual modular filter, regulator, and lubricator units that interconnect without external pipe fittings, giving the designer the ability to specify exactly the functions needed, to omit functions not required, and to replace or reconfigure individual sections independently.

Q: What port sizes are available?

A: The Bantam Series is available in 1/8" and 1/4" port sizes. Quick-connect fitting versions accept push-in tubing up to 10 mm outer diameter.

Q: What is the maximum rated flow?

A: The Bantam Series is rated for maximum flow of 22 scfm (623 l/min).

Q: What are the quick-connect fitting options?

A: Quick-connect fitting versions accept push-in tubing with outer diameters up to 10 mm. The push-in design allows tool-free tubing insertion and removal, enabling rapid reconfiguration of pneumatic circuits without plumbing tools.

Q: Can I assemble a filter-regulator only, without a lubricator?

A: Yes. The modular design allows any combination of filter, regulator, and lubricator units. A filter-regulator combination without the lubricator module is fully valid for applications where lubrication of downstream components is not required or not permitted.

Q: Can I add a lubricator to an existing modular assembly later?

A: Yes. The modular nature of the series allows a lubricator unit to be added to an existing filter-regulator assembly without replacing the existing sections. Confirm compatible assembly hardware (tie rods and end plates) with ROSS Controls.

Q: What bowl materials are available?

A: Both filter and lubricator units are available with polycarbonate bowls (150 psig, 125 degrees F) or aluminum bowls (200 psig, 150 degrees F). Polycarbonate provides visual level monitoring; aluminum extends pressure and temperature capability.

Q: What drain options are available on the filter unit?

A: The filter unit is available with internal automatic drain, which continuously removes condensate without operator action, or manual drain, which requires the operator to open the drain valve.

Q: What regulator types are available?

A: The regulator unit is available as a piston-type for high-cycle durability and stable pressure control, or a diaphragm-type for low hysteresis and precise pressure sensitivity.

Q: What does the wick-feed lubricator do?

A: The wick-feed lubricator passively draws petroleum-based oil from the bowl and delivers it as a fine mist into the downstream air stream at a rate set by the external adjustment control. This lubricates pneumatic actuators, cylinders, and tools to reduce wear and extend service life.

Q: What is the difference between self-relieving and non-relieving regulators?

A: A self-relieving regulator vents excess downstream pressure to atmosphere through the exhaust port when the set point is lowered. A non-relieving regulator retains downstream pressure and does not vent to atmosphere. Non-relieving is specified for closed systems where atmospheric exhaust is not acceptable.

Q: What lubricant should be used?

A: Use petroleum-based oil with ISO 32 viscosity or lighter. Do not use synthetic ester-based or phosphate-ester lubricants, which are incompatible with the standard nitrile seals used in the assembly.

Q: How is the regulated output pressure set?

A: On the regulator unit, pull the adjustment knob upward to release the lock, rotate clockwise to increase pressure or counterclockwise to decrease, observe the output pressure on the integral gauge, then push the knob down to lock the setting.

Q: Do I need special assembly hardware to connect the modules?

A: Yes. Modular assemblies require end plates, tie rods, and port plugs to hold the individual sections together and seal the inter-unit ports. Contact ROSS Controls for the correct assembly kit model number for the selected number and type of sections.

Q: Where can I get product documentation and model numbers?

A: Catalogs, data sheets, and installation instructions for the Bantam Series are available at rosscontrols.com. Contact ROSS Controls at (800) 438-7677 for complete model number configuration and assembly kit selection.

Installation & Maintenance Guidelines

• Assemble modular units using the appropriate end plates, tie rods, and port plugs. Ensure all mating faces are clean and seating surfaces are undamaged before assembly.
• Torque tie rod nuts to the value specified in the installation instructions. Do not overtighten, which can crack the body or bowl threads.
• Orient the assembly with bowls pointing downward for proper condensate collection and drainage in the filter unit.
• Align the flow direction arrow on each unit with the compressed air supply flow direction.
• For threaded port installations, apply thread sealant and tighten to the specified torque.
• For quick-connect tubing installations, cut tubing squarely and insert to the full depth of the fitting. Verify retention by gently pulling the tubing before pressurizing.
• Confirm that supply inlet pressure does not exceed 150 psig for polycarbonate bowls or 200 psig for aluminum bowls.
• Confirm that ambient and air temperature remain within the rated range for the selected bowl material.
• Fill the lubricator bowl with petroleum-based ISO 32 or lighter oil before first use.
• Pressurize slowly after assembly and check all connections, bowl seals, inter-unit mating faces, and drain valves with leak detection solution.
• Set regulated output pressure by pulling the regulator knob up, adjusting to the target reading on the integral gauge, and pushing down to lock.
• Drain the filter bowl regularly. Verify automatic drain function at each maintenance inspection.
• Monitor lubricator oil level and refill before it reaches the minimum mark.
• Replace the filter element on schedule or when elevated differential pressure is observed.

Warranty & Global Support

ROSS Controls provides a one-year warranty on all products covering defects in material and workmanship from the date of purchase.

Technical support is available through ROSS Controls USA at (800) 438-7677 or by visiting rosscontrols.com.

Global support is available through ROSS offices in the USA (Ferndale, Michigan headquarters), Canada, Brazil, Germany, France, United Kingdom, India, China, and Japan.

Contact ROSS Controls at (800) 438-7677 or visit rosscontrols.com for product configuration, assembly kit selection, replacement parts, and distributor referral.

Download Catalog: https://www.rosscontrols.com/en/documents