New SMC vacuum gripper takes hold of efficient palletising
New from SMC is the ZGS compact and efficient all-in-one vacuum gripping system. Offering seamless integration with both industrial and collaborative robots, the precise control and integrated design of ZGS series vacuum grippers make for reliable performance in a host of palletising and de-palletising applications.
The all-in-one configuration overcomes existing industry issues such as decentralised peripherals and complex installation to facilitate a reduction in the time necessary for commissioning and maintenance tasks. SMC’s integrated ZGS vacuum gripper includes an ejector assembly, foam, supply valve, release valve and pressure switch, making it ready for immediate use via an M8 connector and a supply of compressed air.
A compact and lightweight design is another attribute. A height measurement of just 75 mm (with 20 mm thick foam) and weight of only 3.9 kg further supports ease of installation and system efficiency.
Versatile and modular
Although compact in dimensions, the impressive foam size of 400 x 240 mm provides ample suction area for the secure gripping of various objects. Integral springs provide enhanced gripping capabilities for workpieces of different sizes and orientations, including vertical. Many conventional vacuum grippers are unable to handle workpieces at angles greater than 45° (vertical gripping), prompting the need for layout modifications or extra stations.
The ZGS series is also modular, allowing customisation based on specific application requirements to avoid solution oversizing. Optimal performance arrives by selecting the number of ejector assemblies to match the desired suction flow rate and compensate for any leakage from the foam pad.
Save energy (and money)
A further benefit is the new vacuum gripper’s efficient operation and energy-saving credentials. Optimised for efficient operation in the common vacuum pressure range of -50 kPa or less, its refined design serves to minimise the consumption of compressed air. Compared with SMC's existing ZL6H model, the ZGS series demonstrates 15% lower air consumption.
Notably, users can take advantage of the vacuum gripper’s ability to monitor the process via special port switches that detect pressure inside the baseplate and the foam. The combination of these two pressure monitoring switches allows the user to know whether a workpiece has been lifted insecurely or even dropped.
The ZGS series of all-in-one vacuum grippers from SMC offers extensive adaptability via plug and play mounting, not just with industrial robots, but also a number of popular collaborative robots (cobots). Compatible cobot manufacturers include Universal Robots, FANUC, Yaskawa and OMRON/Techman.
Discover more on SMC´s ZGS in our digital catalogue.
Nov 1, 2024
