What Is the Right Suction Gripper for Your Tool?

In today's automated industrial landscape, suction grippers have become a crucial component in various processes, from packaging to machine maintenance and assembly. As the demand for precision and efficiency grows, choosing the right suction gripper becomes paramount.

When it comes to suction grippers, one size does not fit all. Different applications require varied shapes, sizes, and materials. Understanding your specific needs is the first step towards selecting the most suitable suction gripper.

Types of Suction Grippers

• Standard Suction Grippers: Ideal for flat, slightly curved, and domed surfaces, they offer quick response time and stability. Their low profile and small internal volume make them suitable for smooth or slightly rough workpieces like glass, metal, and plastic parts.

• Bellows Suction Grippers: They are excellent for handling angled, domed, round, large surfaces, and flexible workpieces. Their ability to compensate for uneven surfaces makes them a great choice for delicate items like glass bottles or lightbulbs.

• Elliptical Suction Grippers: Perfect for elongated, elliptical workpieces like profiles and pipes, they generate more force than standard circular grippers despite their smaller size.

• Deep Suction Grippers: These are a compromise between standard and bellows grippers, suitable for quick handling of round and domed workpieces.

Material Considerations

The material of the suction gripper is also crucial in ensuring its effectiveness and durability. Common materials include:

• Nitrile Rubber (NBR): Ideal for oily workpieces with even surfaces.

• Antistatic Nitrile Rubber: Suitable for handling electronic components.

• Silicone Rubber: Preferred for food-grade applications due to its impressive temperature range and FDA approval for direct contact with food and drugs.

• Polyurethane (PU): Ideal for rough surfaces like wood or stone due to its high abrasion resistance.

• Viton (Fluorocarbon Rubber): Simple choice for industrial high-temperature applications requiring excellent chemical resistance.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right suction gripper involves a thorough understanding of your application's requirements. Factors like workpiece size, shape, surface roughness, temperature range, and the presence of chemicals or oils must be considered when evaluating the performance of the suction gripper. At AIRBEST, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide customized suction gripping solutions tailored to our clients' specific needs.

In conclusion, finding the perfect suction gripper for your tool requires a detailed assessment of your application's requirements. By considering factors like workpiece characteristics, material compatibility, and environmental conditions, you can ensure that your suction gripper performs optimally, enhancing your automation process's efficiency and reliability.