April 2016System Integration & Control Systems Design
In response to increasing demand for integrated vacuum generation systems, SMC has launched its new Series ZHP vacuum pad with ejector. An energy-efficient single compact unit, the ZHP can be easily mounted in confined spaces due to its innovative design that removes the need for further components, making it simple to order and maintain.
The vacuum unit features an innovative lock-plate structure that allows easy one-touch replacement of the pad. This means that pads can be easily attached and detached for disposal, thereby minimising maintenance. The use of an enhanced two-stage ejector improves vacuum generation efficiency, delivering an increase in suction flow rate of 50% and a reduction in air consumption of 30%.
Brian Abbott, product manager at SMC Pneumatics South Africa, says that the ZHP Series has been designed to make life as simple as possible for SMC’s customers. “Thanks to its innovative design and ease of use, we have achieved this and more, and initial feedback from our customers has been very positive,” he adds. According to Abbott, the ZHP offers a trio of vacuum port locations which provide a variety of connections for other equipment such as pressure sensors and creates the opportunity for daisy-chain piping, allowing for multiple devices to be connected in sequence, thereby reducing piping requirements.
The ZHP has further design qualities, including a through-hole silencer that significantly reduces noise levels and the risk of clogging. To improve its life span and reduce the risk of contamination, SMC has also included a strainer that prevents foreign matter from entering the pad suction port. The ZHP can be adapted for a range of applications, making it ideal for a variety of uses including robot handling in palletising, sheet metal working in the automotive industry or case packers.
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