Cost effective setup for the packaging industry
April 2012
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Tectra Automation has launched the Schmalz innovative modular system for fast, easy and cost effective setup of vacuum end effectors (VEEs) for the packaging industry. “The modular system makes for fast and flexible gripper configurations for pick-and-place processes and can be used in case packers, carton and tray erecting machines, top and side loading machines, as well as in packaging machines with frequent format changes,” says Erika Bennion, divisional manager, Tectra Automation, South Africa.
The VEE modular system allows for minimum configurations with one suction pad (gripper size 38x38 mm, maximum gripper weight 60 g). The largest configurable VEE comes with 12 suction pads at variable distances, depending on the application, and a maximum gripper size of 300x200 mm at a weight of 800 g.
“The VEE is capable of handling loads up to 2000 g regardless of the type of product it is handling, which means it is able to meet the requirements of the fast pick-and-place processes in the packaging industry,” notes Bennion.
Gripper change-over times are kept to a minimum thanks to the standard quick-change adapter. Another feature is the hoseless vacuum distribution within the system, which reduces possible leakage and ensures greater efficiency and faster response times.
In order to ensure that the system is best suited to the user’s requirements, there are a variety of suction pads to choose from, depending on the packaging requirements. The SGNP flat suction pad for handling fragile foil and blister packaging, the SPF flat suction pad for handling stable cardboard boxes, the SPB4 bellows suction pad for handling filled bags or flow wrap packaging and the FSG bellow suction pad for various packaging applications.
A wide selection vacuum feed, zone connection elements and suction pad connection combinations provide system integrators and machine builders with the option to set up or reconfigure flexible end effectors. “All VEE elements are made of FDA-compliant polysulfone (PSU), are resistant to alkaline and acidic cleaning agents and can be steam sterilised. This makes them suitable not only for the packaging industry, but especially for the food production industry,” concludes Bennion.
Schmalz offers a 120-piece VEE starter kit that includes all components for setup of up to two end effectors, including suction pads and manual quick-change coupler with bayonet fastener, allowing customers to test the system on their own lines.
For more information contact Erika Bennion, Tectra Automation, +27 (0)11 971 9400, [email protected], www.tectra.co.za
Further reading:
How laser cladding delivers 33% more life and maximum ROI in hydraulic cylinders
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
By utilising advanced laser cladding, Honingcraft can help clients achieve a 33% longer life from their components, ensuring they secure the maximum return on their investment.
Read more...
Identifying signs of hydraulic cylinder wear and tear
CT Hydraulics (Nqoba)
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Recognising the early warning signs of hydraulic cylinder degradation is crucial for preventing costly downtime, ensuring operator safety and maximising the lifespan of your hydraulic systems.
Read more...
Integrated Air Solutions opens Pinetown branch
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Integrated Air Solutions has opened a branch in Pinetown, bringing world-class diesel and electric air compressor services closer to customers in KwaZulu-Natal.
Read more...
Cartridge-style flowmeter
Axiom Hydraulics
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Sun’s new cartridge-style flowmeter QMEH delivers precise, real-time flow measurements for demanding hydraulic applications. Using a custom-built, state-of-the-art sensor, the QMEH accurately detects flow and converts the electrical signal into a proportional flow rate.
Read more...
Robust sensors for pneumatic applications
ifm - South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The pressure sensors from ifm have a G1/8 process connection, combined with a welded thin-film measuring cell. While offering an unbeatable price/performance ratio, this technology provides for high measuring accuracy in a very compact and robust housing.
Read more...
A guide to common hydraulic system contaminants
CT Hydraulics (Nqoba)
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Every engineer, machine designer and maintenance professional understands that the heart of any reliable hydraulic system is its fluid. But the moment that fluid is compromised, your system’s life expectancy and your peace of mind drop dramatically.
Read more...
Compressed air piping design
Artic Driers International
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
When designing a compressed air pipeline, remember that size matters. The internal size of the pipe, along with the pressure and air volume, determine the velocity of the compressed air in the pipeline.
Read more...
Tuning into what your system is telling you
Hydrasales
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydraulic presses can run like clockwork, but often it’s the things you don’t see, or hear, that carry the most telling signs of irregular system health.
Read more...
Direct-controlled seat valve
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
A new direct-controlled seat valve enables storage-free, load-tight holding functions in dynamic linear units without an additional control pressure supply, and offers significant advantages over classic, pilot-controlled solutions, particularly in stationary and servo hydraulics.
Read more...
Gauge maintenance for shutdown
SA Gauge
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As the year winds down, many plants across South Africa prepare for the annual shutdown. It’s also the perfect opportunity to give your pressure and temperature gauges the attention they deserve.
Read more...
printer friendly version