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:
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...
Seven years of uninterrupted service
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
A set of hydraulically operated Corflex pinch valves, installed in 2018 at a major North African gold mine, has delivered in one of the continent’s most demanding slurry-handling applications.
Read more...
Controlling pneumatics via IO-Link
ifm - South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Pneumatic airboxes control cylinders or actuators using compressed air, and are found in a wide range of industrial applications.
Read more...
Counterweight balancing in industrial robots
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydraulics specialist, WEBER-HYDRAULIK is equipping KUKA robots with a hydraulic cylinder with an integrated pressure accumulator, which absorbs and balances the forces generated on the arm.
Read more...
How manufacturers achieve zero-leakage demands in hydraulic cylinders
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Imagine a world where your hydraulic cylinders never leaked. The answer lies in a holistic approach that focuses on the fundamental components and their interactions, particularly the cylinder rod and its surrounding environment.
Read more...
The role of hydraulic systems in heavy machinery
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
In this article, we explore how hydraulic systems function, their role in powering heavy equipment, and why they are the preferred choice for industries requiring immense power and precision.
Read more...
Reliable, flexible and cost-effective rental compressed air
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
More businesses are turning to Integrated Air Solutions for rented on-demand compressed air, without the burden of capital expenditure.
Read more...
Axiom expands its hydraulic solutions with Powerstart piston accumulators
Axiom Hydraulics
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Axiom is proud to announce a unique partnership with Powerworks, introducing a new generation of piston accumulators into the South African market, the Powerstart piston accumulators.
Read more...
Dynamic compressor control system with energy savings
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
CompAir has launched Ecoplant, a dynamic, compressed air management solution that adjusts compressor parameters in real time, offering up to 30 per cent reductions in energy costs and CO
2 emissions.
Read more...
Festo commits to a greener industrial future by driving sustainability and energy efficiency
Festo South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As the world is facing significant ecological, social and economic challenges, Festo is taking proactive responsibility. Their goal is to contribute to a more sustainable future through the development of innovative technologies and responsible actions.
Read more...
printer friendly version