When packaging processes are running, speed is essential. At the same time, the demands are increasing: bags are getting thinner, cartons lighter, and cycle rates higher. Additionally, there are hygiene regulations and changing formats. Schmalz addresses these conditions with clever solutions for vacuum automation. They are predestined for products that react sensitively, have changing surfaces, or when the line must handle multiple variants.
Many packaging machines handle parts with irregular shapes or different materials. With the modular finger gripper mGrip and its flexibility through adjustable opening angles, gripping force, and finger positions, users can manage product changes without having to reinvent the handling each time. The end effectors adapt to different formats, eliminating setup times. At the same time, process reliability increases because the mGrip works reproducibly even with varying workpieces: the machine grips securely, transports reliably, and places with control. This reduces misgrips, which can quickly lead to jams in packaging lines.
Automated movement of flexible bags
Bags require little material but also come with disadvantages: they are floppy, form wrinkles, and often do not lie flat. This is where the bellows suction gripper PSPF comes in. Its soft, conforming sealing lip holds even bags with significant wrinkling securely. Schmalz combines this sealing lip with a reinforced bellows that provides stability and support during fast cycles. This allows businesses to time pick-and-place applications to the second.
The bellows suction gripper PSPF supports this process even when bags are only lightly filled and therefore deform more. Users benefit from reproducible gripping processes, reduced scrap, and fewer machine stoppages.
High volume flow, less effort
In addition to the gripper, vacuum generation determines cycle and stability. For this, Schmalz introduces the compact ejectors SCPLi. They generate vacuum based on the Venturi principle from compressed air, sit close to the gripper, and deliver suction capacities ranging from 290 to 1,140 liters per minute, depending on the model. This shortens evacuation times and supports fast packaging processes. Via IO-Link, the device transmits data directly to the control system, allowing businesses to monitor and optimize gripping precisely.
For users, the flexibility is also interesting: An optionally switchable air-saving control allows for efficient handling of suction-tight materials like glass or metal sheets. Additionally, there is a new flange version that docks the compact ejector series SCPL directly to the gripper module, allowing vacuum generation without long piping, thus preventing unnecessary flow losses.
Schmalz complements automation at interpack with vacuum hose lifters like the JumboFlex for manual processes. They support ergonomic lifting and moving, relieving employees and maintaining stable material flow. Hose lifters are suitable when cartons, bags, or containers are frequently repositioned, and the line requires high repetition rates.
Schmalz from May 7 to 13 at interpack: Hall 13, Stand A46
Contact:
