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
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