Efficient vacuum technology from Schmalz at Blechexpo 2017

The vacuum gripper SAXM offers extremely good grip even on oiled sheets. (Image: J. Schmalz GmbH)

At the 2017 Blechexpo in Stuttgart, J. Schmalz GmbH will showcase its portfolio of powerful vacuum handling solutions for sheet metal processing from November 7th to 10th. A highlight in Hall 1 at booth 1003 is an app that allows for easy parameterization of intelligent components.

The Schmalz app offers users a whole range of advantages. It enables all NFC (Near Field Communication) capable Smart Field Devices to be not only read but also written to. A smartphone is sufficient to quickly and easily parameterize the vacuum and pressure switch VSi or transfer data from one device to another. This pays off: the commissioning time of handling systems is reduced by up to 75 percent. The acquisition costs are up to 40 percent lower because no additional display and input modules are required on the systems.

For use in automated systems and machines, Schmalz presents powerful individual components such as the suction grippers of the SAXM, SAB, and SAF series. They handle all types of sheets very dynamically. High holding and lateral forces ensure process-safe handling of even rolled sheets. Handling of thin sheets occurs without deep-drawing effects. The suction grippers are very wear-resistant and robust.

Among the exhibits are also compact, lightweight vacuum generators. The "i" series of vacuum generators collect and interpret process data and communicate it via IO-Link up to the control level. The "i" series also includes the compact terminal SCTMi with up to 16 stacked ejectors. This unit can be configured modularly and allows the simultaneous, independent handling of different parts with just one gripping system. The terminal works especially energy-efficiently: only one connection is required for compressed air and power supply.

Schmalz also has ready-to-connect fully assembled grippers, such as the FXP/FMP gripping system. The flat gripper excels when handling semi-finished products in layer-wise movement.

Powerful vacuum lifters for manual handling complete Schmalz's trade fair offerings. For example, the VacuMaster series. They securely and damage-free move sheets, metal plates, or coils weighing up to several tons. Schmalz vacuum lifters protect operators' health and allow fatigue-free work even during high throughput. Custom-designed for handling systems, aluminum crane systems and swivel cranes are also on display in Stuttgart. Their low weight makes the process of braking and positioning goods particularly easy.