Suction pads

Suction pads from Schmalz are subdivided into universal suction pads and suction pads for specific branches and applications. The universal suction pads cover a wide range or requirements, while the suction pads for special branches and applications are designed to meet special requirements and are characterised by special properties, such as the handling of thin bodywork parts in the automotive industry or of porous workpieces in the woodworking industry.

In general, a distinction is made between the following shapes:

• Flat suction pads
• Bellows suction pads

Each version has its own specific advantages, which can be improved or optimised by the use of suction pads made of various materials. Detailed explanations of the available suction pad materials can be found after the section "Selection and Configuration".

Flat suction pads

Flat suction pads are particularly suitable for the handling of objects with flat or only slightly curved surfaces. Due to their flat shape, they can grip the workpiece in a very short time and can withstand the forces which result from fast movement of the object during handling.

Advantages of flat suction pads

• Wide range of suction pads made from various materials and with differing sizes and shapes (round, oval, with steep or flat sealing lip)


• Low overall height and the resulting minimum internal volume ensures very short evacuation times


• Suitable for high lateral forces


• Good intrinsic stability when attached to the load

Typical applications

• Handling of smooth or slightly rough workpieces such as metal sheets, cardboard boxes, sheets of glass, plastic parts and sheets of wood

Bellows suction pads

Bellows suction pads are used when it is necessary to compensate for varying workpiece heights, to handle parts with uneven surfaces or to handle easily-damaged parts.

Advantages of bellows suction pads

• Good adaptation to uneven workpiece surfaces


• Lifting effect during evacuation


• Compensation for height differences


• Careful gripping of easily damaged workpieces

Typical applications

• Handling of curved or uneven workpieces such as car body work components, pipes, cardboard boxes etc.


• Handling of easily damaged workpieces such as electronic components, injection-molded plastic parts etc.


• Handling of products packed in boxes or blister-packs

Helpful downloads

Further information:

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