Technical Data of Suction Cups

Certain calculations are required for the selection of individual components when designing a vacuum system. The specified values are based on a vacuum level of -0.6 bar as well as a dry or lubricated workpiece surface. They are given without a safety factor. Depending on the operating conditions, one should keep in mind reductions that may occur due to friction or if a vacuum level is not reached (e.g. due to porous workpieces).

The most important technical data of the suction cups are explained below.

Theoretical suction force

The theoretical suction force is the force acting perpendicular to the surface. The specifications in the catalog are calculated values in newtons.

Shear force

The shear force is the force acting tangentially to the surface. The specifications in the catalog are measured values in newtons.

Tearing force

The tearing force is the maximum suction power with the suction cup is torn by an airtight, flat, smooth workpiece. The data are measured values without safety factor and serve as a clue to the max. possible load.

Minimum radius of curvature of the workpiece

Indicates the radius up to which the workpiece can be gripped securely with the respective suction cup.

Suction cup stroke

Refers to the suction cup’s stroke (z) that occurs during evacuation of the suction cup.

Inner volume

The inner volume indicates the volume of a body that has to be evacuated to pick up a workpiece. It is used to determine the total volume of the gripper system and is included when calculating evacuation times.