Schmalz Needle Gripper SNG-M for Handling Composite Textiles and Preforms

Even when using reliable vacuum suction cups, highly porous workpieces such as composite textiles or preforms can be only be gripped under certain conditions.

The needle gripper SNG-M is specially designed to handle these kinds of highly permeable workpieces. There are 4 needles located in the housing of the needle gripper. These needles are extended using compressed air and retracted using springs. The needles are installed at an angle and pierce into the material after the gripper is placed on the workpiece. The angle at which the needles pierce the workpiece creates a secure grip. The fixed insertion depth of the needles provides the required holding force. The workpieces are securely and precisely lifted, transported, and deposited. Because of its compact dimensions, the small needle gripper SNG-M is easy to install, even in tight spaces.

Various needle gripper designs are available for individual operating conditions. The needles are available in diameters of 0.8, 1.2 and 2.0 mm. The various needle strengths make it possible to pierce extremely small holes for delicate workpieces, while also providing the necessary stability and holding force for heavy workpieces. In order to adapt the needle gripper to the various workpiece heights, the gripper is equipped with either a fixed or adjustable needle stroke. The set needle stroke determines how deep the needles are inserted into the workpiece being handled. This can be set to anywhere between 0 and 17 mm. The needle grippers are equipped with up to 24 needles.