FEL: The flattest of the area grippers

A 1-cent coin measures 16.25 millimeters in diameter. The base section of the new area gripper from Schmalz is barely higher. Added to this is a ten millimeter thick sealing foam. At the same time, the new FEL impresses with more than its 26.5 millimeter height. The vacuum experts at Schmalz also had energy efficiency and operating costs in mind during development: They segmented the area gripper into up to four zones that can be individually controlled and switched off. To keep the interfering contours as small as possible, the individual suction zones are supplied by channels integrated into the section. The vacuum is built up via external vacuum generators.

The main body made of aluminum and the modular lightweight design keep the weight of the FEL below three kilograms and enable a high load capacity of up to 1400 N in a vertical installation position. This allows the new vacuum gripping system to plunge deep into transport boxes or shelf compartments and also to dynamically remove and deposit workpieces such as monitors in various dimensions and pick-up positions. The sealing foam is particularly gentle on the workpiece surface, has a long service life and is easy to replace thanks to quick-change film.