Schmalz Inc. will showcase its portfolio of innovative vacuum handling solutions at the composites and advanced material Expo CAMX 2017 in Orlando, Florida. One of the highlights at booth A52 includes the Schmalz Needle Gripper (SNG-M) for handling composite textiles and preforms. This needle gripper is specifically designed to handle highly permeable workpieces.
The needles of this gripper 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.
Schmalz will also demonstrate the Composite Needle Gripper SCG, which is particularly suitable for handling thin, porous and sensitive workpieces at CAMX. The high-volume flow of the gripper ensures secure holding even with porous material or workpieces that do not cover the entire suction surface. The gripper has the distinct features of a large contact surface and many suction openings closely set together. With its integrated vacuum generation, the Special Gripper SCG is a ready-to-connect gripping unit that has only the availability of compressed air as prerequisite. Minimal air consumption and very low-maintenance operation also ensure low operating costs.
The Schmalz team of experts will also be exhibiting an assortment of suction cups perfect for the many textures, densities and sculpts used in the composite industry. Alongside with this, guests can attend the hands-on demonstrations and are invited to bring along sample workpieces for testing or pictures to discuss solutions to their individual most challenging applications.
