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Global
MDA
Journal
Flexible Holder System for Vacuum Automation
Schmalz India Pvt Ltd
Safe and precise handling of molded parts requires modular solutions that can adapt to the shape of the sheet metal
being handled. With the holder system for tooling HT, J. Schmalz GmbH has developed a flexible system comprised
of lightweight aluminum components, making it ideal for highly dynamic operations. The modular system makes it
possible to configure individual holders or specific assemblies.
T
he automotive industry is extremely
dynamic and requires a great deal
of flexibility, in particular due to the
enormous range of models and highly
individual customer configurations.
For this reason, modular, automated
manufacturing and logistics processes
that can be quickly adapted to changing
conditions are found throughout the
entire automotive production chain. J.
Schmalz GmbH vacuum components are
installed everywhere that workpieces
are automatically handled – from press
shops to car body construction lines
all the way to final assembly lines. For
example, in press shops, suction cups
are used for precise handling of oily
sheet metal pieces. At the end of the
production chain, car body elements
with complex shapes such as doors,
roofs, motor hoods or side panels must
be gripped and transported to the next
facility.
Moreover, a flexible holder system is
required in order to ensure that the
components can be gripped reliably.
The modular principle of the new
holder system for tooling HT allows for a
32 | may-june 2019
wide range of holder configurations for
gripper construction in press and body
shops. Depending on the application in
question, Schmalz offers slim holders,
holders for decentralized vacuum
generators, and holders with integrated
vacuum nozzles. These components
can be combined with various vacuum
suction cups and generators as well
as with spring plungers and vacuum
switches. The freely adjustable suction
cup positions as well
as the option to use
the new holder system
with all conventional
tooling systems in
automotive
press
shops provide optimal
flexibility, and ensure
that the holders are
compatible all quick-
change systems.
With this modular
holder
system,
Schmalz
has
considered not only the installation
conditions but also the processes
involved in automotive manufacturing.
The engineers from Glatten, Germany,
rely on lightweight components to
ensure that the holders and grippers
do not limit the range of motion
during the handling of metal sheets.
In combination with other lightweight
Schmalz components, this provides
the operator with an up to 45 percent
lighter gripping system.
Holder for suction cup HT-SG E with
decentralized vacuum generator SEAC
and bell-shaped suction cup SAX for
handling car body parts
The company
Schmalz is the market leader in vacuum
automation and ergonomic handling
systems. Schmalz products are used
all over the world, for example in
applications in the logistics industry, the
automotive industry, the electronics
sector or in furniture production. The
wide range of products in the Vacuum
Automation unit includes individual
components such as suction cups and
vacuum generators, as well as complete
gripping systems and clamping solutions
for holding workpieces, for example in
CNC machining centers. The Handling
Systems unit offers innovative handling
solutions with vacuum lifters and crane
systems for industrial and handicraft
applications. With the Energy Storage
unit, Schmalz has created a new pillar
in the field of stationary energy storage.
With comprehensive consulting, a focus
on innovation and first-class quality,
Schmalz offers its customers long-
lasting benefits. Schmalz’s intelligent
solutions make production and logistics
processes more flexible and efficient,
while also preparing them for the
increasing trend toward digitalization.
With its own locations and its sales
partners, Schmalz is represented in
more than 80 countries and in all
important markets. The family owned
company has around 1,400 employees
at its headquarters in Glatten (in the
Black Forest region of Germany) and its
18 subsidiaries worldwide.
www.schmalz.com/
Global MDA Journal