As robots take on more difficult operations and handle increasingly complex workpieces, we’re seeing more advances in gripper technologies. One common type is the vacuum gripper, which traditionally combines vacuum generators and suction cups to pick up a variety of objects, including workpieces that have uneven or different shapes, sizes and materials. 

Yet despite their speed and versatility, vacuum grippers rely on a constant supply of compressed air to operate, driving up energy consumption and cost. For many applications, these factors are a definitive turn-off. Fortunately, not all vacuum grippers rely on costly, inefficient air sources anymore. Some include a built-in vacuum pump, which eliminates the need for an air source and reduces current consumption by up to 64 percent. 

The Benefits of Electric Vacuum Grippers

Electric vacuum grippers, such as the ZXPE5 series, require only a connection to an electrical wire to operate. Ideal for collaborative robots, or cobots, this device includes an integrated vacuum pump, atmospheric release valve and pressure monitor. To handle a wide variety of workpiece shapes, it also supports up to four cups of various types and materials. 

Three operating modes make this gripper energy efficient compared to traditional vacuum grippers. In addition to a continuous mode, the ZXPE5 series offers automatic and manual modes, which reduce the amount of vacuum pressure, pump motor speed and current consumption. It also includes a diagnostic function that analyzes vacuum pressure levels.

Additional benefits include improved safety and flexibility, as well as reduced maintenance:

• Safety: The ZXPE5’s use of one connecting cable versus many makes it safer in collaborative human-robot work environments. 
• Flexibility: Its single cable and integrated vacuum pump make it a highly portable option in industrial environments, while its range of cup options can adapt easily to workpieces.
• Maintenance: Finally, the ZXPE5 doesn’t require as much maintenance as grippers that run on external air supplies. It also features built-in diagnostic functions, enabling users to monitor its performance and energy usage.

Here’s a quick rundown of the ZXPE5 gripper’s additional features:

• Easy programming via URCap, a dedicated software certified for Universal Robots. 
• Quick tool changes. Simply tighten the two clamper bolts.
• Light weight — only 556 grams.
• A 360° LED display of the status.
• Various cup shapes — flat, flat with rib, bellows, thin flat, multi-stage bellows, 2.5 bellows, 5.5 stage bellows or no cup.
• Many cup materials — NBR, silicone rubber, urethane rubber, FKM and FDA-compliant silicone rubber.
• Multiple cup diameters — 8, 10, 13, 16, 20, 25, 30 and 32 millimeters.
• Compatible with UR3(e), UR5(e), UR10(e), UR16(e).
• ISO 9409-4-50-M6 standard.

To learn more about the features and benefits of electric vacuum grippers, visit SMC’s website.