As an entrepreneur, you know that maximum efficiency and the best return are the engine of your production processes. Unplanned downtime is your worst enemy. Every detail in your automation, from the smallest pneumatic component to the complex robotic arm, is crucial for reliability.
The vacuum suction cup is often the most critical, but overlooked link. A wrong choice not only costs you time and money, but also endangers your product safety.
The question is: how do you select the right suction cup for your production? With our in-depth expertise and years of experience at Pneuparts, we guide you step-by-step to a well-considered and safe choice. Choosing the right vacuum solution prevents damage to objects and guarantees the stability of your production line.
The first and most decisive step is the thorough analysis of the product to be handled. This forms the basis for the choice of materials and the dimensions of the suction cup you need.
The material of the vacuum suction cup must be perfectly suited to the surface and the environmental conditions.
Silicone (VMQ): Ideal for the food industry and at high temperatures. This material is odorless and leaves no residue, making it ideal for handling unpackaged food and pharmaceuticals.
Polyurethane (PU): A very wear-resistant and robust material that is often used for rough surfaces where a longer lifespan and mechanical resistance is desired. It is a stronger, more modern competitor to traditional rubber.
Ceramic materials: Particularly suitable for extremely abrasive or hot surfaces, and helps to prevent damage caused by friction.
For delicate objects such as mirrors and glass, you need a soft silicone product with a secure, even grip. Heavy, massive tasks, such as metal plates, require a sturdy material to withstand the suction force consistently.
Is the surface flat, concave, convex or structured?
Flat suction cups: used for even and flat surfaces such as tiles and flat panels.
Bellows suction cups: They provide optimal height compensation and provide a cushioning effect, making them ideal for fragile objects.
After you have determined the material, the next step is to calculate the required force.
This is the most important feature that guarantees the optimal safety and stability of your process.
The total lifting force must be at least two to three times the weight of the object to be lifted. This margin of safety is important to absorb dynamic forces, impurities and sudden movements. The diameter of the suction cup is decisive here, because the larger the diameter as a larger surface area can distribute more force and offers better adhesion.
Our experts can help you accurately calculate the required kg that your product should be able to handle.
When you need to lift and move large objects or long panels, using just one suction cup is often insufficient for weight distribution and stability. The use of double suction cups or a series of smaller suction cups is the best solution.
This setup distributes the total suction power across multiple contact points, reducing the chance of tipping over when lifting or turning. This is especially suitable when handling large sheets of glass or metal sheets in industry. This way you achieve maximum grip and optimal safety.
The final stage is all about correctly attaching and embedding the vacuum suction cup in your tool or installation.
Each suction cup must be correctly attached to the tool. This is usually done via a screw thread. Make sure you select the right threads that match your equipment to avoid leakage of the vacuum. Our components are equipped with the standard specifications, making this easy to arrange.
Consider the entire range of conditions in your specific applications. Think of:
Temperature: Extreme cold or heat can affect the properties of the material (such as rubber or silicone).
Moisture, oil and dust: These can disrupt the seal and reduce grip.
Chemicals: Ask for different materials that are chemically resistant.
By factoring these features into the process of choosing, you can be sure that you're choosing the right suction cup for longevity and a high level of stability.
Selecting the right suction cup is a process that requires expertise, but which immediately provides you as an entrepreneur with safety and efficiency. With these three steps in mind, you can make the best choice for your applications.
Our experts are happy to help you choose the right product, so that you can easily tackle your big challenges. We ensure that you can lift, lift and grab with the best grip and maximum safety!
At Pneuparts you will find a wide range of pneumatic items and tools that are readily available.
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NEED HELP ?
For individual technical advice or support, please contact one of our specialists.
We are available from Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (CET)
 | +31(0)493-763993 |
+31(0)493-763993
ORDERING SERVICE
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You can collect your order on working days between 08:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 17:00, Florijn 10 b/c Deurne.
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Orders are shipped the same day, if in stock, and delivered to you the next day by UPS.
