GOUDSMIT Magnetics has released combination magnetic and vacuum grippers suited for automated handling of sheet steel, aluminium, stainless steel and most other sheet metal items.
The MagVacu Combi gripper system is said to be compact and low-profile. It utilises both a conventional vacuum suction pad and integrated permanent magnets within one gripper system.
According to the company, this combination allows sheet metal work to be handled with twice the power and safety. The magnetic field means the steel sheets are always kept in complete contact with the suction pad, guaranteeing the suction force.
The permanent magnet system also allows items with holes and perforations to be handled, while aluminium and stainless steel plates are picked up using the vacuum system.
The magnets are pneumatically operated, being switched on and off via compressed air. No electrical connection is needed and the magnets will continue to hold even if there is an air pressure or power failure.
A range of sizes is available from 40mm diameter with 75N combined holding force, up to 100mm diameter with 640N maximum holding force and capability to handle from thin sheets up to 10mm plate.
Goudsmit Magnetics grippers are available in Australia via Romheld Automation.

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