Piab adds new size to its ‘bellows’ end-effector range
Piab has further broadened its already extensive range of what are called “end-effectors” – basically the “hands” for robotic arms.
Piab has extended its line of bellows flat friction suction cups to include a cup measuring 80 mm in diameter.
With this 80 mm cup, the company says it will fill the gap in its “highly competitive” range of DuraFlex friction cups. The new size BFFT80P-2 is available with 10 standard friction suction cup fittings.
The Bellows Flat Friction Cup (BFFT) design is the best choice for very thin metal sheets (0.6 to 0.8 mm) to avoid risk for dents.
This new cup has an enhanced bellow (stiffer) and dimensions (height, diameter and stroke) to make it suitable to fit general automotive applications and compete on the market.
The BFFT80P-2 works great on flat and uneven/curved surfaces or if level compensation is needed, for example in de-stacking applications. It is also designed for handling outer body car parts in a press-to press forming process.
The cup and inner support are made of DuraFlex, a unique material made especially by Piab, which features the elasticity of rubber and the wear resistance of polyurethane.
DuraFlex suction cups allow for stability and good grip no matter any orientation. The material does not leave any marks on the objects handled, has a fantastic elastic memory.
The refined internal friction pattern provides additional grip performance, the suction cups can withstand high shear forces, typically three to five times more than corresponding conventional suction cups.
The BFFT80P-2 works best if press oil is used on a metal sheet, but this suction cup is also a great choice for:
- Dry sheet metal
- Corrugated cardboard
- Wood
- Glass
- Objects requiring a very clean surface (mark-free)
