How to choose the right vacuum cup?

The vacuum suction cup is one of the end effectors commonly used by the manipulator in the handling process, and its selection directly affects the stability and efficiency of the handling. Choosing a suitable vacuum suction cup requires comprehensive consideration of multiple factors:

1. Characteristics of the workpiece
Material: Workpieces of different materials have different requirements for the material and vacuum degree of the suction cup. For example, smooth surfaces such as glass and plastic are easy to adsorb, while rough surfaces or porous materials require special suction cup materials.
Shape: The shape of the workpiece determines the shape and number of the suction cup. For workpieces with complex shapes, multiple suction cups may be required for use.
Weight: The weight of the workpiece determines the size and vacuum degree of the suction cup. Heavier workpieces require greater suction force.
Surface state: The finish and flatness of the workpiece surface will affect the adsorption effect.

2. Working environment
Temperature: High or low temperature environments will affect the material properties of the suction cup.
Humidity: High humidity environments may affect the vacuum degree.
Dust: Dust will affect the performance of the vacuum pump, thereby affecting the adsorption force.

3. Vacuum source
Performance of the vacuum pump: The flow rate and vacuum degree of the vacuum pump determine the maximum suction force of the suction cup.
Vacuum line: The length and diameter of the vacuum line will affect the attenuation of the vacuum degree.

4. Material of the suction cup
Rubber suction cup: Good flexibility, suitable for workpieces with irregular shapes.
Silicone rubber suction cup: High temperature and oil resistance, suitable for harsh environments.
Polyurethane suction cup: Wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant, suitable for rough surfaces.
Nylon suction cup: Lightweight, wear-resistant, suitable for high-speed handling.

5. Shape of suction cup
Round suction cup: Strong versatility, suitable for flat workpieces.
Square suction cup: Suitable for workpieces with straight edges.
Special shape suction cup: Customized according to the shape of the workpiece to improve the adsorption effect.

6. Arrangement of suction cups
Single suction cup: Suitable for workpieces with simple shapes and light weight.
Multiple suction cups: Suitable for workpieces with complex shapes and heavy weight, which can improve stability.

Steps to select vacuum suction cups

Determine the characteristics of the workpiece: material, shape, weight, surface state, etc.

Choose the appropriate suction cup material: Choose the appropriate suction cup material according to the workpiece material and working environment.

Determine the shape and size of the suction cup: Select the appropriate suction cup shape and size according to the shape and weight of the workpiece.

Calculate the required vacuum degree: Calculate the required vacuum degree according to the weight of the workpiece and the safety factor.

Select the vacuum pump: Select the appropriate vacuum pump according to the vacuum degree and flow requirements.

Conduct test verification: Conduct tests in actual applications to verify the adsorption effect of the suction cup.