Grippers are one of the most important components of robotic systems used in various industries. They are designed to hold and manipulate objects with different shapes and sizes, and they come in various types, materials, and designs. In this blog, we will discuss the most common types of grippers, the materials used in their construction, and the selection criteria for choosing the right gripper for your application.
Types of Grippers
Vacuum Grippers
Vacuum grippers use suction to hold objects in place. They are commonly used in industries such as food and beverage, where picking up delicate and irregularly shaped objects is necessary. Vacuum grippers come in various sizes and shapes, and they can be customized to fit specific applications.
Mechanical Grippers
Mechanical grippers use fingers or jaws to hold objects. They come in various sizes and designs, and they can be customized to fit specific applications. Mechanical grippers are commonly used in industries such as automotive, where handling heavy parts is necessary.
Magnetic Grippers
Magnetic grippers use magnets to hold objects in place. They are commonly used in industries such as metalworking, where handling metal parts is necessary. Magnetic grippers can be customized to fit specific applications.
Materials Used in Grippers
Aluminium
Aluminium is a lightweight and durable material that is commonly used in gripper construction. It is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material that is commonly used in gripper construction. It is suitable for applications that require high cleanliness and hygiene standards, such as the food and beverage industry.
Plastic
Plastic is a lightweight and cost-effective material that is commonly used in gripper construction. It is suitable for applications that require low gripping force, such as picking up delicate objects.
Selection Criteria for Grippers
Gripping Force
The gripping force is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting a gripper. The gripping force should be sufficient to hold the object firmly in place, but not too strong that it damages the object.
Object Size and Shape
The size and shape of the object are also important factors to consider when selecting a gripper. The gripper should be able to hold the object securely and without causing damage.
Environment
The environment in which the gripper will be used is also an important factor to consider. Grippers used in harsh environments may require additional protection or different materials than those used in cleanroom environments.
Grippers are an essential part of many industrial and automation applications. The type of gripper selected will depend on the application, object size and weight, environment, and cost. The materials used in grippers, such as rubber, silicone, steel, aluminium, and neodymium, offer unique features that make them suited for specific applications. By considering these factors, it is possible to select the right gripper for a particular application at Pact Automation.