Schmalz at glasstec: A Firm Grip on Breakables

Whether in architecture or in manufacturing automobiles or displays, glass use is steadily increasing. Handling this delicate material without damaging it or leaving behind marks often requires the use of vacuum technology. At glasstec, which takes place from October 23 to 26 in Düsseldorf, Schmalz will showcase its powerful solutions for manual and automated handling, such as the thin glass gripper STGG, in Hall 11, Booth G24.

Schmalz developed the thin glass gripper STGG for manufacturing TFT displays that are as thin as 0.1 millimeters, such as those used in smartphones or tablets. With its large suction area and closely positioned suction cup openings, it absorbs high lateral forces with minimal surface pressure. To prevent any kind of contamination before or after the display is coated, the contact surfaces are made of contamination-free PEEK. In addition, Schmalz offers a broad range of suction cups made of HT1, a material that leaves few marks.

The suction plates SGF HS with especially large stroke also feature high lateral forces and reliable gripping. The FM1 version with a flange module ensures a secure hold and allows for easy mounting on the machine table. In addition to the HT1 material, suction plates are also available in the elastomer EPDM. Schmalz will also showcase jointed mountings from the Flexolink series at the trade show. These allow inclined workpieces to be securely handled using suction cups or suction plates with large surface areas.

The vacuum area gripping systems FXP and FMP will also be presented at glasstec. Users can palletize, de-palletize, commission and sort workpieces with different dimensions using only a single gripper. Fragile glasses can be handled carefully and without leaving scratches. Schmalz developed a cover made of special mesh specifically for this purpose.

The flat table suction cups VCBL-GL for clamping glass will also be showcased. These suction cups can be used for edging window glass in the automotive industry. The suction cups use a two-circuit vacuum system and two hose connections. One positions the suction cup on the machine table while the other fastens the workpiece on the vacuum block. The suction cups’ high lateral force absorption provide optimal holding forces for machining both dry and moist glass.

Small windows and glass sheets can be transported by hand; however, for heavier and larger glass, technical equipment is needed. Schmalz offers a range of lifting devices for manual handling, including cranes. A VacuMaster Window Comfort 500 with column-mounted jib crane will be on display in Düsseldorf. This device is used in applications where windows are glazed or windows with multiple panes are handled. The tube lifter JumboErgo 110 will also be on display at glasstec.