Pneumatic module handles parts at blinding speed

For small parts that need to be handled quickly, pick-and-place module from Festo Corp., N.Y. (festo.com/us), offers cycle times ranging from 0.6 to 1.0 sec, depending on size. The unit features adjustable horizontal and vertical strokes and is available with an optional dwell position. It is said to be one of the fastest and most-compact guided pneumatic-handling device on the market.

It can handle loads to 1.6 kg, though it is ideally suited for parts less than 100 gm. Typical applications include simple insertion and removal tasks on rotaryindexing tables and sorting operations in transfer systems. Repeatability at the end positions is 0.002 mm or less, ensuring outstanding precision even at top speeds. Unlike most cam-actuated systems, the HSP is not built with rigid kinematics. A slotted guideplate rigidly mounted to an aluminum base permits horizontal adjustments. And an adjustable Z axis permits different heights at pick-andplace positions. The modular unit ships ready to install with a range of grippers, rotary drives (or optional driveshaft for electric motors), and vacuum generators that attach via a universal adapter. Three different versions offer Y-axis strokes to 170 mm and Z-axis strokes to 70 mm. Operating pressure ranges from 4 to 8 bar.