Schunk has introduced a 24V gripper with IO-link called the Schunk EGP. It is designed for small components during fast-paced pick & place applications. The Schunk EGP electric gripper satisfies the IO-Link Class B Standard suitable for increased power consumption and can be directly connected with an IO-Link Class B Master.

Schunk said the EGP will initially be available in sizes 40, 60, and 64 with a finger stroke of 6 mm/8 mm/ 10 mm, and maximum gripping forces of 140 N/210 N/300 N. The repeat accuracy during the gripping operation is 0.02 mm, and during positioning of the gripper fingers it is 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm. The Schunk EGP gripper is suitable for handling parts up to 0.7 kg/1.05 kg/1.25 kg. In addition to the version with IO-link, the Schunk EGP is available with actuation via digital I/O.

The fingers on the EGP can be freely positioned within every cycle, which allows for increased flexibility. Schunk said the gripping force can be adapted to the respective workpiece using software settings in four stages, so handling scenarios with deformation-sensitive parts can also be achieved.

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Schunk, which recently held its annual two-day International Expert Days conference, said the position of the gripper’s fingers are detectable using the integrated measuring system over the entire stroke, and no external sensors are required for monitoring.

An integrated diagnosis tool permanently monitors the voltage, current, temperature, and condition of the EGP gripper and transmits errors automatically to the control system. If need be, systems operators can also store maintenance intervals for the system on the tool. Brushless servomotors and a clearance-free junction roller guide ensure a high level of efficiency and constant gripping forces across the entire finger length.

Just like its predecessor, the pneumatic SCHUNK MPG-plus, the EGP gripper takes screws on the side or at the base, which increases its flexibility within a system design. To increase the dynamics and the energy efficiency of higher-level systems, the gripper housing consists of a special high-performance aluminum.