Utilizing a Vacuum Pump for Automated Material Handling with Robots
From electronics to logistics, packaging, food processing, printing, paper, construction, and more, robotic material handling stands out as the swiftest, most precise, and efficient method for moving materials.
Every manufacturing process requires careful consideration when it comes to material handling. Alongside selecting the right industrial robots and software programming, choosing the appropriate gripping technology to handle specific packages or products is crucial.
While physical handling by human employees is the simplest method for picking and placing objects, alternative options include automated robotic handling using vacuum pumps, mechanical grippers, or Venturi pumps that utilize compressed air to create a vacuum.
This article focuses on the selection of the correct vacuum pump for automated robotic material handling applications.
Vacuum Pumps for Robotic Material Handling
The fundamental process of robotic handling utilizes a vacuum pump to create vacuum pressure, which temporarily holds an item using an end-of-arm tool (EOAT) for movement or modification. The most common application is placing products in boxes or moving the boxes themselves. However, pick-and-place methods can also be used for accurately positioning small electronic components on circuit boards or relocating heavy concrete blocks in construction projects.
This process involves connecting the vacuum pump to tubes or piping, which are then linked to EOATs like vacuum cups that pick up, hold, and release products at the desired location.
Challenges in Material Handling
When selecting a handling method, several challenges must be addressed. Human employees have limited productivity levels and may face high labor costs. They can also be at risk of injury from heavy loads or exposure to hazardous materials in the manufacturing environment.
Mechanical gripping, although an option, can be slower and may require high gripping strength, potentially damaging delicate items. Furthermore, hazards from products or manufacturing processes can harm mechanical handling equipment, especially when dealing with corrosive chemicals.
Vacuum Pumps: An Effective Solution
Robotic applications using vacuum technology simplify the process of picking and placing objects, making it faster, safer, and less physically demanding for employees. Vacuum pumps are often a safer choice compared to mechanical handling, particularly in hazardous environments or when handling dangerous materials.
There are two main types of pumps used in automated robotic material handling systems: mechanical vacuum pumps and Venturi pumps.
While Venturi pumps may have a lower initial cost, they require access to a compressed air source, resulting in higher overall costs due to increased energy consumption and lower efficiency compared to mechanical vacuum pumps.
Mechanical vacuum pumps provide the necessary vacuum for grasping, holding, positioning, and moving objects. Compact pumps can be positioned near the assembly line and robot, requiring only short tubes or pipes to supply the necessary vacuum flow to the robot's EOAT.
Selecting a Vacuum Pump for Robotic Material Handling
Different types of vacuum pumps, such as dry rotary vane, hook and claw, regenerative blower, and oil-lubricated pumps, offer specific benefits for various applications in robotic material handling.
Considerations such as the type of product, required action and accuracy, product surface material, weight, porosity, available gripping surface, type of gripping tool (EOAT), and machine movement speed/force are crucial in choosing the right vacuum pump. Consulting with experts can ensure the selection of the most effective and efficient vacuum solution for specific needs.
