Maximum throughput in pick-and-place applications requires a high-performance gripping concept. The prerequisite for this: extremely short evacuation and ventilation times. This is where the directly actuated 3/2-way valves LQEc/LQEi with integrated vacuum switch from Schmalz come into play. In systems with centralized vacuum generation, they enable decentralized monitoring and control of the process directly at the gripper. Thanks to the design as a bistable valve with end position fixing and the additional non-return valve, the vacuum is held and process reliability is ensured even in the event of a power failure.

With a maximum flow rate of 268 liters per minute, the compact valves can be used either individually or together for the design of multiple vacuum circuits. In combination with electrical vacuum generators such as the Compact Pump GCPi, operators can design fully electrical systems. The effective atmospheric ventilation makes it possible to completely dispense with expensive compressed air, even when depositing workpieces. Optimized flow cross-sections make the process fast and reliable. Connectors and the start of operations are completed quickly, as the valve and switch are integrated into the housing.

LQEi is part of the Schmalz Connect series and is therefore predestined for the digital factory. It provides process and status data at all times via IO-Link - so not only can specialists monitor the machine remotely and in real time, they can also detect creeping changes before a failure occurs.