7. Vacuum handling equipment

7.1 Principle

Vacuum handling (or, more precisely, creating a reaction force by means of a vacuum in relation to the ambient atmosphere) is essentially valid for products with a major flat surface, with no sticking points.

The gripping point(s) is (are) obtained by using suction cups. This is the field par excellence for handling all vacuum-tight products, presenting a sufficiently large gripping surface in relation to the mass. The technology extends to the handling of flexible or porous products (such as bags, cartons or wood).

Handling can be performed horizontally or vertically; in the latter case, the number or size of suction cups needs to be increased.

The technology is suitable for handling single loads,...