PIAB

Piab's COAX MICRO and COAX MINI cartridges are multi-stage vacuum ejectors that differ primarily in size and flow capacity. COAX MICRO cartridges, such as the Xi series, are compact and used in space-constrained applications like the piINLINE MICRO generator (e.g., SKU 01.22.884) with a 0.49 scfm flow rate. COAX MINI cartridges, including Pi, Xi, and Si variants, offer higher flow rates and are often found in larger assemblies like the VGS 3040 series. Both use the same COAX principle: compressed air is expanded through multiple stages to create vacuum. Selection depends on required vacuum flow, available air pressure, and connection sizes. COAX MINI cartridges typically have 1/8 in NPSF or 3/8 in G ports, while COAX MICRO often uses 6 mm tube connections.

Piab vacuum pads are available in several materials, including polyurethane (PU), EPDM, silicone, and nitrile. Polyurethane pads, such as the BX20P.4E multi-bellows pad, offer good wear resistance and are suitable for handling boxes, bags, and cartons in packaging. EPDM pads, like the Kenos FlexiGrip KFG.D100.N241.FR08.S1.32-2.X, provide excellent weather and ozone resistance and are used for delicate or irregular objects. Silicone pads are chosen for high-temperature applications or where marking must be avoided. Nitrile pads resist oils and greases. Selection depends on the workpiece surface, temperature range, and chemical exposure. Pad shape (flat, bellows, multi-bellows) also affects grip on uneven or curved surfaces.

Yes, Piab vacuum generators are commonly used in automotive assembly for part picking, holding, and placement. The VGS 3040 series, for example, is designed for automotive industry applications and includes COAX MINI cartridges such as Pi12-2, Xi10-2, and Si08-3. These generators provide vacuum for robotic end-effectors, grippers, and other handling devices. They feature connections like 3/8 in G female and 1/8 in NPSF female, allowing integration with standard pneumatic fittings. The compact design and high flow rates make them suitable for fast cycle times in automated handling systems. When selecting a generator, consider required vacuum level, air consumption, and mounting constraints.

The Piab Kenos FlexiGrip foam gripper is used for gentle handling of delicate or irregular objects in industrial automation, packaging, and logistics. It consists of a round EPDM foam pad, such as the 100 mm diameter KFG.D100.N241.FR08.S1.32-2.X, with a 6 mm inlet. The foam conforms to uneven surfaces, distributing vacuum across the contact area to lift items without marking or deformation. Typical applications include picking and placing fragile components, irregularly shaped parts, and porous materials. The EPDM material offers good resistance to weathering and ozone. FlexiGrip grippers are often used in end-of-arm tooling for robots and collaborative robots.

For packaging applications, consider the workpiece material, weight, surface texture, and temperature. Multi-bellows pads like the BX20P.4E (37.08 mm diameter, 26.8 mm height) are effective for handling boxes, bags, and cartons because the bellows compress to conform to uneven surfaces. Polyurethane is a common material for its durability and resistance to wear. For delicate items, EPDM foam pads such as Kenos FlexiGrip may be better. Pad diameter should be sized to the load: larger pads provide more lifting force but may be limited by space. Inlet size (e.g., 6 mm) must match the vacuum generator. Also consider the number of pads per gripper and the vacuum level required.

Piab piINLINE vacuum generators, such as the MICRO model with COAX MICRO Xi cartridge (SKU 01.22.884), feature 6 mm tube female connections on both inlet and outlet. This allows direct insertion of 6 mm tubing for compressed air supply and vacuum output. The in-line design enables installation close to the point of use, reducing pressure drop and response time. Other piINLINE models may offer different connection sizes or thread types. When specifying, verify the tube outer diameter and the required flow rate (e.g., 0.49 scfm for the MICRO). These generators are suitable for automated material handling, packaging, and pick-and-place systems where space is limited.