Suction Cups & How do they work?
Suction cups mould to the shape of the object they are handling without causing any damage. A suction cup works by having less air pressure on one side of the cup than the other side of the suction cup. When pressure is put onto the suction cup it forces air out of the area, creating a vacuum. The vacuum created enables you to move and lift any product. Suction cups will not work when there is a low atmospheric pressure.
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So, when the suction cup contacts the surface of an object, it activates a vacuum generator (such as a blower, vacuum ejector or vacuum pump) this draws air from the space between the cup and the object. As soon as the atmospheric pressure is greater than the pressure between the object and the cup, atmospheric pressure presses the suction cup against the item, holding it firmly. This Holding force is the amount of force required to move an object. This Force is measured in Newtons (N) and when looking for the right suction cup, ensure you choose one that will lift, move the weight and size of the object.
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Suction Cup Types Available
Bellows - ideal for concave and convex shapes. They require minimum pressure. Work on slanted surfaces. Absorbs any alignment problems.
Deep – suitable for curved objects. Enhanced grip.
Flat - suitable for glass, metal sheets and cardboard.
Materials Available
Suction cups are manufactured from a range of materials and perform well in many environments from light duty to heavy industrial. We can supply:
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Silicone
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Nitrile
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Silicone rubber
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Polyurethane (PUR)
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Fluororubber