Packaging
New compact ejectors SCPi/SMPi from Schmalz
Wednesday 31. December 2008 - Vacuum generators in compact format with trend-setting functions
Energy efficiency, extended functions, better performance, compact and lightweight construction, very easy installation – these are the practical benefits of the new generation of compact ejectors of the SCPi/SMPi series for economical vacuum generation. With these new ejectors, the vacuum specialists J. Schmalz GmbH in D-72293 Glatten again set new standards, just as they did some years ago with the presentation of the compact ejectors of the series Schmalz CompactPump and MegaPump. Although the first two generations impressed their users with their functionality, performance and compact design, the new compact ejectors SCPi and SMPi comply with the same requirements and go one step further.
The light and compact construction has been retained and optimised, and the important “power blow-off” function has also been retained for the version SMPi, permitting the full inlet pressure to be used to blow off the gripped workpieces, thus improving the energy efficiency. No air escapes through the silencer, and this has a very positive effect on the blow-off times. The compressed-air connections of both version are still easily accessible, simplifying fast installation. While the connections on the new compact ejectors are still made of metal, the SCPi/SMPi series has additional dirt sieves in the connectors to extend decisively the operating lifetime of the vacuum generators. The new generation of compact ejectors also has an integrated controller with standardised M12 electrical connectors, a clearly visible display which is also used for setting up and the facility for controlling the suction function with an NO, NC or pulse contact. Furthermore, the new compact ejectors are fully prepared for integration into existing bus systems via IO-Link.
The benefits of these features speak for themselves: the IO-Link permits operating parameters to be set from an external controller and the automatic use of stored process data in cases where, for example, it becomes necessary to replace an ejector. The controller with M12 connections integrated into the compact ejector guarantees rapid installation without the need for additional materials. The clearly visible display permits simple operation and setting. The easily accessible compressed-air connectors ensure fast and secure connection of the hoses. The fact that the suction function can be controlled by an NO, NC or pulse contact, as desired, means that fewer pneumatic components are needed and reduces the time and costs needed for installation. In addition, the replaceable dirt sieves and open silencers mean that the new compact ejectors need very little maintenance and no external filters.
And if this is not enough, the following additional functions deserve mention: in the SCPi/SMPi series, the blow-off pulse can be implemented with an “internal blow-off, which means that the input signal for an “external blow-off” is no longer needed. With respect to the suction function, the pulse-contact feature deserves special attention, since it retains its last setting in the case of a power failure and does not generate unwanted energy consumption. If there is a power failure during the suction phase, the ejector remains active and holds the workpiece securely. If the power fails while the ejector is idle, it remains inactive. This does away with the waste of compressed- air which frequently occurs if a system is stopped with the “emergency off” switch.
Last but not least, the integrated IO-Link ability permits innovative process communication with the following benefits: the operating parameters can be set quickly and easily from an external PC, saving time and costs during installation and operation It also permits efficient process monitoring for timely detection of faults. Once the parameters have been set, they are stored in the IO-Link periphery, permitting rapid replacement of an ejector without re-adjustment. Further highlights such as compatibility and standardised connectors ensure easy replacement, use in existing systems and minimum installation and wiring costs. With the SCPi/SMPi series, Schmalz now offers innovative compact ejectors for trend-setting vacuum solutions in the area of automation technology.