Types of End Effectors

There are many types of end effectors that can be used in industrial robots.They are the key parts of the workpiece assembly, handling and palletizing tasks in conjunction with the robot.  For example, material handling is the most common robot task. Material handling tasks are low skilled and labour intensive for workers. The use of robots for material handling is ideal, not only for reducing worker labour, but also for increasing efficiency. Many types of end effectors can be used to help your robot perform handling tasks. We should select the most suitable end effector according to the material, shape and specific task of the workpiece.

Let’s divide the material of the workpiece into ferrous materials and non-conductive materials. For the handling of magnetically conductive materials we would prefer magnetic end effectors. Whatever the shape of the workpiece and whether it is drilled or not, magnetic end effectors perform perfectly. For handling non-magnetic flat workpieces we prefer vacuum suction cups, which are cheap and efficient. They are safe enough if the surface is smooth and not drilled.

In addition to flat shapes, workpiece shapes can also be very complex. The good thing is that we have other types of end effectors to choose from. For example, electric and hydraulic grippers. These 2 types of end effectors can be used for flat workpieces and workpieces with more complex shapes. They sometimes grip workpieces in a way that simulates a finger, using the principle of electrical or hydraulic pressure to maintain the gripping force. However, they can sometimes be complex or bulky in their own construction. Mechanical, electric and hydraulic grippers can handle workpieces of almost any material, but magnetic grippers are the more efficient choice when handling ferrous materials.

Types of magnetic end effectors

HVR MAG is a specialist manufacturer of magnetic end effectors. Our magnetic grippers are divided into three main categories: Magnetic Gripper for Articulated Robot, Magnetic Gripper for Gantry Robot and Welding Magnets for Automation. These magnetic end effectors can help you to process almost any ferrous material. For example, the magnetic gripper is used to transport the steel to the cutting machine, and after cutting the parts are sorted using the magnetic gripper. Welding magnets are used to hold the workpiece in place when welding parts.

HVR MAG’s magnetic end effectors all made of electro-permanent magnets. This technology is safe, energy efficient and highly effective. The electro-permanent magnet works by using an electric current to switch the magnetic field of the internal permanent magnet material, so that electricity is only used at the moment of magnetisation and demagnetisation. And there are virtually no subsequent maintenance costs.

All types of end effectors from HVR MAG can be customised to your requirements in terms of shape, size and magnetic strength. Feel free to contact us.