WP13587003 Firestone Air Gripper

Manufacturer Description:

Firestone's AirGripper™ offers users a wide range of advantages over the more traditional pick and place work holding devices. With a simple variation of the air pressure in the gripper, you are able to conform the end effector to the diameter that is being handled and the force being applied to the application. This practice is most effective with applications that have sensitive, thin-walled, or fragile objects. The object being picked up does not require a circular configuration. Due to the elastomer bladder construction, it will conform to any shape.

Conform to Any Shape

The AirGripper™ end-effectors rubber construction allows a multiple number of shapes to be handled with one model.

One Gripper - Many Sizes

Firestone's end-effectors allows for a wide range of part sizes to be handled using just one size model. The AirGripper™ end-effector can grip around an object that is only 40% of the deflated diameter.

Fragile Handling

By controlling the amount of pressure within the bladder, Firestone end-effectors can handle delicate objects with the soft touch of rubber and air. The holding force is distributed over a greater surface area than a mechanical gripper, resulting in a soft and secure touch even with heavy loads.

High Load Capacity

The wide contact area associated with an AirGripper™ end-effector results in a greater load capacity. A mechanical gripper only touches the small area with its "fingers". Using more contact area results in a steady grip and greater load carrying ability.

Non-Wearing Contact

Rubber and air's soft touch allows glass and plastic objects to be handled without wearing the object surface. This is key for applications handling freshly molded test tubes, glass bottles, and photosensitive copier drums.

Wide Size Range

The standard Firestone AirGripper™ end-effector line can handle objects that range from 0.2 to 1.8 inches (5 to 45mm) in outside diameter.

No Lubrication Required

With no bearings or moving parts, the AirGripper requires no lubrication during its long durable life.

Low Cost

Firestone AirGripper™ end-effectors typically cost less than comparable mechanical grippers.

Long Life in a Dusty Environment

AirGripper™ end-effectors don't use seals or bearings, resulting in a durable gripper for long exposure to dusty environments