Suction Cups

What is a Suction Cup?
Suction cups are also known as Vacuum cups, Vacuum pads, suckers, and Pneumatic suction cups plus they are often used as suction grippers. Suction cups attach to various surfaces from flat to uneven and provide a safe and secure way to move and hold products, automatically or manually. The suction cups mould to the shape of the object they are handling without causing any damage. Suction cups are manufactured from a range of materials and perform well in many environments from light duty to heavy industrial.

How do Suction Cups work?
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. You ensure that the suction cup surface is clean and free from dirt or grit ensuring maximum grip.

How Do Pneumatic suction cups work?
When a suction cup contacts the surface of an object, it activates a vacuum generator (such as a blower, vacuum ejector or vacuum pump) that draws air from the space between the cup and the item. 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.

What is Holding Force?
Holding force is the amount of force required to move an object. This is measured in “Newtons” (N) and when looking for the right suction cup for your use ensure you choose a suction cup that will lift, move the weight and size of the object.

What are Suction Cups made of?
Suction and vacuum cups are made from various material to suit any environment, from the home to industry.
• Rubber
• Silicone
• Nitrile
• Polyurethane
• Fluororubber
• Silicone rubber

Materials suction cups will handle
• Metal
• Glass
• Plastic
• Wood
• Paper
• Food
• Media
• Printing

Suction Cup Types Available

Bellows – excellent for concave and convex shapes. Require minimum pressure. Work on slanted surfaces. Absorbs any alignment problems.

Deep – Excellent with curved objects. Enhanced grip.

Flat - Excellent for glass, metal sheets and cardboard.
Any flat or smooth surfaced material.

Suction cups are available in a range of shapes, sizes and design and will handle most products. There is a suction and vacuum cup suitable for every industry and application.