Grasping and lifting but please be flexible, economical and powerful. Schmalz from Glatten in Baden-Württemberg showed at Fachpack what modern automation can look like: with smart components that pack food just as securely as cardboard boxes. And with handling systems that can be converted in no time at all.

The new FA-X/FA-M vacuum flat gripping systems move whatever comes their way e.g. cartons, bags and cans. Thanks to integrated or external vacuum generation, they can be used flexibly. The smart version delivers process data directly to the display or via an app. A nozzle system saves up to 80 percent energy, and the sealing foam can be changed quickly. Users achieve maximum efficiency with minimum consumption optimised for sustainable processes and versatile material handling.

Whether flat, round or irregularly shaped: Schmalz's mGrip finger gripper handles sensitive food products reliably from croissants to chicken legs. Its soft, modular fingers grip tirelessly. The system is lightweight, meets hygienic design requirements, fits on cobots and is easy to configure. This makes it suitable for fast pick-and-place tasks in the food industry and wherever sensitive products need to be moved automatically.

The under-slide gripper allows open boxes and fragile ready-to-shelf packaging to be handled safely without slipping or deformation. It can be used, for example, for single-type end-of-line palletising after filling, but also for mixed palletising tasks in logistics centres. Schmalz combines vacuum technology with a support plate for this purpose. Thanks to its load capacity of 25 kg, the underfeed gripper is suitable for many requirements and grips securely both horizontally and vertically.

IO-Link Wireless avoids rigid cabling in production. The wireless solution transmits data contactlessly between sensors, actuators and controls reliably, without interference and without complex installation. The system really shows its strengths in robotics: flexible grippers, many axes, tight installation spaces. Schmalz supports the protocol with numerous solutions. This saves users time, space and money and allows retrofitting at any time without conversion.

With the JumboFlex vacuum tube lifter, users can ergonomically handle loads of up to 50 kg. Thanks to the intuitive handle and fast cycle time, they can move sacks, crates or boxes effortlessly. The new generation features modular grippers and a high cycle frequency. This makes it suitable for logistics, production and packaging.

For loads up to 300 kg, the JumboErgo tube lifter impresses with its control element. This imitates a motorcycle throttle and ensures sensitive control. With its multiple suction grippers, the vacuum tube lifter also adapts to unstable workpieces. Its compact design, fast 90-degree rotation function and modular gripper system make it an efficient solution for production and logistics.