Schmalz SBX-C Series User manual

www.schmalz.com
Innovative Vacuum for Automation
EN
Operating Instructions
Area gripping system SBX-C
30.10.02.00604/02 | 10.2017

www.schmalz.com
Note
These operating instructions were originally written in German and have been translated into English.
Store in a safe place for future reference.
We reserve the right to make technical changes. No responsibility is taken for printing or other types of
errors.
Published by
© J. Schmalz GmbH, 10.2017
This document is protected by copyright. J. Schmalz GmbH retains the rights established thereby.
Reproduction of the contents, in full or in part, is only permitted within the limits of the legal provisions
of copyright law. Any modifications to or abridgments of the document are prohibited without explicit
written agreement from J. Schmalz GmbH.
Contact
J. Schmalz GmbH
Johannes-Schmalz-Str. 1
D-72293 Glatten
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
[e-mail]
www.schmalz.com
For contact information for Schmalz companies and trade partners worldwide, see
www.schmalz.com/salesnetwork

Contents
Area gripping system SBX-C
www.schmalz.com
1Safety Instructions...............................................................................................5
1.1 Classification of safety instructions ...................................................................................5
1.2 Prohibition signs................................................................................................................6
1.3 Warnings ...........................................................................................................................6
1.4 Mandatory symbols ...........................................................................................................6
1.5 General safety instructions................................................................................................7
1.6 Intended use......................................................................................................................8
1.7 Note on the type plate .......................................................................................................8
2Product Description.............................................................................................9
2.1 Functional principle ...........................................................................................................9
2.2 Versions.............................................................................................................................9
2.2.1 Vacuum generation ...........................................................................................................9
2.3 Design .............................................................................................................................10
2.3.1 Ejector SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................10
2.3.2 Blower/pump SBX-C 200 ................................................................................................10
2.3.3 Blower/pump SBX-C 400 ................................................................................................10
2.3.4 Suction bar ......................................................................................................................11
2.3.5 Pneumatic cylinders ........................................................................................................11
2.3.6 Solenoid valve.................................................................................................................11
2.3.7 Dust filter .........................................................................................................................11
2.3.8 Connection plate..............................................................................................................12
2.3.9 Bottom of SBX-C.............................................................................................................12
2.3.10 Separating and ventilation cylinders ...............................................................................12
3Technical Data..................................................................................................13
3.1 Ejector SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................13
3.2 External vacuum generators (blowers/pumps) SBX-C 200 ............................................14
3.3 External vacuum generators (blowers/pumps) SBX-C 400 ............................................15
4Transport and Assembly ...................................................................................16
4.1 Delivery............................................................................................................................16
4.1.1 Included in delivery..........................................................................................................16
4.1.2 Check that the delivery is complete.................................................................................16
4.1.3 Report damage................................................................................................................16
4.2 Packaging........................................................................................................................16
4.3 Transport.........................................................................................................................17
4.4 Removing the system from the transport box .................................................................17
5Start of operations.............................................................................................18
5.1 Start of operations...........................................................................................................18
5.2 Suction bar ......................................................................................................................19
5.3 Pneumatic connection.....................................................................................................19
5.4 Vacuum connection.........................................................................................................19
5.5 Solenoid valves ...............................................................................................................19
5.6 Electrical connection .......................................................................................................20

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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6Operation ..........................................................................................................21
6.1 General notes..................................................................................................................21
6.2 Activation.........................................................................................................................23
6.2.1 Ejector SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................23
6.2.2Blower/pump SBX-C 200 ................................................................................................24
6.2.3 Blower/pump SBX-C 400 ................................................................................................25
7Storage .............................................................................................................26
8Troubleshooting ................................................................................................27
9Maintenance......................................................................................................28
9.1 General maintenance instructions...................................................................................28
9.2 Maintenance Schedule....................................................................................................29
9.3 Cleaning agents...............................................................................................................30
9.4 Blower/pump....................................................................................................................30
9.5 Ejector .............................................................................................................................30
9.6 Dust filter .........................................................................................................................30
9.7 Sealing mat......................................................................................................................30
9.8 Check valves...................................................................................................................30
9.8.1 Check ..............................................................................................................................31
9.8.2 Cleaning ..........................................................................................................................31
9.9 Separating/ventilation cylinders.......................................................................................31
9.9.1 Replacing the seals on the separating/ventilation cylinders ...........................................31
9.10 Checking the system for leaks ........................................................................................31
10 Spare and Wearing Parts..................................................................................32
10.1 Ejector SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................33
10.2 Blower SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................34
10.3 Blower SBX-C 400 ..........................................................................................................35
11 Accessories.......................................................................................................36
11.1 Accessories set ...............................................................................................................36
11.2 Optional accessories.......................................................................................................36
12 Pneumatic Circuit Diagram................................................................................37
12.1 Ejector SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................37
12.2 Blower SBX-C 200 ..........................................................................................................37
12.3 Blower SBX-C 400 ..........................................................................................................38
13 Other Applicable Documents.............................................................................39

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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1 Safety Instructions
1.1 Classification of safety instructions
Danger
This warning informs the user of a risk that will result in death or serious injury if it is not avoided.
DANGER
Type and source of danger
Consequence
►
Remedial action
Warning
This warning informs the user of a risk that could result in death or serious injury if it is not avoided.
WARNING
Type and source of danger
Consequence
►
Remedial action
Caution
This warning informs the user of a risk that could result in injury if it is not avoided.
CAUTION
Type and source of danger
Consequence
►
Remedial action
Attention
This warning informs the user of a risk that could result in damage to property if it is not avoided.
ATTENTION
Type and source of danger
Consequence
►
Remedial action
General notes
This symbol is used when important notes and information regarding use of the machine/the
system/the device are provided.
Note/Information

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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1.2 Prohibition signs
Explanation of the prohibition signs used in the operating instructions.
Icon
Description
Icon
Description
Do not stand under suspended loads
1.3 Warnings
Explanation of the warning symbols used in the operating instructions.
Icon
Description
Icon
Description
Pollution warning
Crushing injury warning
Suspended load
Hand injury warning
Electrical voltage
-
-
1.4 Mandatory symbols
Explanation of the mandatory symbols used in the operating instructions.
Icon
Description
Icon
Description
Observe the instructions
Wear eye protection
Use protective footwear
Activate prior to maintenance or repair

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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1.5 General safety instructions
The system is state-of-the-art and operationally reliable. However, dangers may arise.
WARNING
Failure to follow the safety instructions
Personal injuries and damage to the system
►
The operating instructions contain important information on using the system.
Read the operating instructions thoroughly and keep them for later reference!
►
The system must only be operated by trained personnel who have read and
understood the operating instructions.
►
The operating instructions are tailored to the scope of delivery from Schmalz.
These operating instructions do not take into account any modifications to the
system made by the customer.
►
The system may only be connected and operations started once the operating
instructions have been read and understood.
►
Use only the connections, mounting holes and attachment materials that have
been provided.
►
Carry out mounting or removal only when the device is in an idle,
depressurized state.
►
Only qualified specialist personnel, mechanics and electricians may perform
the installation. Qualified specialist personnel are persons who have received
technical training and have the knowledge and experience –including
knowledge of corresponding regulations –necessary to enable him or her to
recognize possible dangers and implement the appropriate safety measures
while performing tasks.
►
General safety regulations, European standards and VDE guidelines must be
observed and complied with.
►
The gripper is to be used in combination with an automated handling system
(gantry/robot). For this reason, you must also follow the safety regulations of
the corresponding system.
►
Personnel and animals are not permitted to sit or stand in the transport area.
►
Transporting persons or animals is prohibited!
►
No person may sit or stand in the danger zone while the machine or plant is in
automatic mode.
►
It is not permitted to make changes to system components.
►
The system must only be operated at the operating voltage specified for the
components.
►
Make sure that the workplace and surroundings are kept clean.
►
Protect the components from damage of any kind.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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WARNING
Failure to follow the safety instructions
Personal injuries and damage to the system
►
Compressed air or a vacuum could cause closed containers to explode or
implode. Check the products before use.
►
Do not apply suction to any dangerous dusts, oil mists, vapors, aerosols, etc.
►
Only use suitable and approved vacuum filters.
►
Do not look into the exhaust air flow of the vacuum generator.
1.6 Intended use
The system is used to lift and transport workpieces such as lumber, wooden components, furniture
parts or similar materials that allow suction. Neutral gases in accordance with EN 983 are approved as
evacuation media. Neutral gases include air, nitrogen and inert gases. The device is not suitable for
manual handling. Operations using the device must take place in a secure area where no people are
allowed to enter.
The system is mounted on the load suspension provided by the customer using the T-slots designated
for this purpose. The customer also provides a control device.
The system can only be used when hung vertically. (You must consult the manufacturer regarding
tilted positions, as well as pivoting or tipping motions.)
1.7 Note on the type plate
The type plate contains important information about the device. The type plate is firmly attached to the
exterior of the device.
The type plate contains the following information:
- Type
- Part number
- Year of manufacture
- Serial number
The type, part number and year of manufacture are important information for identifying the device.
They must always be specified when ordering replacement parts and making warranty claims or other
inquiries about the device.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
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2 Product Description
2.1 Functional principle
The system lifts the defined products using a vacuum and is designed to customer requirements. The
system is a variable gripping system whose length and design can be adapted to customer
requirements. It can be used to lift layers of boards, planks or similar workpieces of various sizes
without adapting the suction area to the specific workpiece.
Each individual suction opening in the system is equipped with a check valve that automatically closes
the suction opening when it is not in use. This allows the suction openings that are in use to achieve a
higher vacuum level, even if only part of the system’s overall surface is covered.
The system achieves its maximum load-bearing capacity when all the suction openings are covered
with workpieces.
The automated handling system to which the system was attached by the customer is responsible for
motion in the various axes.
2.2 Versions
The system is available in 3 different versions with different overall widths and types of vacuum
generation:
SBX-C 200 (width: 200 mm), single beam with integrated vacuum generation
SBX-C 200 (width: 200 mm), single beam with connection for external vacuum generation
SBX-C 400 (width: 400 mm), double beam with connection for external vacuum generation
The length can vary for all versions of the system.
2.2.1Vacuum generation
The system can be operated using an ejector (Venturi effect), a blower or a pump. You can find a
more detailed description of each vacuum generator in section 13, Other Applicable Documents.
The system is generally connected to the external vacuum generation using a vacuum hose.
The vacuum generator (ejector version) has the optimal settings ex works and these settings must not
be changed.
Adjustments to the vacuum generator made by employees without the necessary qualifications can
reduce the device’s load-bearing capacity or cause unexpected downtime.
WARNING
Adjustments to the vacuum generator by unqualified employees
Serious personal injury
►
Do not change the vacuum generator’s settings.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
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2.3 Design
2.3.1Ejector SBX-C 200
1. Cover
2. Connection plate
3. T-slot
4. Main body with
integrated
function modules
5. Sealing mat
6. Vacuum ejector
7. Dust filter (2.3.7)
2.3.2Blower/pump SBX-C 200
1. Cover
2. Connection plate
3. T-slot
4. Main body with
integrated
function modules
5. Sealing mat
6. Vacuum connection
7. Cover
2.3.3Blower/pump SBX-C 400
1. Cover
2. Connection plate
3. T-slot
4. Main body with
integrated
function modules
5. Sealing mat
6. Vacuum connection
7. Cover with
venting unit

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
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2.3.4 Suction bar
The suction bar is used to lift the item. The system can be connected to the vacuum generation
(blower, pump) using a vacuum hose.
The suction bar must be completely covered with workpieces to achieve the system’s maximum load-
bearing capacity.
2.3.5 Pneumatic cylinders
Pneumatic cylinders are used to activate the separating cylinder (see 2.3.10), and a ventilation
cylinder for blower/pump operation (see 2.3.10).
2.3.6 Solenoid valve
The cylinder(s) is/are controlled by a pneumatic valve. The valve is switched electrically (DC 24 V)
using an external controller.
2.3.7 Dust filter
(Optional; integrated at the factory for ejectors)
A dust filter is installed between the system and the vacuum generator to filter out dust.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
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2.3.8 Connection plate
1. Multi-pole plug
2. Pneumatic connection
3. Vacuum gauge (manometer)
2.3.9Bottom of SBX-C
1. Sealing mat
2. Check valve
2.3.10 Separating and ventilation cylinders
1. Separating cylinder
2. Ventilation cylinder

TECHNICAL DATA
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3 Technical Data
3.1 Ejector SBX-C 200
Technical Data
Type
Vacuum
generator
Numbe
r of
suctio
n cells
Air
consumption
[l/min]
Max.
suction
flow
[l/min]
Max. degree
of
evacuation
[%}
Suction
force** [N]
Weight
[kg]
SBX-C 1040x200 35 25
SEM-150*
Ejector
29
640
1400
80
2400
25
SBX-C 1250x200 35 25
SEM-150*
Ejector
35
640
1400
80
3000
28
*Sound level 78 dB(A)
**With a vacuum of -0.25 bar and a fully covered gripper
Dimensions
Type
Dimensions
H
H1
B
B1
L
L1
L2
L3
SBX-C 1040x200 35 25 SEM-150
125
217
200
225.5
1040
1234
41
198
SBX-C 1250x200 35 25 SEM-150
125
217
200
225.5
1250
1444
41
198
Grid spacing

TECHNICAL DATA
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3.2 External vacuum generators (blowers/pumps) SBX-C 200
Technical Data
Type
Vacuum
generator
Number
of
suction
cells
Air
consumpt
ion [l/min]
Max.
suction
flow
[l/min]
Max. degree of
evacuation
[%}
Suction
force* [N]
Weight
[kg]
SBX-C 1040x200
35 25
Blower/pump
29
**
**
**
2400
23
SBX-C 1250x200
35 25
Blower/pump
35
**
**
**
3000
26
*With a vacuum of -0.25 bar and a fully covered gripper
**Depending on the vacuum generation used
Dimensions
Type
Dimensions
H
H1
B
L
L1
L2
L3
SBX-C 1040x200 35 25 SEM-150
125
187.5
200
1040
1234
123
198
SBX-C 1250x200 35 25 SEM-150
125
187.5
200
1250
1444
123
198
Grid spacing

TECHNICAL DATA
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3.3 External vacuum generators (blowers/pumps) SBX-C 400
Technical Data
Type
Vacuum
generator
Number
of
suction
cells
Air
consumpt
ion [l/min]
Max.
suction
flow
[l/min]
Max. degree of
evacuation
[%}
Suction
force* [N]
Weight
[kg]
SBX-C 1040x400
35 25
Blower/pump
57
**
**
**
4500
46
SBX-C 1250x400
35 25
Blower/pump
69
**
**
**
5900
52
*With a vacuum of -0.25 bar and a fully covered gripper
**Depending on the vacuum generation used
Dimensions
Type
Dimensions
H
H1
B
L
L1
L2
L3
SBX-C 1040x400 35 25 SEM-150
125
187.5
400
1040
1234
123
198
SBX-C 1250x400 35 25 SEM-150
125
187.5
400
1250
1444
123
198
Grid spacing

TRANSPORT AND ASSEMBLY
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4 Transport and Assembly
4.1 Delivery
4.1.1Included in delivery
Refer to the order confirmation for specific details about the scope of delivery.
The delivery documents list the shipping weight and dimensions. Note the system weight and
dimensions when choosing suitable lifting equipment.
Note
The operating instructions are part of the system and must be kept with the system every time it is
relocated.
4.1.2Check that the delivery is complete
Using the enclosed delivery documents, check the entire shipment to ensure that it is complete. Also
refer to our Terms and Conditions of Sale and Delivery.
4.1.3Report damage
After delivery of the shipment, damage due to faulty packaging or transport must be reported
immediately to the carrier and J.Schmalz GmbH.
4.2 Packaging
The system is transported in a transport box produced specifically for the system.
ATTENTION
Incorrect disposal of the system or individual components
Environmental damage
►
Disposal according to national guidelines.

TRANSPORT AND ASSEMBLY
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4.3 Transport
DANGER
Transport via moving loads
Improper unloading and transport can result in personal injuries and damage to
property. Moving loads can tip over, fall or crush people. When lifting transport
units, parts can fall over, move or fall out.
►
Only trained personnel who have received safety instructions may unload and
transport the items.
►
Use suitable lifting equipment and mounting equipment.
►
Ensure that all persons leave the danger zone before the transport units are
lifted.
►
Wear protective footwear.
4.4 Removing the system from the transport box
Open the transport box carefully. First open the lid to allow you to see the position of the system in full.
Attach a suitable lifting device to the system.
Remove all attachments which fasten the system to the transport box.
Now lift the system so that it is freely suspended when the transport box is removed.
If you did not use the final lifting device (robot/gantry) to lift the system out of the
transport box and you need to lower it, place battens at the end of the suction bar
under the lid.
ATTENTION
Storing the system on suction elements
Material damage to the system
►
The system may only be stored as described in the operating instructions.

START OF OPERATIONS
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5 Start of operations
5.1 Start of operations
WARNING
System set-up by untrained personnel
Serious personal injury
►
The system must only be set up by trained personnel who have read and
understood the operating instructions.
DANGER
Moving systems/parts throughout the production system during setup at
the workplace
Danger to life and limb
►
The production system must be stopped in the area where the system is being
set up
►
Switch off the system’s voltage during setup
►
The production system must be secured to prevent activation during setup.
►
The system may only be set up at the workplace in accordance with the
operating instructions.
WARNING
Failure to observe the work safety instructions
Personal injuries and damage to the system
►
The device may only be started up in a secure area which no people are
allowed to enter.
►
Never lift loads at an angle and never drag them.
Do not tear off stuck loads.
►
Only pick up and lift suitable loads (check inherent stability and surface
density).
►
Only deposit workpieces on clear, even surfaces
Danger of slipping
►
Do not release the load until it rests completely and safely on a secure surface.
►
Do not come close to the load when releasing/depositing it and do not touch it.

START OF OPERATIONS
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WARNING
Open or closed vacuum openings
Eyes can be sucked in
►
Keep your distance.
►
Do not look into vacuum openings.
►
Wear protective glasses.
5.2 Suction bar
The system is mounted on the load suspension provided by the customer (e.g. a gantry crane or
robot) using the T-slots designated for this purpose. The customer also provides a control device.
The suspension should be designed to allow the system to adapt flexibly to the workpieces when it is
placed on them (e.g. spring-mounted or floating suspension).
The system must be attached securely, taking the weight of the system and its maximum load-bearing
capacity into account.
5.3 Pneumatic connection
The compressed air is connected to the valve plate using the pneumatic coupling included in delivery.
Requirements for the compressed air provided by the customer:
Dry, filtered air according to ISO 8573-1:2010 [7:4:4]
Constant operating pressure: 6 bar.
Standard nominal diameters for the pneumatic coupling:
SBX with external vacuum generation DN 7.2
If you select a supply hose that is too small, not enough compressed air will be supplied to the
pneumatic elements (ejector, etc.) for optimal operation.
5.4 Vacuum connection
In systems with external vacuum generation, a hose that is suitable for vacuum applications must be
connected to the installed nozzle and secured with a suitable hose clamp. The supply hose should
have the same nominal diameter as the installed nozzle. Reducing the nominal diameter of the hose
can impair the system’s functionality.
5.5 Solenoid valves
The solenoid valves control the separating and ventilation cylinders. The customer is responsible for
the control system. The pin assignments for control of the solenoid valves can be found in the pin
assignment diagram (5.6).
The functional sequence is described in detail for each suction bar type. (See 6.2)

START OF OPERATIONS
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5.6 Electrical connection
The customer is responsible for electrical connection of the blower or pump on site. The electrical
connection for controlling the pneumatic valves is made using a multi-pole plug included in delivery
(24 V DC).
DANGER
Inappropriate voltage supply
Electric shock, destruction of the electrical components
►
Connection work may only be carried out by a qualified electrical specialist.
►
The system must incorporate safe electrical cut-off of the power supply in
compliance with EN60204.
►
Do not connect or disconnect the plug connectors when voltage is applied.
Observe the separate operating instructions when connecting the vacuum
generator (blower/pump).
Pin
Designation
Ejector SBX-C 200
Blower/pump SBX-C 200
Blower/pump SBX-C 400
1
Magnetic valve 1
(separating cylinder)
(black/DC 24 V)
Magnetic valve 1 (separating
cylinder)
(black/DC 24 V)
Magnetic valve 1
(separating cylinder)
(black/DC 24 V)
2
Magnetic valve 2 (blow off)
(black/DC 24 V)
Magnetic valve 2 (ventilation
cylinder) (black/DC 24 V)
Magnetic valve 2
(ventilation cylinder)
(black/DC 24 V)
3
Magnetic valve 3 (vacuum
generator) (black)
n.c.
n.c.
4
n.c.
n.c.
n.c.
5
0 V (blue) (valve 1 + 2)
0 V (blue) (valve 1 + 2)
0 V (blue) (valve 1 + 2)
6
val (blue) (valve 3)
n.c.
n.c.
ATTENTION
Incorrectly connected compression fitting
Reduced suction capacity/leakage
►
The multi-pole plug’s compression fitting must be sealed securely and
correctly during installation of the customer’s cable.