FESTO Vacuum Technology and Generators

What is vacuum technology used for?

Vacuum allows workpieces to be picked up quickly and gently without mechanical gripper jaws. This is particularly beneficial for flat, sensitive or smooth parts such as sheet metal, glass, cartons, film or plastic parts. Typical applications include packaging machines, pick-and-place systems, robot grippers and wood and sheet metal processing. A vacuum application consists of a vacuum generator, suction cups, connection technology and often vacuum monitoring. This category includes VADMI and OVEM vacuum generators. They work on the ejector principle and create vacuum directly from compressed air, without a separate vacuum pump.

Versions and selection criteria

• Nozzle size: determines suction capacity and air consumption; on VADMI indicated by numbers such as 45, 95 or 300.
• Integrated functions: versions with valves for on/off and ejector pulse as well as with vacuum switch.
• Switching output: PNP or NPN, at FESTO often indicated by the suffix P or N.
• Compact or modular: compact generators such as OVEM combine several functions in one housing.
• Suction cups and accessories: cup shape and material to suit the workpiece surface and temperature.

Vacuum technology at KSK Components

At KSK Components you can combine FESTO vacuum generators, suction cups, valves, sensors and connection technology in one order, along with vacuum components from other manufacturers such as SMC. Registered business customers see their individual prices after logging in.

Frequently asked questions

What is the advantage of a vacuum generator over a pump?

Vacuum generators only require compressed air, are compact, low-wear and can be mounted directly on the gripper. Vacuum pumps are more suitable for large, continuous suction demand.

What does an ejector pulse do?

A short blast of compressed air quickly releases the vacuum so that the workpiece is set down promptly and precisely.