Pneumatic Suction Cups

Pneumatic suction cups are essential components in automated systems designed to lift, hold, and transport objects by using a controlled vacuum. Also referred to as vacuum suction cups or vacuum cups, these devices are commonly used in pick-and-place robotics, CNC operations, and industrial handling systems.

How Do Pneumatic Suction Cups Work

A pneumatic suction cup functions by creating a pressure differential between the inside of the suction cup and the external atmosphere. When placed against a surface, a vacuum is created using an external source — such as a vacuum pump, ejector, or compressed air-driven generator. This causes the air between the suction cup and the object to be evacuated, generating a holding force due to the higher atmospheric pressure acting from the outside.

The result is a secure, non-damaging grip on the object, which can then be lifted, rotated, or moved. Vacuum suction cups are effective across a variety of surface types, including glass, metal, cardboard, and certain textured materials, provided the seal is properly maintained.

What Is Holding Force

Holding force refers to the maximum amount of force a suction cup can resist before losing its grip. It is typically measured in Newtons (N) and is determined by several factors: the diameter of the vacuum cup, the quality of the vacuum (usually expressed in kPa), and the nature of the object’s surface (smooth, porous, or oily).

When selecting industrial suction cups, engineers must consider the object’s weight, orientation during handling, and potential accelerations in the system. Underspecifying the holding force can result in slippage or system failure, while overspecifying may increase system cost and complexity.

Types Of Suction Cups

The design of a suction cup significantly affects its suitability for different surfaces and materials. RS offers various types to support both general-purpose and specialised use.

Bellows Suction Cups

A bellow suction cup features one or more folds that allow it to compress and conform to uneven or angled surfaces. This design is ideal for irregular or sensitive objects and provides shock absorption, which is crucial in high-speed automation or when handling fragile items.

Deep Suction Cups

Deep suction cups have elongated lips that provide enhanced contact and sealing capability on curved or rounded surfaces. These are often employed in automotive and consumer goods manufacturing, where parts may not have flat surfaces suitable for standard vacuum suction cups.

Flat Suction Cups

Flat suction cups provide a large contact area for maximum stability and holding force. These are ideal for flat, smooth surfaces such as glass panes, metal sheets, and polished plastic components. Their simple design allows for rapid cycle times in pick-and-place systems.

What Are Suction Cups Made Of

Suction cups are available in a variety of materials, each suited for specific industrial environments:

• Silicone – Flexible and heat-resistant, ideal for the food industry, medical applications, and thermal suction cups exposed to high temperatures.
• Nitrile (NBR) – Oil- and abrasion-resistant, making it suitable for automotive and heavy-duty applications.
• Polyurethane (PUR) – Durable and wear-resistant with high elasticity, well-suited for repetitive, high-speed handling tasks.
• Fluororubber (FKM) – Excellent chemical resistance, perfect for pharmaceutical and chemical processing environments.
• Silicone rubber – Offers a balance of flexibility and temperature resistance, commonly used for rubber suction cups in precision handling.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Pneumatic Suction Cups

When selecting the appropriate pneumatic suction cup, several key considerations must be evaluated:

• Material Compatibility – Ensure the cup material does not degrade or react with the surface it will contact.
• Shape And Design – Match the object geometry (flat, curved, irregular) with the appropriate suction cup type.
• Holding Force Requirements – Calculate required force based on object weight, speed, and acceleration.
• Surface Conditions – Assess if the surface is smooth, porous, oily, or dusty, which may impact vacuum integrity.
• Operating Environment – Consider exposure to heat, chemicals, moisture, or contaminants.
• Vacuum Source Compatibility – Verify that your air powered suction cup setup can maintain consistent vacuum levels.
• Durability And Maintenance – Evaluate wear rates, replacement frequency, and ease of maintenance.

Applications Of Suction Cups

Suction cups are widely used across multiple industries due to their versatility and reliability:

• Material Handling And Automation – High-speed pick-and-place, conveyor transfer, palletising systems.
• Glass And Sheet Handling – Secure lifting of panes, metal sheets, and large flat objects.
• Electronics Manufacturing – Precision placement of delicate components and PCBs.
• Automotive Industry – Handling of body panels, windshields, and rubber-sealed components.
• Food Industry – FDA-compliant rubber suction cups for direct contact with unpackaged items.
• Medical And Pharmaceutical – Sterile handling of vials, trays, and surgical kits.
• General Industrial Use – Logistics, packaging lines, and warehousing automation.

The Leading Supplier and Distributor of Pneumatic Suction Cups in New Zealand

RS is your trusted source for high-quality pneumatic suction cups wide. We stock a comprehensive range from industry-leading manufacturers such as SMC, Festo, and Norgen.

We also carry electrical test and measurement peripherals like insulation resistance testers, digital insulation testers and sensor accessories. Whether you require precision for delicate electronics or robust solutions for heavy-duty lifting, RS offers reliable, high-performance options to meet your operational needs.

Explore our full range of pneumatic suction cups and accessories online today. For more details on ordering, delivery options, and technical support, please visit our delivery information page.