With its high power density and a unique variety of options, the flagship SCHUNK PGN-plus-P is considered to be a benchmark all over the world in the field of universal grippers.

SCHUNK is expanding the product family of its legendary PGN-plus-P universal grippers: All sizes of the PGN-plus-P are now also available as ATEX version for the use in explosion hazard zones. By the end of the year, all sizes will also be available in dust-proof version as a part of the SCHUNK catalog range along with corresponding retrofit kits for existing grippers. What is special about this is that the dust-proof version can be combined with other equipment features such as ATEX, corrosion protection, high-temperature or precision version, so that users are more flexible in selecting the equipment variants.

Lifelong maintenance-free
With the PGN-plus-P, SCHUNK pursues a clear objective: More performance with the same interfering contour. The weight at the tool center point is to be reduced as much as possible with the powerful bolides. This facilitates dynamic processes, saves space, and reduces investment costs. The fact that the supporting dimension between the six weight-bearing shoulders of the patented multi-tooth guidance was increased two years ago by up to 40%, and the surface of the oval piston by around 15%, this has caused quite a stir on the market. It was suddenly possible to absorb higher maximum moments, insert longer fingers, and handle heavier components. Users quickly realized that this reserve capacity is also worthwhile even if the power limit is not reached. The new design of the SCHUNK megaseller minimizes wear and increases life span, even under normal load.



This is aided by the fact that the large diagonal pull surface of the wedge hook drive was enlarged even further in the new PGN-plus-P, minimizing wear, and increasing process reliability. In addition, circumferential lubricant pockets on the multi-tooth guidancee ensure that the sliding surfaces are continuously lubricated, and the grippers operate maintenance-free under clean operating conditions for their entire life span. Tests in SCHUNK's own product torture chamber show that the new modules have a significant edge over other products on the market, especially with respect to life span. Cycle times in the middle seven-digit range are not uncommon with the SCHUNK PGN-plus-P. But what is even more important from the user's point of view is the high process reliability of the modules, which is important for ensuring trouble-free system operations.

Large variety of options
The range of equipment of the PGN-plus-P family is extraordinary: SCHUNK has integrated possibilities for screw connections, supports, or centering by default. In order to ensure an even distribution of air purge in the interior of the grippers, the air purge connection was consciously positioned in the middle. On request, the modules are also available with an additional spring lock for mechanical gripping force maintenance, and with compensation units for compensating angular errors. The sensor program is also impressive. It ranges from inductive proximity switches with particularly easy-to-adjust control cams, completely integrable electronic magnetic switches, and flexible position sensors for detecting up to five position areas right up to high-resolution analog sensors, which enable measuring accuracies of up to 0.03 mm. SCHUNK also provides special radio sensor systems, which monitor the stroke of the gripper jaws wirelessly for use in machines, for applications in confined spaces, or aggressive environments where cables would endanger process stability.