Safe and absorbent connection

Whether for clamping, suction or transporting: The multi-stage vacuum generators in the ZL series from SMC are the industry's first choice for pick-and-place applications - and now make them even safer and more efficient thanks to the IO-Link extension. In combination with the high suction power and low weight, the ZL3/ZL6 models offer an economical and well-networked all-round solution for vacuum applications in Industry 4.0: easy to integrate, efficient to use, safely controllable and suitable for mounting on industrial robots in industries such as food, automotive or life science.

Modern pick-and-place applications in many places require small, light and powerful vacuum generators that perform reliably both on large workpieces and on moving robot parts. In order to further improve processes, safety and connectivity, automation specialist SMC has now equipped the two multi-stage vacuum generators ZL3/ZL6 in its ZL series with an IO-Link interface. Both models also score points with a maximum suction volume flow of 300 l/min (ZL3) or 600 l/min (ZL6) and are complemented by the ZL1 model (100 l/min, each ANR).

The IO-Link communication increases the level of automation and process reliability at the same time: In addition to remote monitoring and data usage in real time, malfunctions can also be detected more quickly. In summary, the ZL series provides an economical all-round solution that, thanks to the IO-Link extension, also helps reduce application errors and IT costs. As always, the high suction power shortens cycle times and thus increases the output, while the low weight enables lightweight machine designs. In short: The ZL series provides flexible all-round vacuum generators for Industry 4.0 - which save space, weight and costs while increasing efficiency, safety and connectivity.

Simple integration for more automation

In use, the IO-Link extension of the ZL series enables better control of device status and production processes. Thanks to sensor monitoring, malfunctions can be detected more quickly, which is a plus for process reliability. The vacuum generation can also be controlled remotely as required using optional pilot valves that can be mounted on the housing. This means that the compressed air supply can be switched off on the control side, which reduces energy costs.

The weight, which has already been reduced compared to previous models (e.g. by 44% for the ZL3/390 g compared to the previous ZL212/700 g), ensures a lower moment of inertia when the vacuum generator is used in moving applications (e.g. robot arm). This also enables the construction of particularly small and cost-effective machines.

Efficient suction power with saving functions

Air consumption and thus energy costs can be kept under control with the help of special features: All models in the ZL series have a nozzle design with a 3-stage diffuser, which can more than double the suction volume flow while maintaining the same compressed air supply (single version for ZL1, ZL3; double version for ZL6).

The ZL3/ZL6 models can optionally be equipped with a digital vacuum switch including an energy-saving function. The resulting self-controlling control circuit reduces air consumption by up to 91%: Vacuum is only generated when needed and the compressed air supply is automatically switched off when the desired vacuum level has been reached. This not only saves your wallet, but also the climate. Ready for the future of Industry 4.0

The installation of the ZL series is still quick: The double threaded connection (vacuum connection 1/2") allows the ZL3/ZL6 models to be connected directly without additional T-screw connections - this saves time and money. An optional adapter is available for mounting from below, for example for machine updates without changing the mounting hole (ZL1/ZL3). In addition, an adjustment needle for dampening the blow-off pulse enables sensitive components or workpieces to be gently released. The increased process reliability reduces the time and cost of potential production errors.

The all-round vacuum generators in the ZL series, which are even more versatile thanks to IO-Link, make pick-and-place applications safer and more efficient in numerous industries - from the food industry to automotive and life science. Small, light and powerful, they are ideal for assembly in moving robot applications and for suctioning glass panes (e.g. ZL1), clamping workpieces (e.g. ZL3) or transporting cardboard boxes (e.g. ZL6).