New VCBL-GL Vacuum Blocks Expand CNC Clamping for Stone and Glass

Schmalz has released the latest generation of its VCBL-GL vacuum blocks, adding modular construction, expanded geometries, and upgraded sealing for CNC machining in glass, stone, and precision milling. The new design supports customizable heights, replaceable friction pads, and improved clamping stability, helping reduce slippage and maintenance costs. With variants for mirrored components and stronger performance in wet or contaminated environments, the updated VCBL-GL aims to give manufacturers a more adaptable and cost-efficient clamping solution.

The new VCBL-GL vacuum block clamps on glass. Image used courtesy of Schmalz

The New VCBL-GL Vacuum Blocks

Initially designed for use with the smooth table glass machining system from Bando Kiko, the new VCBL-GL is a preferred solution across the glass industry. The latest generation expands on this foundation to accommodate a broader application range, such as stone processing and multi-geometry CNC operations, while maintaining high precision and gentle handling of the workpiece.

With triple sealing technology, the new solution ensures a vacuum even under challenging conditions like smooth, dry, or wet machining as well as heavy contamination. Higher absorption of lateral force ensures reliable clamping during cutting, grinding, and load machining tasks. Its calibrated friction pad offers multidirectional traction to eliminate slipping and improve precision in machining. To allow for repeated recalibration without performance loss, the new block supports large profile depth, making the solution suitable for continuous production environments.

Modular Design for Easy Maintenance and Reduced Cost

One of the most notable improvements in the VCBL-GL vacuum block is its transition to a modular design. Users can swap friction pads, configure custom geometries, and adjust heights without having to replace the whole unit, thereby simplifying maintenance.

To match diverse industrial needs, the new generation of VCBL-GL vacuum block comes in a range of geometries, including square, circular, rectangular, and special geometries such as triangular variants. Aspects like custom heights can be produced by Schmalz upon request, and the upper suction plate can be machined to the exact specifications based on the customer data. The base plate is designed for clamping smooth tables, ensuring accuracy and stability across different workpiece geometries.

The new vacuum blocks feature a modular design with different geometry variants. Image used courtesy of Schmalz

For mirrored components, the VCBL-GL-C variant can clamp the surface using a single suction cap in its reversing function, making it ideal for stone and glass shops that often handle symmetrical workpieces. Schmalz has included an extensive catalog of spare parts to increase availability and reduce downtime across production lines. At the same time, the new design of the block is set to reduce the purchase price by up to 40%.

Industrial Grade Durability for Modern CNC Operations

Built from a durable aluminum structure, swapable sealing cords, and a high-precision height tolerance of ±0.05 mm, the new VCBL-GL is designed for reliable use in high-precision applications. The dual hose connections enable compatibility with CNC systems that need two independent vacuum circuits, supporting more advanced clamping methods.

With the growing need for reliable and flexible clamping technology in CNC machining industries, solutions like Schmalz's updated VCBL-GL stand in as a potential choice to cater to this need, offering adaptable geometry options, height variations, and demanding machining conditions packed in a cost-efficient clamping solution.