SMC Releases New Vacuum Ejector and Vacuum Pump Systems

SMC has recently released its new ZK2_A series with exciting new features to help enhance the valves’ functionality. Vacuum ejectors are a common piece of equipment found on many pick-and-place robotics and other applications where vacuum is necessary. They often fit into a small footprint, sometimes they are small enough to fit directly onto a 6-axis robotic arm, giving users a much smaller footprint than a vacuum pump.

The new ZK2_A series from SMC features new functionality over some of their previous vacuum ejector lineups. The ejectors are designed with energy savings in mind helping manufacturers to reduce compressed air use. The ejectors also include increased suction flow compared to similar models on the market. Increased airflow speed is often useful in applications where speed is necessary.

 

The new ZK2_A from SMC can maintain a vacuum even in the event of a power failure. Image used courtesy of SMC

 

Features of the ZK2_A Series Ejectors

SMC has designed the ZK2_A series as a 2-stage ejector, giving it certain benefits over single-stage ejectors. Multi-stage ejectors can create a vacuum at higher rates than single-stage ejectors, but they are unable to create as much negative pressure. This gives them a higher efficiency as well, and in the case of the new ZK2_A, a 93% reduction in compressed air consumption is possible.

In addition to increased efficiency, the ejectors show a 50% increase in suction flow over other SMC single-stage ejectors. The valves contain a mechanism to stop airflow to the valve once the appropriate vacuum is reached. This helps to save compressed air and reduces noise pollution in the factory when the valves are no longer receiving air.

 

A multistage ejector consists of single-stage ejectors combined in series. Image used courtesy of SMC

 

In the event of a power failure, the valves can hold a vacuum, helping to reduce the chances of lost product, or damage in the event of a power failure. Ejector control is made simple with the use of only a single communication line, helping to simplify wiring for installation and reduce wiring clutter. Communication with the ejector enables users to read device information and parameter batch settings.

Four different wiring variations are possible, the latest addition being the possibility to wire the ejectors with the use of a fieldbus system. In addition to fieldbus wiring, the devices can be wired through the use of D-sub connectors, flat ribbon cable connectors, or through individual device wiring.

A high-noise reduction silencer is available to help improve suction flow and reduce noise pollution from the expulsion of compressed air out of the ejector. This helps to reduce the ejector's noise levels to 46 dB and improve suction flow by up to approximately 20%.

 

Efficient Consumption of Air Supply

SMC has added their latest multistage ejector called the ZK2_A series to help customers improve plant efficiencies, with each ejector providing the potential to save 90 USD per year in energy savings. In addition, maintenance is made easier with no-tool replacement for the filter element. SMC hopes the new ejectors will provide lasting value for manufacturers and logistics operations across the board.