Vacuum Cups for Reliable Gripping, Lifting and Transfer
Vacuum suction cups provide a simple and versatile way to grip products in automated handling systems. PneumaticHub offers flat, bellows, oval and specialty cup styles in multiple elastomer materials for applications ranging from high-speed packaging to metal, glass and food handling.
Cup geometry and material strongly influence gripping performance. Flat cups are often selected for fast handling of smooth rigid surfaces, while bellows cups can provide compliance for uneven heights or curved parts. Material selection should consider wear, temperature, marking, food contact and chemical exposure.
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Suction Cup Styles
- Flat suction cups
- Single-bellows suction cups
- Multiple-bellows suction cups
- Oval suction cups
- Oval bellows suction cups
Available Cup Materials
- NBR / nitrile rubber
- Silicone rubber
- FDA-compliant silicone on applicable models
- Metal-detectable silicone on applicable models
- Polyurethane
Common Applications
- Packaging machines
- Sheet metal handling
- Glass transfer
- Plastic part handling
- Food and beverage packaging
- Robotic end-of-arm tooling
- Automated assembly
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a vacuum suction cup work?
When air is evacuated from beneath the cup, atmospheric pressure creates a holding force that presses the cup against the product surface.
What is the difference between flat and bellows suction cups?
Flat cups are typically stiff and fast for smooth surfaces, while bellows cups provide extra compliance and can accommodate height variation or curved products.
Which suction cup material should I choose?
Selection depends on surface marking, abrasion, temperature, food-contact requirements, chemical exposure and desired service life.
What size suction cup do I need?
Cup diameter is selected from the required holding force with appropriate safety factors for acceleration, orientation, leakage and surface condition.
Can suction cups handle porous products?
Yes, but porous products can leak air and may require higher vacuum flow or specialized cup/gripper designs.
Are food-grade suction cups available?
FDA-compliant silicone options are available in suitable product ranges for food-contact applications.
Can suction cups be used on glass or sheet metal?
Yes. These are common applications, provided cup style, material and vacuum level are correctly selected.
