SMC offers the parallel grippers in three stroke variants, each with six different piston diameters of 10, 16, 20, 25, 32 and 40 millimetres. Their strokes range from 20 to 200 millimetres. Thanks to a modified groove shape on the housing of the MHL2 parallel grippers, the D-M9 series limit switches can be integrated directly if required. No tools or fastening elements are required. In order to be able to react as flexibly as possible to different installation situations, four grooves are available.

Depending on the model, up to ten percent weight was saved when the series was revised. Numerous options, such as a dust-protected version or the choice of opening or closing stroke, make it possible to tailor the parallel grippers precisely to the specific requirements of an application. All models are already equipped with improved dust protection as standard. To reliably prevent the ingress of microparticles up to ten micrometres, the parallel grippers can be ordered with an optional double dirt wiper. On all models, a dirt wiper ensures that a homogeneous lubricating film can constantly protect the surface. This is one of many prerequisites for a long service life. NBR and fluororubber are available as seal materials.

Michael Becker from Product Management at SMC sees all segments in which goods with parallel surfaces need to be lifted, held, transported or positioned as areas of application for the pneumatic parallel grippers. "Users of the previous version can be pleased," continues the SMC expert, "because the models of the old and new series are 100 percent compatible in terms of their attachment. This means that an "old for new" exchange is possible at any time without any problems."

Smooth running, powerful gripping
On both sides of the parallel grippers, oil-impregnated plastic guides with metal seals on the piston rods ensure particularly smooth running. The grippers in the MHL2 series, on the other hand, are powerful when it counts. This is ensured by a double piston inside, which generates an excellent holding force. The fingers of the gripper are synchronized using a special rack and pinion mechanism.

With numerous ordering options, SMC offers the possibility to configure the pneumatic parallel grippers of the MHL2 series to fit perfectly. In addition to the standard housing, a heat-resistant cylinder for applications up to 100 degrees Celsius is also available. Fluorocarbon rubber or EPDM can be selected as the sealing material. For users in the food industry, variants with fluorine grease or aluminum complex soap grease are available. In the highly dust-protected version, which reliably protects against the ingress of microparticles up to ten micrometres, the parallel grippers include a high-performance wiper with a stable lubrication function. as