The GPP/GPD5000IL series, which is available as a parallel gripper (GPP5000IL) and a centric gripper (GPD5000IL), is currently available on the market in three different sizes: 5006IL, 5008IL and 5010IL. These have a maximum stroke of 6, 8 and 10 millimetres per jaw respectively. The series is now completed with the new sizes 5013IL, 5016IL and 5025IL, which cover maximum strokes of 13, 16 and 25 millimetres per jaw respectively.

The GPP/GPD5000IL pneumatic-electric hybrid grippers are equipped with an integrated pneumatic valve that is controlled via IO-Link. As there is no longer any tubing between the valve and piston that needs to be filled or emptied with each cycle, the grippers have a short reaction time. A sensor system is integrated into the grippers that detects the position of the gripper jaws in the range of +/- 0.05 millimeters. This not only enables process monitoring, but also, for example, the identification of workpieces based on their diameter. Different diameters are assigned to different workpiece numbers, which are then reported to the controller via IO-Link. In addition, a total of 32 workpiece data records can be programmed into the GPP/GPD5000IL grippers. Of course, an unlimited number of recipes can also be stored in the PLC, which can be continuously called up by the gripper as required.

The GPP/GPD5000IL saves three times over: firstly, thanks to their connection concept, they only require one air hose and one connection cable and no additional valve terminal. Secondly, they are energy-efficient thanks to the integrated valve and its integrated controller. The third aspect is the cost savings through predictive maintenance, which goes hand in hand with increased cost efficiency and production availability. Only a pneumatic hose and the IO-Link cable need to be connected for integration. The product communicates with the IO-Link master of the higher-level bus node or the PLC via the IO-Link interface.

In terms of mechanics, the hybrid grippers offer the same advantages as the other variants in the 5000 premium series. They can be used universally, are corrosion-protected and offer high gripping forces with long finger and gripper jaw lengths. Even the standard version is sealed to IP64, meaning that these grippers can also be used in difficult ambient conditions. Their high level of replacement accuracy allows them to be changed quickly without any significant interruption to production.

With their low coefficient of friction, extreme hardness and good emergency running properties, the robust, hard-coated guideways ensure that the grippers can handle 30 million cycles without maintenance, according to Zimmer.