GIMATIC EQC Automatic Electric Tool Changer Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The GIMATIC EQC series is a fully automatic, plug-and-play electric tool changer designed for collaborative robot applications. It lets a cobot swap grippers and tools without operator intervention.
It runs on a 24 Vdc low-voltage supply through a 200 mm power cable with an 8-pin M8x1 connector, passes up to six user pneumatic connections, offers an optional ISO 9409 flange for direct robot mounting and has space for optional electrical connectors in a central through hole.
Quick Verdict
A practical way to give a cobot automatic tool changes. Electric locking avoids extra air lines for the coupling itself, and pneumatic pass-throughs feed the tools.
GIMATIC EQC Automatic Electric Tool Changer at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Automatic electric tool changer |
Target robots | Collaborative robots |
Supply | 24 Vdc |
Power cable | 200 mm with 8-pin M8x1 connector |
Pneumatic pass-throughs | Up to 6 user connections |
Robot interface | Optional ISO 9409 flange |
Electrical connectors | Optional, in central through hole |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
A tool changer has a robot-side master and a tool-side plate on each tool. In the EQC the coupling is driven electrically at 24 Vdc, so the cobot does not need a dedicated air valve just to lock and unlock tools.
Up to six pneumatic connections pass through the coupling to feed pneumatic grippers, vacuum generators or blow-off. Optional electrical connectors in the central through hole carry sensor and tool signals across the interface.
The ISO 9409 flange option bolts directly to the standard cobot wrist, keeping the stack short so less payload and reach are lost.
Integration and Selection
Plan a tool stand where tools are parked in a defined position, and program approach, lock, confirm and retract sequences. Verify lock status before the robot leaves the stand.
Count required air and signal channels per tool, and include the changer's weight and height in the cobot payload and TCP calculations.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Machine tending | Switching between grippers for different parts |
Assembly | Changing between gripper and screwdriver |
Packaging | Swapping vacuum and finger grippers |
Laboratories | Exchanging tools on a cobot workstation |
Functional Uses
Automatic gripper exchange
High-mix production
Pneumatic and signal pass-through
Unattended multi-tool operation
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Fully automatic plug-and-play
Low-voltage 24 Vdc operation
Up to 6 pneumatic channels
ISO 9409 flange option
Limitations
Payload capacity must be confirmed in GIMATIC data
Each tool needs a tool plate
Requires tool stand design
Who Should Consider the GIMATIC EQC Automatic Electric Tool Changer?
The EQC suits cobot cells that run several tools or part types and need automatic tool changes.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. GIMATIC prices the EQC by configuration. Budget for one master, a tool plate per tool, a tool stand and cabling.
Further Reading
GIMATIC EQC Automatic Electric Tool Changer FAQ
What is the GIMATIC EQC?
A fully automatic electric tool changer for collaborative robots.
What supply voltage does it use?
24 Vdc low voltage.
How many pneumatic connections does it pass?
Up to 6 user pneumatic connections.
Can it mount directly to a cobot?
Yes, with the optional ISO 9409 flange.
Can electrical signals be passed?
Optional electrical connectors fit in the central through hole.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from GIMATIC.
