PHD Pneu-Connect for Universal Robots Review: Specs, Price and Applications
PHD Pneu-Connect is a cost-effective system for seamless pneumatic end-effector integration on Universal Robots cobots. Embedded directional control valves control the end effector through the robot's tool port.
It incorporates MAC valves and a control board, attaches easily to the arm, and is operated from the UR interface with the included Pneu-Connect URCap. Five PHD pneumatic gripper models are available as single-gripper kits, X2 kits provide two grippers, and analog sensors are optional on GRH kits.
Quick Verdict
The simplest way to run industrial pneumatic grippers on a UR cobot, with valves, software and grippers in one package.
PHD Pneu-Connect for Universal Robots at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Pneumatic end-effector integration system |
Robots | Universal Robots |
Valves | Embedded MAC directional valves |
Control | Robot tool port |
Software | Pneu-Connect URCap, included |
Gripper kits | Five PHD models; X2 dual kits |
Options | Analog position sensor for GRH kits |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
Pneu-Connect solves the main obstacle to pneumatic grippers on cobots: valves and wiring. It embeds directional control valves, using MAC valves and a control board, that are driven through the Universal Robots tool port, so no external valve bank or I/O wiring is needed.
The Pneu-Connect URCap software is included and updated, letting operators control the gripper from the UR teach pendant, and pre-made programs speed up setup.
Pneumatic grippers offer high power density and a strong performance-to-weight ratio, keeping end effectors light so they do not rob payload, and properly controlled air compressibility gives intrinsically safe, back-drivable actuation.
Integration and Selection
Choose the gripper kit for the part, mount Pneu-Connect on the UR, supply air and install the URCap.
Use pre-made programs as a starting point.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Machine tending | UR cobot loading |
Assembly | Pneumatic gripping on cobots |
Packaging | Pick-and-place |
Electronics | Small part handling |
Functional Uses
UR pneumatic gripping
Tool port valve control
URCap programming
Gripper kit integration
Pros and Cons
Advantages
No external valves
URCap included
Five gripper options
Light pneumatic tooling
Limitations
Universal Robots only
Needs compressed air
Numeric specs not on A3
Who Should Consider the PHD Pneu-Connect for Universal Robots?
Pneu-Connect suits UR users wanting pneumatic gripper force.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. PHD prices Pneu-Connect kits by size, options and quantity. Budget for fingers or tooling, mounting, air supply, sensors and commissioning as part of the complete installation.
Further Reading
PHD Pneu-Connect for Universal Robots FAQ
Which robots does Pneu-Connect support?
Universal Robots cobots.
How are valves controlled?
Through the robot's tool port.
Is software included?
Yes, the Pneu-Connect URCap.
How many gripper kits exist?
Five PHD models, plus X2 dual kits.
Whose valves are used?
MAC valves.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from PHD.
