Piab LC Level Compensators Review: Specs, Price and Applications
Piab LC level compensators, also called spring plungers, mount suction cups so they can move vertically and compensate for height differences. Their aluminium design is lighter than steel versions, reducing the weight of vacuum handling devices.
They offer an extra-long stroke, absorb shock and vibration, have a non-rotational design for oval and round cups and work with Piab's full fitting range including piGRIP. Sixteen variants cover different sizes, strokes and connections.
Quick Verdict
A small component with a big effect: gentle, height-tolerant cup landing and lighter tools that move faster.
Piab LC Level Compensators at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Level compensators (spring plungers) |
Material | Aluminium |
Stroke | Extra long versus traditional designs |
Rotation | Non-rotational |
Cups | Oval and round, incl. piGRIP |
Damping | Shock and vibration absorption |
Variants | 16 sizes, strokes and connections |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
When a gripper descends onto products of slightly different heights, rigid cups either miss the low ones or crush the high ones. Spring-loaded compensators let each cup stop on its product while the gripper continues to the programmed height.
A non-rotational shaft keeps oval cups aligned with the product, which a round plunger cannot guarantee.
Lighter aluminium bodies reduce the moving mass, allowing faster vacuum systems and higher capacity.
Integration and Selection
Choose stroke length for the height variation and thread or fitting for the cup. Use non-rotational versions with oval cups.
Account for the spring force in the gripper's approach and pick logic.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Glass | Handling sheets |
Plastics | Handling molded parts |
Automotive | Car part handling |
Wood and packaging | Handling delicate packages |
Functional Uses
Height compensation
Gentle cup landing
Vibration absorption
Oval cup alignment
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Lightweight aluminium
Extra-long stroke
Non-rotational
16 variants
Limitations
Adds height to the tool
Dimensions not listed on A3
Spring force must be considered
Who Should Consider the Piab LC Level Compensators?
LC compensators suit any vacuum tool handling products with height variation.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. Piab prices LC compensators by configuration, options and quantity. Budget for the complete solution, including mounting, vacuum or air supply, valves, sensors and commissioning, rather than the component alone.
Further Reading
Piab LC Level Compensators FAQ
What are level compensators?
Spring plungers that let suction cups compensate height differences.
What material are Piab LCs?
Aluminium.
Are they non-rotational?
Yes, suitable for oval and round cups.
How many variants exist?
16.
Are they compatible with piGRIP?
Yes.
How much do they cost?
Request a quote from Piab.
