Piab Vactivator Vacuum Cylinder Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The Piab Vactivator is a vacuum cylinder actuated by vacuum alone. It extends and retracts suction cups in picking applications with a fast, self-adjusting stroke and no position sensor.
It retracts immediately when the cup contacts an object, without the press force of a spring plunger or level compensator, which makes it ideal for sensitive surfaces and for picking paper sheets.
Quick Verdict
An elegant solution for gentle, fast picking: the same vacuum that grips the part also moves the cup.
Piab Vactivator Vacuum Cylinder at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Vacuum-actuated cylinder |
Actuation | Vacuum only |
Stroke | Fast, self-adjusting |
Sensors | No position sensor needed |
Contact force | Lower than spring plungers or level compensators |
Applications | High-speed picking, paper sheets, sensitive surfaces |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
When vacuum is applied, the cylinder extends the cup toward the product; as soon as the cup seals, vacuum inside the cup and cylinder retracts it, lifting the part. No separate valve or sensor coordinates the motion.
Because there is no spring pushing the cup, press force on the product is minimal, avoiding marks and deformation on paper and soft packaging.
Self-adjusting stroke means products at slightly different heights are picked without repositioning.
Integration and Selection
Fit Vactivators between the gripper and cups where gentle contact or variable heights matter. Size the vacuum source for both cylinder and cup.
Validate stroke on the actual product stack.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Printing | Picking paper sheets |
Packaging | Handling bags and leaflets |
Electronics | Gentle film handling |
Food | Soft package handling |
Functional Uses
Gentle cup extension
Sheet picking
Height compensation
Sensorless actuation
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Vacuum only, no extra air line
Minimal press force
Self-adjusting stroke
No sensors
Limitations
Stroke length not on A3
Depends on vacuum quality
Light loads
Who Should Consider the Piab Vactivator Vacuum Cylinder?
The Vactivator suits high-speed picking of paper and sensitive products.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. Piab prices Vactivators 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 Vactivator Vacuum Cylinder FAQ
How is the Vactivator actuated?
By vacuum only.
Does it need a position sensor?
No, the stroke is self-adjusting.
Why is it gentle?
It retracts on contact without spring press force.
What is it commonly used for?
Picking paper sheets and sensitive surfaces.
Is it suitable for high speed?
Yes.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from Piab.
