SCHUNK EGM Electro-Permanent Magnetic Gripper Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK EGM is an electro-permanent magnetic gripper for handling ferromagnetic workpieces with a robot or gantry. It combines AlNiCo and neodymium magnets: a short electric pulse through the coil reverses the polarity of the AlNiCo magnets, switching the holding force on or off.
Power is only needed for magnetizing and demagnetizing, and the holding force remains in place during an emergency stop. Because the gripper only touches one face of the part, the workpiece stays accessible from five sides, which is ideal for machine loading.
Quick Verdict
An excellent choice for steel blanks, plates and machined parts in compact machines. Energy efficiency and fail-safe holding make it a strong alternative to vacuum or mechanical grippers for ferrous parts.
SCHUNK EGM Electro-Permanent Magnetic Gripper at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Gripper type | Electro-permanent magnetic gripper |
Magnets | AlNiCo and neodymium combination |
Switching | Short current pulse reverses AlNiCo polarity |
Energy use | Only during magnetizing and demagnetizing |
E-stop behavior | Holding force maintained |
Access | Workpiece accessible from five sides |
Poles | Variable number of magnetic poles |
Control | External control via digital I/O; controller available on request |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
Electro-permanent magnets combine the holding strength of permanent magnets with the switchability of electromagnets. The neodymium magnets provide a constant field, while the AlNiCo magnets can be re-polarized by a brief current pulse. When the fields add, flux passes through the workpiece and holds it; when they oppose, flux stays inside the gripper and the part is released.
Since no current is needed to keep the part, there is no heat build-up and no risk of dropping the part on power loss. This is the main safety advantage over conventional electromagnets.
Holding force depends heavily on the workpiece: material, thickness, surface flatness and air gaps all affect the result. Thin sheets may not absorb the full flux, and coatings or rough surfaces reduce force.
Integration and Selection
Validate holding force on the real parts, including thinnest sheet, surface condition and any oil or coating. Consider shear forces during fast robot moves, since magnetic grippers are strongest perpendicular to the contact face.
Plan the digital I/O signals for magnetize and demagnetize, and add a part-present check. Residual magnetism in the part may need to be considered for downstream processes.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Metalworking | Loading steel blanks into machining centers |
Sheet metal | Handling plates at presses and laser cutters |
Automotive suppliers | Transferring forged and machined steel parts |
Tool and die | Moving heavy steel components in compact cells |
Functional Uses
Holding ferrous parts without fingers
Five-side access for machining or assembly
Fail-safe holding during E-stop
Energy-efficient pick-and-place
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Holding force maintained on power loss
Energy used only for switching
High force in a small, light package
Workpiece accessible from five sides
Limitations
Only for ferromagnetic parts
Force depends on thickness and surface
Possible residual magnetism in parts
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK EGM Electro-Permanent Magnetic Gripper?
The EGM suits machine builders and integrators handling steel parts in compact machines, where energy efficiency and safe holding through stops are essential.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the EGM by size, options and quantity, so the final figure depends on the exact configuration. Budget for the complete tooling package, including fingers or adapters, mounting, air or electrical connections and commissioning time, rather than the module alone.
Further Reading
SCHUNK EGM Electro-Permanent Magnetic Gripper FAQ
How does the SCHUNK EGM work?
It combines AlNiCo and neodymium magnets; a short current pulse reverses the AlNiCo polarity to switch the holding force on or off.
Does the EGM need constant power?
No. Power is used only for magnetizing and demagnetizing.
What happens during an emergency stop?
The holding force is maintained, so the part is not dropped.
Which materials can it handle?
Ferromagnetic workpieces such as steel and iron.
How is the EGM controlled?
Externally via digital I/O; a controller is available on request.
How much does the EGM cost?
Request a quote from SCHUNK for the required size and pole configuration.
