SCHUNK MPG-plus Pneumatic Small-Parts Gripper Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK MPG-plus is a compact pneumatic two-finger parallel gripper for small workpieces. Its base jaws run on cross-roller guidance with double roller bearings for low friction and precise motion, and an oval piston maximizes gripping force within the small housing.
Options include gripping force maintenance (AS/IS), adapter plates, a precision version P, an FPS sensor version and a protective cover (HUE). Food-grade lubrication makes it relevant for medical technology, lab automation, pharmaceutical and food applications.
Quick Verdict
One of the reference grippers for small-part handling. The combination of roller guidance, high force density and wide option list makes it ideal for precise, fast assembly of small components.
SCHUNK MPG-plus Pneumatic Small-Parts Gripper at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Gripper type | Pneumatic 2-finger parallel gripper for small parts |
Guidance | Cross-roller guidance; base jaws on double roller bearings |
Drive | Oval piston for high gripping force |
Monitoring | Electronic magnetic switches; FPS sensor version |
Mounting | Two sides, four screw directions |
Air supply | Hose-free or screw connection |
Options | Grip force maintenance AS/IS, precision version P, adapter plates, protective cover HUE |
Lubrication | Food-grade lubricants (EN 1672-2:2020 not fully met) |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
Roller guidance reduces friction compared with sliding guides, so more of the piston force reaches the fingers and motion stays smooth even at high cycle rates. Double roller bearings under the base jaws add stiffness for precise positioning.
An oval piston fills the rectangular housing better than a round one, giving more piston area and therefore more gripping force for the same size. That matters in small-part handling where every millimetre of width counts.
Grip force maintenance options use a spring to keep the jaws closed (AS) or open (IS) if air pressure drops, protecting parts during an emergency stop. The FPS version measures jaw position for part checking.
Integration and Selection
Select the size from part mass, finger length and the required force, then decide on grip force maintenance for safety. The precision version P is worth considering for tight tolerance placement.
Use magnetic switches or the FPS sensor for confirmation, and the hose-free connection for compact tool designs.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Medical technology | Assembling small components of devices and disposables |
Laboratory automation | Gripping tubes, caps and small consumables |
Electronics | Placing connectors and small housings |
Pharmaceutical and food | Handling small items with food-grade lubrication |
Functional Uses
High-speed small-part assembly
Precise placement with roller guidance
Safe holding on air loss
Measuring part dimensions with FPS
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Low-friction roller guidance
High force density from oval piston
Many options including grip force maintenance
Food-grade lubrication
Limitations
Limited to small workpieces
Options increase cost and size
Not fully hygienic-design certified
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK MPG-plus Pneumatic Small-Parts Gripper?
The MPG-plus fits automation engineers handling small, precise parts in assembly, medical, lab and electronics applications.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the MPG-plus 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 MPG-plus Pneumatic Small-Parts Gripper FAQ
What is the SCHUNK MPG-plus?
A compact pneumatic two-finger parallel gripper for small parts with cross-roller guidance.
Why does it use an oval piston?
The oval piston provides a larger piston area in a compact housing, increasing gripping force.
Does it offer grip force maintenance?
Yes. AS and IS versions maintain the grip if air pressure is lost.
Which industries use it?
Medical technology, lab automation, pharmaceutical, food and electronics.
Can jaw position be measured?
Yes. The FPS sensor version measures the jaw position.
How much does the MPG-plus cost?
Request a quote from SCHUNK for the size and options.
