SCHUNK PLG Configurable Long-Stroke Pneumatic Gripper Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK PLG is a pneumatic, high-payload, long-stroke two-finger parallel gripper that is configured to the application. Instead of choosing from a fixed catalog of strokes, users define the gripper in SCHUNK's browser-based configuration tool and receive a matching standard product with CAD data.
Pressure acts on opposing pistons that move the base jaws, a carrier on each piston guides the jaw, and a rack-and-pinion mechanism keeps both jaws synchronized. Profiled rail guides carry high moments, so long fingers can be used on large and heavy workpieces.
Quick Verdict
A strong option when a part family spans a wide range of sizes and a standard gripper's stroke is too short. The configurator delivers an application-specific gripper without the cost and lead time of a fully custom design.
SCHUNK PLG Configurable Long-Stroke Pneumatic Gripper at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Gripper type | Pneumatic 2-finger parallel gripper |
Stroke | Long stroke, configured to the application |
Drive | Opposing pistons; rack-and-pinion jaw synchronization |
Guidance | Profiled rail guide for high maximum moments |
Payload | High gripping force for large, heavy workpieces |
Configuration | Browser-based tool, no license or CAD software required |
Lubrication | Food-compliant lubricants as standard on gripper parts |
Price | Request a quote; competitive pricing and short lead times stated by SCHUNK |
Design and Operating Principle
Long-stroke grippers solve a common problem in palletizing, machine loading and handling of bulky parts: one gripper has to handle parts of very different widths. The PLG achieves this with long base jaws guided on profiled rails, which provide stiffness against the moments generated by long fingers and heavy loads.
Synchronization through rack and pinion keeps the jaws centred, so the workpiece is gripped on the gripper axis regardless of stroke. That consistency simplifies robot programming because the part's centre stays in the same tool coordinate.
The configurator is the commercial differentiator. Engineers select stroke, force and options online, download CAD data and order a standard product. Note that bearings, linear guides and shock absorbers do not carry food-grade lubrication, which matters for hygienic applications.
Integration and Selection
Start from the part family: smallest and largest width, mass, centre of gravity and the accelerations of the robot path. Configure the stroke to cover the range with margin, then check gripping force at the planned finger length and the moments on the guides.
A long-stroke pneumatic gripper consumes more air per cycle. Size valves and tubing accordingly and add jaw-position sensing so the robot can distinguish part sizes or detect a missed grip.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Logistics and palletizing | Gripping boxes and crates of different widths |
Metalworking | Loading large blanks and castings into machines |
Automotive | Handling body parts, brackets and assemblies |
Building products | Moving panels, profiles and heavy components |
Functional Uses
Handling a wide range of part widths with one gripper
Centred gripping via synchronized jaws
Carrying long fingers for bulky parts
Detecting part size through jaw position
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Configurable long stroke
Profiled rail guides for high moments
Synchronized centring jaws
Online configurator with CAD download
Limitations
Higher air consumption than short-stroke grippers
Larger and heavier than compact grippers
Not fully compliant with hygienic design standards
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK PLG Configurable Long-Stroke Pneumatic Gripper?
The PLG fits integrators and plant engineers who need one gripper for a wide size range of large or heavy parts, without commissioning a fully custom design.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the PLG 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 PLG Configurable Long-Stroke Pneumatic Gripper FAQ
What is the SCHUNK PLG?
A configurable, pneumatic, high-payload long-stroke two-finger parallel gripper for large and heavy workpieces.
How is the PLG configured?
Through SCHUNK's browser-based configuration tool, which requires no license or separate CAD program and provides CAD data.
How are the jaws synchronized?
A rack-and-pinion mechanism synchronizes the jaws, so the part is gripped centred on the gripper axis.
Can the PLG carry long fingers?
Yes. The profiled rail guide supports high maximum moments, allowing long gripper fingers.
Is the PLG food-grade?
It uses food-compliant lubricants as standard but does not fully meet EN 1672-2:2020, and some components do not have food-grade lubrication.
How much does the PLG cost?
Pricing depends on the configuration. SCHUNK states competitive pricing and short delivery times; request a quote for the exact build.
