SCHUNK RCG Round Cell Battery Gripper Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SCHUNK RCG is a standard gripper designed specifically for picking and placing round battery cells, either individually or as arrays. Each cell is held by a permanent magnet that a pneumatic piston moves into and out of the holding position.
The compact design allows high packing density, matching the tight cell spacing in battery modules. Sensors detect the workpiece and gripper status, the gripping force is maintained during energy loss, and an insulating layer protects the cells from damage and short circuits.
Quick Verdict
A purpose-built standard gripper for cylindrical cell handling in e-mobility. Using a ready product instead of a custom tool shortens project timelines for battery module assembly lines.
SCHUNK RCG Round Cell Battery Gripper at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Gripper type | Magnetic gripper for round battery cells |
Holding principle | Permanent magnet moved by a pneumatic piston |
Handling | Single cells or cell arrays |
Packing density | Compact design for high packing density |
Monitoring | Sensor-based workpiece and status detection |
Energy loss | Gripping force maintained |
Cell protection | Insulating layer |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
Cylindrical cells such as 18650, 21700 and 4680 formats have steel cans, which makes magnetic gripping effective. A permanent magnet provides the holding force, so no continuous energy is needed and the grip remains if power or air is lost, an important safety point when moving many cells over an assembly.
A pneumatic piston moves the magnet toward or away from the cell face to grip and release. This switching approach keeps the gripper simple and the release clean, without residual magnetic pull holding the cell.
The insulating layer between gripper and cell avoids scratching the cell's insulation and reduces short-circuit risk, while sensors confirm that each cell has been picked.
Integration and Selection
Match the gripper pattern to the cell pitch and module layout, and verify holding force with the actual cell format including accelerations. Combine with SCHUNK linear actuators and compensation units for placing cells into holders with tolerances.
Integrate the status sensors into the line control so that missing or dropped cells are detected immediately.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
E-mobility | Building battery modules from cylindrical cells |
Energy storage | Assembling stationary battery packs |
Power tools | Handling cells for battery pack assembly |
Battery recycling | Disassembly and sorting of cylindrical cells |
Functional Uses
Picking single cells and cell arrays
Placing cells into module holders
Detecting cell presence
Holding cells safely on energy loss
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Purpose-built for round cells
High packing density
Grip maintained on energy loss
Insulating layer protects cells
Limitations
Only for magnetic (steel can) cells
Layout depends on cell pitch
Needs pneumatic supply for switching
Who Should Consider the SCHUNK RCG Round Cell Battery Gripper?
The RCG suits battery module and pack assembly lines handling cylindrical cells at high density.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SCHUNK prices the RCG 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 RCG Round Cell Battery Gripper FAQ
What does the SCHUNK RCG handle?
Individual round battery cells and cell arrays.
How does it hold the cells?
With a permanent magnet moved by a pneumatic piston.
What happens on energy loss?
The gripping force is maintained.
Is there protection for the cells?
Yes, an insulating layer protects the cells.
Where is it used?
In e-mobility battery handling from cell rows to completed clusters.
How much does the RCG cost?
Request a quote from SCHUNK.
