SMC MHZ2 Parallel Air Gripper Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The SMC MHZ2 is one of the most widely used pneumatic parallel grippers. It integrates a linear guide located by two dowel pins for rigidity and is available in bore sizes of 6, 10, 16, 20, 25, 32 and 40 mm with ±0.01 mm repeatability.
Versions include double-acting and single-acting normally open or normally closed. Standard, narrow and flat finger options are offered, the gripper mounts on three sides in five configurations, it accepts auto switches and can be ordered with NSF-H1 food-grade lubricant.
Quick Verdict
A versatile, precise and widely available parallel gripper that fits a huge range of small- to medium-part handling tasks.
SMC MHZ2 Parallel Air Gripper at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Gripper type | Pneumatic 2-finger parallel gripper |
Bore sizes | 6, 10, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40 mm |
Repeatability | ±0.01 mm |
Guidance | Integrated linear guide, located by two dowel pins |
Actuation | Double acting; single acting normally open or normally closed |
Fingers | Standard, narrow and flat options |
Mounting | Three sides, five configurations |
Options | Auto switches; NSF-H1 food-grade lubricant |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
An integrated linear guide supports the jaws against side loads and moments, giving the ±0.01 mm repeatability that makes the MHZ2 suitable for precise placement. Dowel pins locate the guide accurately to the body so precision is kept across the production series.
Single-acting normally closed versions keep holding the part with spring force if air is lost, normally open versions release, and double-acting versions provide full air force in both directions. This choice is part of the machine's safety concept.
The wide bore range means the same family covers tiny electronic parts up to medium components, simplifying spare parts and engineering standards across a plant.
Integration and Selection
Select the bore from gripping force needed at the finger length, check the allowable overhang and moments, and pick single or double acting according to the safety concept.
Fit auto switches for position confirmation and choose a mounting configuration that suits the tool layout.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Electronics | Placing small components and connectors |
Automotive | Small-part assembly |
Medical devices | Precision handling of components |
Food packaging | Handling with NSF-H1 lubricant option |
Functional Uses
Precise pick-and-place
Fail-safe holding with normally closed version
Multi-gripper heads
Part presence sensing
Pros and Cons
Advantages
±0.01 mm repeatability
Wide bore range
Single and double acting
Flexible mounting and fingers
Limitations
Stroke limited for large parts
Pneumatic supply required
Small bores have low force
Who Should Consider the SMC MHZ2 Parallel Air Gripper?
The MHZ2 suits machine builders needing a precise, standard pneumatic parallel gripper across many part sizes.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. SMC prices the MHZ2 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
SMC MHZ2 Parallel Air Gripper FAQ
What bore sizes are available?
6, 10, 16, 20, 25, 32 and 40 mm.
What is the repeatability?
±0.01 mm.
Is a spring-return version available?
Yes, single acting normally open or normally closed.
How can it be mounted?
On three sides in five configurations.
Is food-grade lubrication available?
Yes, NSF-H1 lubricant is an option.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from SMC.
