Festo now distributing Magswitch magnetic grippers and clamping solutions

Festo has signed a distribution agreement with Magswitch, which provides switchable magnetic gripping and clamping solutions to automotive and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Magswitch offers single-sided gripping systems featuring true on-and-off magnetic technology for complete automation systems in OEM assembled lines in such applications as robotic welding, pick-and-place and body-in-white. Magswitch components integrate seamlessly into the Festo electric and pneumatic automated motion architecture.

“The technology is a natural complement to the Festo range of products and global customer base,” says Ian Cleaver, Festo industry segment director.

Festo/Magswitch solutions can be applied effectively to press lines and stamping operations where switchable magnets can handle lubricated sheet metal blanks more effectively than suction cups by gripping through lubrication.

In assembly and body-in-white applications, Magswitch switchable magnets offer the versatility and simplicity of suction cups while maintaining the reliability and safety of traditional power clamps. With single-sided clamping, Magswitch tools can facilitate higher speed and quality while welding, and when integrated with vision systems the tools streamline bin picking and handling randomly arranged components.

In machine tending and pick-and-place applications, operations can be performed significantly faster with switchable magnetic end-of-arm tools compared to mechanical grippers, power clamps, and suction cups.

Magswitch offers custom-pole-shoe accessories with superior holding force that can securely grip components with various geometries. Applications in I-beam handling, fixture tooling and ergonomic lift assistance can deliver efficiency gains while reducing downtime and capital costs.

Festo and Magswitch are also working on research and development for new products.