>SAS< Automation introduces New Heated Gate Cutter

>SAS< Automation recently introduced a new Heated Gate Cutter for plastics degating.

Gate cutting is often a final plastics operation. Removing runners without leaving marks can be difficult. This new Heated Gate Cutter from >SAS< makes especially difficult to cut runners, much easier.

This new cutter is ideal for cutting acrylic and other brittle plastic materials and the ideal solution for preventing stress marks left from the cutting process.

Each Heated Cutter set includes a heated blade, nipper and heat controller. The ambient temperature blade provides an ultimate finish. Standard blades are cost effectively replaced.

According to Robert Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation, ">SAS< is a full service provider of cutting tools and is pleased to announce this advanced innovation for cutting hard parts."

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>SAS< Automation announces Internal Diameter Gripper

>SAS< Automation announces a new Internal Diameter Gripper (IDG) ideal for parts that are heavy, fragile, or have an irregular shape.

The IDG grips and releases on command and is highly recommended for manipulating breakable parts as well as heavy parts. Unlike standard clamps, the IDG distributes force evenly over the entire contact area which is why they are most often used for irregular shaped parts.

This new IDG is a cost effective solution when compared to bladder grippers and automated or magnetic clamps.

Significant Features:

• Secures heavy parts
• Rubber strips ensure a secure grip - and can be replaced at very low cost.
• Nose adapter can easily be customized for locating or part stabilization.

"This new gripper is simply a better clamping method - at a reduced cost," said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation. "We are proud to have delivered a cost effective and better handling solution during this recession."

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>SAS< Automation announces EOAT Workbench

>SAS< Automation announces a new EOAT Workbench for building grippers.

These ergonomic assembly tables come complete with storage area for EOAT components and tools.  Each station includes a swivel chucking system to secure the EOAT by the mounting plate and allows access to all sides of the tool for easy tool building.

Any tool builder will appreciate having components in one place along with an ideal stand to build the tool.  Profiles are neatly stored in a separate storage rack. This table takes up minimal floor space and is the ideal place for tool re-work as well.

 "This new EOAT Workbench is another industry first from >SAS< and is a great complement to our EOAT Storage Rack," said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.  "Do-it-yourself tooling has come a long way - adding this workbench will help our customers build better tools," he added.

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>SAS< Automation announces EOAT Online Forum

>SAS< Automation announces a New Online Forum - for Tool Builders!

Monitored by "Tim the EOAT Toolman" this online forum will easily allow anyone to ask a tooling question - and get an answer promptly!

Tool builders can also view all of the questions and answers - to see if their question has already been asked. This new online EOAT Forum will be demonstrated at the >SAS< booth South-10041 at NPE!

"As tools become increasingly more complex, finding a convenient way for tool builders to get their questions answered quickly, has become a priority," said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation. "Tool builders of course can always call our toll free line to ask tooling questions. Adding an online forum just seems to make sense given that many people on the shop floor are handling multiple robots and tool changes. We are proud to offer many ways for builders to get "How to build EOAT" information," he added.

The EOAT Forum can be viewed from our EOAT Building Portal Web: www.eoat.com/forum. It also can be found from our main Web: www.sasgripper.com

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>SAS< Automation introduces new Bag Gripper

A specialized EOAT is often used to palletize woven plastic or paper bags containing many products including grain, chemicals, dog food, minerals and plastic resins. Because a vacuum tool may not secure these bags well due to air leakage, stainless steel fingers are used for both strength and their ability to withstand harsh manufacturing environments. The bags are presented to the robot on a roller conveyor allowing the custom spaced fingers to lift upwards between the rollers and secure the bag against the optional top compressor plate. When in position, the fingers open and the bag is positioned on the pallet. Most palletizing cells will require in-feed conveyors, a pallet feed system, safety guarding and a robot properly sized for reach and payload.

• Aluminum frame construction to reduce overall weight and add life to your robot
• Stainless steel fingers for strength and harsh environments
• Customized finger pitch to match your roller conveyor
• Over-center linkage design keeps the fingers shut in case of pneumatic or electric loss (bag will not be dropped)
• Stabilizer guides to control the bag motion as it drops
• Optional pallet hooks
• Optional slip sheet vacuum cup

Click here to more information.

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NPE 2009 Announcement

John Westbeld, Engineering Manager for >SAS< Automation has been selected to speak at NPE 2009, at the SPI Plastics Education Conference. He will be speaking on this topic:

Trends in Plastics Parts Handling with Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling.

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>SAS< Automation Announces Lifetime Guarantee for GRF-20 Spring Return - Gripper Fingers

>SAS< Automation is pleased to announce a new Lifetime Guarantee on all of its GRF-20 Spring Return Single Acting Gripper Fingers purchased after January 1, 2009.

>SAS< Automation designs and manufactures in the USA, robotic End-of-Arm Tooling components using the highest quality materials. For the past twelve years, they have proudly pioneered many “industry-firsts” including: on-site service, e-commerce shopping, and of course tools that uniquely are compatible with all robots and any part. In addition to those milestones, they have found their GRF’s …to last a million cycles!

Engineering components with innovative designs to last longer and reduce your overall production costs is the cornerstone of >SAS<. Details of this guarantee are as follows:

1. Warranty is only for the SAS GRF-20 Spring Return Single Acting gripper fingers on purchases after January 1, 2009 (must show proof of purchase).
2. Must be used by the original purchaser; warranty cannot be transferred.
3. Must be returned to SAS for verification and inspection (postage paid).
4. >SAS< will replace at equal value; no cash refunds.
5. Products must be used in the manner intended and not abused.
6. >SAS<, at its sole discretion, may choose to remove this warranty on future products sold.
7. Customer must not modify the product in any manner.
8. >SAS< will send replacement part for valid claims. This will generally occur within two weeks, but is based upon >SAS< inventory and production scheduling.
9. Warranty is limited to 1,000,000 cycles.

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>SAS< Automation provides assistance to the University of Dayton's Robotics Lab

>SAS< Automation is providing assistance over a five-year period to the Robotics Laboratory at the University of Dayton School of Engineering. >SAS< has agreed to donate, nearly a quarter-million dollars in Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling, other robot components, and training.

The University officially will recognize >SAS< during a dedication event at 3 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2008, at the University of Dayton.

“We are pleased to support the University of Dayton in their educational efforts,” said >SAS< Automation President Trent Fisher. “Not only are our modular gripper systems a superior tool for robots, but they are also a great educational tool. We look forward to helping UD prepare their students for the work force, and successful careers.”

Read more: click here

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>SAS< Automation Announces Solution Provider for Motoman

>SAS< Automation has signed a Solution Partner agreement with Motoman Inc. This agreement declares >SAS< Automation as a third-party integrator of robotic end-of-arm tooling for plastics, packaging and general material handling applications. This agreement helps >SAS< to provide greater automation services including complete systems integration to its customers in a wide range of industrial applications.

Motoman is an international robotics leader – making them an ideal choice for serving >SAS’s global customer base. >SAS< provides the widest range of end-of-arm tooling solutions including modular tooling systems, custom tools and complete workcell integration. >SAS< is recognized for their expertise as a manufacturer of tooling and integrator of innovative solutions for plastics injection molding, insert molding, packaging and palletizing (especially with difficult to manipulate products) and general material handling.

"We selected Motoman as a robot partner due to their global presence and extensive expertise in plastics and our other emerging markets," said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.

Click here to more information.

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>SAS< Automation Announces System Partner Agreement with KUKA Robotics

>SAS< Automation has signed a system partner agreement with KUKA Robotics. This agreement declares >SAS< Automation as a third-party integrator of robotic end-of-arm tooling for plastics, packaging and general material handling applications.

This agreement helps >SAS< to provide greater automation services to its customers in a wide range of industrial applications.

KUKA Robotics is a leading global supplier of industrial robots ? making them an ideal choice for >SAS<. >SAS< provides the widest range of end-of-arm tooling solutions including modular tooling systems, custom tools and complete workcell integration. >SAS< is recognized for their expertise as a manufacturer of tooling and integrator of innovative solutions for plastics injection molding, insert molding, packaging and palletizing (especially with difficult to manipulate products) and general material handling.

"We selected KUKA as our robot partner because of their broad range of robots and common controls approach," said Rob Dalton, General Manager for >SAS< Automation.
 

Click here to more information.

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>SAS< Automation Introduces Hold Down Toggle Clamps

>SAS< Automation introduces a heavy-duty pneumatic toggle clamp called the HDC. This toggle clamp is specifically designed for harsh manufacturing environments demanding superior clamping power. The >SAS< HDC clamp has an over-center locking design that requires return air pressure to open -- making it ideal for holding and managing heavy and bulky parts. Processors will appreciate the consistent gripping forces when performing secondary operations including degating, fabricating, and machining. This clamp is excellent for repetitive production operations as well as short runs using temporary fixturing.

Sizes ? HDC 25-105 and HDC 40-105

Significant Features:

These clamps have a large cylinder area for increased clamping force of 675 in. lb. (opens to max 105°) and consistent operation with fixed speed control in air ports and easily interchangeable cylinders.

• Manual Release Button – opens clamp without air pressure
• Holding Torque (1584 in. lb.) – piston diameter 40mm
• Lightweight (3 lbs. 6 oz.) – low profile/narrow design for tight applications
• Closed linkage – protects from contaminants thereby reducing maintenance costs and downtime

Click here for more information and purchase.

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>SAS< Automation Introduces HX Line of Profiles

>SAS< Automation introduces new Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling line of profiles called: HX line. These profiles are a hybrid between our circular tubing profiles and our rectangular profiles. This new HX line is specifically designed for increased flexibility in heavy-duty material handling.

Sizes:

HX-40 - Outside Diameter – 40mm
HX-60 - Outside Diameter – 60mm

Ideal for:

• Boom style Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling
• Heavy and bulky part applications
• Press tending, metal stamping and other heavy material handling
• Clamping on the diameter or mounting to the channel

The new HX line is interchangeable with all of >SAS<’s modular EOAT line of components. The circular channel allows for direct mounting of pneumatic fittings for greater flexibility in pneumatic “plumbing” or “routing” to stream line the routing of hoses to grippers or vacuum cups allowing almost limitless applications.

Click here to more information.

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NEW
Introducing RFID Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling

>SAS< Automation introduces new Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT) with RFID tags to automatically ensure the correct tooling is operating with the corresponding operation and equipment.

RFID is an automatic identification method, relying on storing and remotely retrieving data using RFID tags. >SAS< has applied an RFID tag in a Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT) mounting plate to identify itself when mounted and installed on a standard Quick Change Mounting Chuck, mounted to the robot.

Important features of this system are to identify the correct robotic EOAT gripper is mounted to the robot running the applicable program and confirm the rest of the critical equipment is installed ? including the correct die or mold in stamping, plastics or packaging operations.

RFID is low cost insurance against robot, tooling and part damage because it quickly ensures the correct tooling is running. RFID tags prevent costly damage due to system crashes, reduces labor costs, and are critical during line change-overs.

New >SAS< EOAT RFID has built-in I/O capability up to 8 channels of RFID and can be integrated into existing platforms, and supports PROFIBUS ®-DP, DeviceNet ™, Modbus-TCP, PROFINET and EtherNet/IP™. Furthermore the data carriers use state-of-the-art FRAM storage technology for virtually an unlimited number of write operations and had high temperature data carriers rated up to 210°C.

Click here to more information.

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NEW
Vacuum Handling System

>SAS< Automation introduces a new modular Vacuum Handling System line of
Robotic End-of-Arm Tooling (EOAT).

This new vacuum handling system is the most reliable and easy way to handle bulky and heavy parts to ensure no part damage. Each gripper has one valve that is auto-regulated to open and close. Gripping power uniquely remains constant offering exceptional handling with improved lifting.

Like many of the modular systems from >SAS< – this line is easy to configure to your specific part. It easily handles parts that are often difficult for standard grippers including porous, soft, twisted, round, flexible and other non-standard shapes, weights, and materials.

Power Consumption:

1. Electric Turbine - power consumption of the turbine is approximately 30% of normal in release position
2. Compressed air - Venturi power consumption only in pick-up mode

Significant advantages:

• Adjustable systems available
• Ability to handle a wide variety of shapes
• Durable to handle weights to 614 lbs/ft² (3000 Kg/m²)
• Independent and auto-regulated valve system
• Lightweight and compact
• Easy to install
• Multiple heads configured in series only require one turbine
• Many options available – to handle any part

Click here to more information.

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NEW
Introducing the Thrust Cutter Degater

>SAS< Automation introduces a new degater called the >SAS< Thrust Cutter.

This thrust cutter is designed with a razor sharp blade positioned at a 45 degree angle to precisely shear a sprue gate in hard to reach narrow places.

The equipment was designed to hold the blade on a special cylinder to precisely actuate the gate cutting process.

The cylinder can be mounted in many angles. This style of gate cutting uniquely allows access to very hard to reach areas using actuated thrust motion from the cylinder.

Click here to more information.

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NEW
>SAS< Automation, introduces Collision Sensors

>SAS< Automation introduces four new Collision Sensors to prevent damage to parts, tooling and robots.

>SAS< Collision Sensors come in 4 different configurations to best meet different tooling and manufacturing environments. Collision Sensors send a signal to stop the robot when it detects an obstacle - to prevent costly damage to end effectors/end-of-arm tooling, parts and machinery.

“Sensors are low cost insurance against robot, EOAT and part damage”, said Trent Fisher, President of  SAS Automation. “>SAS< EOAT junction boxes make adding and changing Collision Sensors easily on the production floor. Any robot operator will appreciate both the safety and cost saving benefits associated with collision sensors,” he added.

>SAS< Collision Sensors:

• Pneumatic High-Angle Collision Sensor – excellent for high speed robots.
• Pneumatic Collision Sensor – easily adjust resistance (for stopping the robot) with this sensor.
• Pneumatic Stainless Steel Collision Sensor – durable stainless steel construction makes this sensor ideal for demanding production environments.
• Spring-Loaded Collision Sensor – provides crash protection when compressed air is not available

Click here to more information.

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>SAS< Automation introduces new Static Cutter

SAS introduces a Static Cutter for precision cutting that can be easily mounted several ways: to an articulating robot, statically mounted, or mounted directly to your End-of-Arm Tool (EOAT). This economical and lightweight cutting tool will provide accurate, low cost cutting for a multitude of fan gate cutting applications. The SAS Static Cutter includes a standard box cutter knife, protected by a safety guard, attached to an adjustable SAS elbow arm. The knife blade can easily be replaced by a simple turn of a locking handle.

According to John Westbeld, Engineering Manager for SAS Automation, “Processors will find this cutter to be both convenient and easy to use. They will appreciate the ability to move it around their workcell as their cutting applications change.”

This cutter arm assembly is both lightweight and low cost for maximum efficiency in your cutting applications.

For more information, click here.

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"Twist-On" Cable Saddle Frame Connectors & 
Wire ties for EOATs

>SAS< Automation announces a unique “Twist-On” Cable Saddle frame connector and wire tie system for better EOAT cable management. This system allows End-of-Arm Tool builders to easily attach air hoses and or power cables to the tool.

The unique “Twist-On” design of the Cable Saddle allows the hoses or cables to be removed and moved to other locations on the tool as needed during the build process. Twisting the cable saddle to lock into the profile provides a solid connection to the profile and the ability to move the cables or hoses without wasting the wire ties by having to cut them off. The Cable Saddles are available in 15mm and 25mm sizes to accommodate various sizes of End-Of-Arm Tooling hoses and cables. An opening built into the base of the Cable Saddle allows for the wire ties to loop through, allowing for the Cable Saddle to be permanently attached to the cables or hoses.

End-Of-Arm Tooling designers are challenged to develop tools that perform more functions. Providing ways to build tools easier and faster is a specialty of SAS Automation.

For more information, click here.

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SAS – introduces Gripper Plier Jaw Kit

SAS Automation announces individual jaw kits for the new style of GRZ 20-16. The jaw kit consists of one jaw and one hex screw pin.

This new jaw kit for the GRZ 20-16 offers injection molders the ability to interchange existing jaws for various size jaws. The challenge to customize the application of a parts/sprue plier led to the development of the GRZ 20-16 with removable screws. This new jaw kit will provide molders with the ability to easily interchange and configure the jaw size by ordering kits of the same size to customize their gripping requirements.

Customizing gripping options offers processors greater flexibility in both designing and configuring tools, right on the production floor. SAS continues to provide solutions that enable the production floor to handle unique tooling requirements.

For more information, click here.

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Internal Spring Loaded Gripper Arm for Vacuum Cups

SAS Automation provides more EOAT gripping options, with the introduction of a new lightweight gripper arm. This gripper arm is uniquely designed with Delrin & aluminum to keep the tool lightweight, electrically insulated and wear resistant. The part is ideal for tools requiring an electrostatic charge or using IML (In Mold Labeling).

This SAS gripper arm is internally spring-loaded for part compliance. The internal spring prevents contamination from the process or production environment. A threaded shaft with jam nuts allows for easy plate mounting of the gripper arm. The gripper is also end ported for vacuum and keeps fittings away from other components such as vacuum cups.

According to John Westbeld, Engineering Manager for SAS Automation “Adding this lightweight, yet durable gripper arm is one more way that SAS is helping processors to reduce robot wear and tear.”

Click here to more information.

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>SAS< introduces New EOAT Rack

SAS Automation announces a unique and innovative storage rack for End-of-Arm Tooling. The rack design was driven by mold injectors continued requests for a device to easily store, and inventory EOAT’s. Having the racks in close proximity to the injection molding machine presses provides for quick tool changes.

The rack measures two meters high by two meters long with four heavy duty casters for mobility, but can be designed in smaller or larger versions to accommodate individual needs. GHV wall mounts in three sizes (SAS 0-3 sizes) attach easily to the J-40/40 profile. The rack is capable of storing numerous tools depending on their size. This rack is “low cost insurance against EOAT damage”, said John Prater, Technical Sales Coordinator for SAS Automation. “This is simply a more secure and safe way to store End-of-Arm Tooling as this rack provides both stability and mobility”, he added..

Click here for more information.

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>SAS< Automation introduces Tubing Cutter

In their continuing efforts to make assembling EOAT components easier, SAS offers a new compact tubing cutter for vacuum and compressed air polyurethane tubing. This tubing cutter can be used for 4mm to 8mm tubing with ease using the six cutting edges for a clean cut. The SAS tubing cutter can effectively be used with a one hand operation.

To enhance the cutting of pneumatic tubing even more effectively, the tool comes with a self contained 1 meter tape measure. The tool can also be locked for safe protection from the blades. This tool is economically priced and will pay for itself after your first project.

Click here for more information.

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>SAS< Automation introduces its latest Packaging End-of-Arm Tooling ? for bag handling. 

This custom robotic bag gripper tool, designed by the engineering department at SAS, needed to lift heavy bags off of a roller conveyor – therefore the tool needed to be carefully designed to avoid interference with the rollers. The tool is made of heavy duty stainless steel fingers capable of handling bag weights of 25 lbs to 60 lbs.

The tool uniquely requires one pivot point with one cylinder to rotate the fingers to grab the bags, reaching in between the rollers to secure the bag underneath providing optimal support. This >SAS< specially design tool solves the difficulty in securing bags that significantly deform due to heavy contents, such as salt, food products, or even dry concrete mixtures.

According to Richard Petz, General Manager for SAS Automation, “This new durable bag gripper incorporated a design without typical stress points on both the tool and the bag. Fewer stress points mean fewer future failure points making this a tool designed for a long production life and longer bag life to assure proper delivery of contained product to customers. This results in a reliable material handling system that assures end user satisfaction.”