What Does Your Vacuum Gripper Really Cost?
For an existing system, it is possible to calculate the compressed air consumption of a vacuum gripper. However, it is more reliable to measure it.
With our compressed air measurement service, we record the actual consumption of an existing vacuum gripping application directly at the system. Based on the measured values, the actual cycle rate, and the operating times, we determine the annual compressed air costs, thereby creating a solid basis for answering the question:
Is it worth switching to non-pneumatic vacuum gripping?
Measure Instead of Estimate
When designing a gripping application, compressed air consumption is often assessed based solely on manufacturer specifications, theoretical consumption values, or flat-rate cost estimates.
In actual production, the figures may differ.
That is why we take measurements directly at the existing application. In doing so, we consider not just a single consumption value, but the actual process:
- Compressed air consumption for vacuum generation
- Cycle rate and number of gripping cycles
- Number of gripping points
- Operating hours and shift schedule
- Existing leaks and other relevant consumers
- The operator’s current compressed air costs
Using this data, we calculate consumption and operating costs over the course of a year.
What You’ll Learn
You’ll receive a documented analysis of the measurement, including key measurement data and assumptions.
Building on this, we compare the existing pneumatic solution with a potential non-pneumatic gripping solution.
This allows us to estimate:
- What are the current operating costs?
- What is the potential for savings?
- What investment would be required for a retrofit?
- What is the resulting payback period?
Upon request, we can also include the CO₂ emissions associated with compressed air generation in the analysis.
What if the retrofit isn’t worth it?
Then that, too, is a valid conclusion.
Not every pneumatic gripping application needs to be replaced. The key factor is whether technical feasibility and economic viability align.
Our compressed air measurement is therefore not intended to prove savings that are already a foregone conclusion. It is designed to provide a reliable basis for decision-making.
If the savings potential is low or the payback period is too long for your requirements, we will report that as well.
Typical Process
1. Assess the application
We clarify the gripping task, the number of suction cups, cycle time, operating hours, and the existing vacuum generation system.
2. Measure compressed air consumption
The measurement is performed on the actual system under normal production conditions.
3. Estimate consumption
Using measured values and operating data, we determine the annual compressed air consumption and the resulting costs.
4. Evaluate alternatives
If the application is fundamentally suitable for vacuum gripping without pneumatics, we compare the energy consumption and costs of a potential electric solution.
5. Document the results
You will receive the measured values, calculation basis, and a transparent economic evaluation.
For which applications is this measurement relevant?
Especially for automated gripping processes involving:
- high cycle rates
- multiple vacuum gripping points
- long machine operating times
- recurring gripping cycles
- high internal compressed air costs
- planned modernizations or new installations
It is precisely in these situations that seemingly insignificant individual consumption over millions of gripping cycles can result in significant operating costs.
Effort and Costs
The measurement is conducted as a compact preliminary assessment. The specific effort required depends on the system, the number of measurement points, and the location.
You will receive a fixed-price quote in advance, including the necessary evaluation. Travel expenses are listed separately.
If a joint retrofit or pilot project is subsequently agreed upon, the cost of the compressed air measurement can be credited toward the follow-up project.
Measure first. Then decide.
Would you like to know what your existing vacuum gripping system actually costs?
Talk to us about your application.