The Squid 
- Partial Box Test
- Pallet Handling
- Plastic Bale Handling
- Ice Bag Handling
- Manual Press Loader
- Pulp Packaging Handling
An Explanation of ConstructionThe Squid has been developed to offer the vacuum user a universal end of arm vacuum tool. The Squid utilizes different end effectors such as vacuum cups, foam, orifice fittings and self closing valves. The choice of Squid is dependent on the application and user preference. Please contact Vacuforce to discuss the application.The following components are required to build a complete Squid System.A Two Part AssemblyEvery Squid requires a Base Box. This is the top of the Squid system which mounts to the robot or lifting device. The cup plate will connect to the underside of the Squid. There are two types of cup plates; one is an orifice fitting option and the other for use with self closing valves. These are explained as follows;Orifice FittingsOrifice fittings are used inside the cup plate when using vacuum foam or inside the vacuum cup fitting when using rubber vacuum cups. The orifice fittings restrict the vacuum air flow if the cup is not fully covered by the product being handled.Therefore the vacuum generator selected should be sized according to the potential leakage that may occur. This is a very simple and cost effective solution. Self Closing ValvesThe SCV option requires a deeper cup plate to accommodate the self closing valves inside the Squid. The self closing valve will close if the vacuum cup does not seal properly against the load being handled. Therefore a much smaller vacuum generation device can be used. The Vacuforce self closing valve is also adjustable and therefore can be used on products which are porous. The valve rest position is under a spring force. Consequently high inertia or inverted positioning of the Squid will not inadvertently close the valve.
Partial Box Test Partial Box Handling
This demonstarton shows how The Squid can be used with self closing valves (VFSC3/8) to handle partially covered boxes. the box in this video weighs approximately 15lbs. The Squid is coupled to a 1.5HP regenerative blower. Vacuum is being turned on and off to The Squid via a manual valve on top of the body.
Pallet Handling Pallet Handling
This video demonstrates the Squid's ability in handling pallets.
Plastic Bale Handling Plastic Bale Palletizing
This project in Montreal, Canada utilizes a twin head Squid system offering seperate pick and place of 50lb bags of wood chips. the bags are plastic with about 50mm of sag when under load. VFBL40S vacuum cups were used to compensate for this variance.
Ice Bag Handling Ice Bag Handling
A demonstration of handling frozen bags of ice cubes to prove a larger project utilizing a 1/2 pllet size Squid system
Manual Press Loader Manual Press Loader
The Squid design in this application utilizes self closing valves to enable the successful handling of various size aluminum stamped plates which have through holes positioned in an infinite arrangement of patterns. the self closing valve option enables full vacuum on the cups sealed on complete surface ares of the product.
Pulp Packaging Handling Pulp Packaging Handling
A demonstration of being able to handle very rough surfaces including this pulp cardboard material typically found in electronic product packaging.
Generators CV Single Stage Venturi
CV Venturi The Vacuforce CV venturi offers single stage simplicity yet flow rates up to 8SCFM. Maximum vacuum is beyond 26"Hg and the SK models offer an integral vacuum switch for part presence detection.
Six models are available. The body is aluminum with a hard anodized finish. Venturi nozzles are nickel plated brass.
Special materials are available upon request such as stainless steel and Teflon. Please enquire with our head office.
ABM Generator 
The ABM series is a two stage vacuum generator capable of >25"Hg. This very lightweight vacuum generator weighs as little as 50g and is avioable in four sizes with a maximum vacuum flow of 8SCFM.
The ABX series is due in early 2012 and has a maximum vacuum level capability of 28"Hg.
Manufactured entirely of a thermoplastic material these small generator can be mounted locally or even directly to the vacuum cup.
VML and VMK Venturi VMK Series
VML Series
The VMK and VML venturi are fundmentally the same except for the way in which they are used. The VMK has a threaded vacuum port connetion whereas the VML is used inline with the vacuum port having a push-to-connect fitting.
These venturi are very compact and as shown in the image below are able to be installed in restricted space areas.
VMT Series
The VMT venturi uses the same components as the VML except that the exhaust rather than being integral to the body of the venturi is able to to be piped away via a push-to-connect fitting. Ideal for clean room enironments where the exhaust could interfere with the production process.
AM and AL Multi Stage Generator 
Features:
• Maximum Vacuum Level of 27.5Hg (-85kPa)
• Maximum Flow Rate 73SCFM
• Supply Pressure 50psi(g) Optimal (AL models _ 88psi)
• Noise Level <65dB(A)
• Option NRV models (for use in energy saving systems)
• Includes Silencer and Vacuum Gauge (as shown)
• PPS Body Material (polyphenylene sulphide)
The Energy Saving Kit Part Number ES213
This assembly connects directly to the AM and AL venturi models and offers an ON/OFF function for the generator, depending on the vacuum level in the attached system.
The switch has a set point range of 5-27Hg and is ideal for centralized vacuum systems or systems using vacuum valves as the operator. Generator models with a non return valve (NRV or check valve) on the vacuum inlet should be ordered for use with the energy saving kit.
VAB and VABS Venturi VAB Series
The VAB series of vacuum venturi offer vacuum levels up to 27"Hg and is available in various models depending on the tube connections and the venturi nozzle size. The exhuast is integral to the unit offering a quiet operation. This lightweight model is ideal for use on the end of vacuum tooling whre weight and mass create inertia.
VABS Series
The VABS series utilises the VAB venturi as described above. However it is coupled with the VAS series of vacuum switch to offer a very compact part presence vacuum generator. The unit has the same performance as the VAB unit.
Ideal for small pick and place applications where the user must know if the part being handled is located securely by the vacuum cup.
VFAV and VFMC 
VFAV Venturi
maintenance free
The VFAV adjustable vacuum venturi is able to be used to convey material such as streams of paper, string and metal chip waste. However its primary purpose is for use on very dirty vacuum pick and place applications such as brick or concrete block handling, lumber transfer etc.
Available with threaded ports for direct connection to the vacuum pick up device and exhaust piping. This venturi has no moving parts and can transfer media directly through with hinderance. Filtraton is not required. Port sizes up to G1 or 1NPT
VFMC Series
maintenance free
The VFMC is a low vacuum high / flow venturi. Its primary use is in the transfer of products such as pastci pellets, wood chips, paper off cut waste, small parts such as bottle tops and similar products.
Available with transfer passages up to 1.5" (38mm). The hard anodized finish offers extremely long life. Maintenance free.
AZH and AZU Venturi AZH Series
The AZH series of vacuum venturi are available in both high and low vacuum versions with a 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 1.3, 1.5, 1.8 or 2.0mm venturi orifice.
Various configurations are available with two fundamental assembly types
• Box Body internal exhaust
• Ported Body external exhaust
AZU Series
The AZU series of vacuum venturi are available in both high and low vacuum versions with either a 0.5mm or 0.7mm orifice.
All models utilize a Ø6mm push to connect fitting for both the compressed air supply and vacuum connection.
AZL Generator AZL112 Multistage Generator
The Vacuforce AZL series of multi stage ejector offer the user a compact and efficient vacuum generation solution. Available with various options including control valves for vacuum ON and compressed air release for faster cycle rates. This feature also aids in the ejection of dust and debris from the vacuum cup pick up surface.
The EB option includes a digital vacuum sensor
embedded in the unit which offers the user control and part presence for automated pick and place
applications. The specifications of the sensor are the same as the AP models.
AZL112 Multistage Generator
The Vacuforce AZL212 series of multi stage ejector is the same as the design of the AZL112 except for the vacuum flow capacity.
The AZL212 has twice the amount of venturi nozzles as the AZL112 series. Consequently the physical size is larger.
The AZL212 is not available with the control valves option but is available with the vacuum sensor as described above for the AZL112.
VMB & VMB VMB Series
R
The VMB series of venturi is used where multiple indepndent vacuum cups are in use. the supply port at the base of the unit connects to a common compressed air manifod with other multiple units. They all share the same compressed air supply but offer independent vacuum to the connected vacuum cups. The VMB has a pus-to-connect fitting for the exhaust to be piped away from the working area.
V
P
VMD Series
The VMD series is exactly the same as the VMB except that the exhaust is integral to the body of the unit.
R
V
P
ABM Mini Generators
AM/AL Generators
VML & VMK Inline Venturi
VAB & VABS Series Box Style
VFAV and VFMC Conveyers
VMB & VMD Venturi
AZL Multi Stage Generator
AZH and AZU Generic Single Stage Venturi
Vacuum Cups VFB Single Bellow Cups
DFC and VFF Flat Cups
VFB Single Bellows VFB Series Single Bellows Cups
The Vacuforce VFB series of vacuum cups are designed to offer the vacuum user a simple and effective generic style cup.
The single bellows style offer slight vertical movement aiding sheet separation and also compliance on concave and convex surfaces.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40 Durometer hardness respectively.
Cup Testing
PJG Short Bellows PJG Short Bellows Cups
The Vacuforce PJG series of vacuum cups are a generic single bellows style cup. Unlike many bellows cups, the design of this series offers very good rigidity when handling flat products as it pulls the load against a flat datum face.
The cup can be connected to machinery using simple fittings, bulkhead assemblies or sprung level compensators.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40 Durometer hardness respectively.
PFG Flat Cups PFG Series Flat Cups
The Vacuforce PFG series of vacuum cups are a generic flat style cup. The cup can be connected to machinery using simple fittings, bulkhead assemblies or sprung level compensators.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40 Durometer hardness respectively.
Diameters from 2mm through to 200mm.
Cup models from 60 - 200mm dimameter are bonded onto an aluminum fitting.
SB Single Bellows Cups SB Series Flat Cups
The Vacuforce SB series of vacuum cups are designed to offer the vacuum user a simple and effective generic style cup. The single bellows style offer slight vertical movement aiding sheet separation and also compliance on concave and convex surfaces.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40 Durometer hardness respectively.
The Vacuforce SB series of vacuum cups are designed to offer the vacuum user a simple and effective generic style cup.
The single bellows style offer slight vertical movement aiding sheet separation and also compliance on concave and convex surfaces.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40 Durometer hardness respectively.
VFBL Multiple Bellows Cups VFBL Multiple Bellows Cups
These multiple bellows cups are able to deform to the surface of bags, plastic materials and foodstuffs with ease due to the web thickness of the cup (inside to outside diameter).
These cups are available in Nitrile and silicone rubber.
The video below sows these cups handling a bag of ice.
PCG 2.5 Bellows Cups PCG Multiple Bellows Cups
The PCG series of bellows cups are used in applications that require lift separation such as cardboard handling, paper sheet and steel plate transfer.
Due to the multiple bellows design these cups are able to deform to the product being handled, such as food packaging or other concave or convex surfaces or part
surfaces which are approached at an angle.
DFC and VFF Flat Cups DFC Series Flat Cups
The DFC vacuum cups are used in heavy duty applications such as steel stamping. With the rubber compound molded directly to the threaded fitting this cup offers extreme strength compared to traditional push on vacuum cups.
Available in both Nitrile and Silicone compounds, there are three models with diameters of 50, 60 & 75mm.
Each of the cups includes a bonded aluminum fiting with a female thread of G3/8.
VFF Series Flat Cups
The Vacuforce VFF series of vacuum cups are a generic style flat cup. They require a seperate fitting to connect to the machinery being used.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40 Durometer hardness respectively.
PAG Flat Cups PAG Series Thin Film/Sheet Handling Cups
9.PAG Cups.pdf
The Vacuforce PAG series of vacuum cups are used to handle very thin plates which must not be deformed when the vacuum force is applied to the cup. The PAG cups are used to handle paper, thin film, plastic sheets and bag opening applications such as with candy filling machinery, etc. The deflection of the thin sealing lip is very small and allows the part to be held flat against the location face .
The cup can be connected to machinery using simple fittings, bulkhead assemblies or sprung level compensators.
These cups are available in both Nitrile and Silicone rubber with a 60 and 40
Durometer hardness respectively.
Foam Seal Cups 
Foam Seal Vacuum Cups
The foam vacuum cup is used to handle rough or embossed surfaces such as stone, concrete, brick or plastic embossed products as shown in the image opposite. The foam seal is able to be easily removed for replacement.
The holder is a hard andodized aluminum disk has a central vacuum port for use with a VFLC level compensator and an offset vacuum port for a gauge or an alternative vacuum port.
11.Foam Cups.pdf
The Vacuforce EPDM foam vacuum cups are developed for handling very rough or coarseproducts such as concrete, rough sawn wood, marble and granite etc. These cups are sold as two separate parts.
The foam is able to deform to the profile of the product being handled and offer a virtually air tight seal to enable safe lift and transfer.
1. Anodized Aluminum Support
2. Foam Seal
A mounting port is central to the support. This thread is suitable for either 1/2NPT or G1/2 studding.
If a separate vacuum port is required, the offset G1/4 port can be used. This port is used for either a venturi or vacuum gauge connection.
AZP Cups and Holders ZPT type Vacuum Cups and Holders
9.PAG Cups.pdf
The Vacuforce range of AZP cups and holders are available in three different types
Flat Flat with Ribs Single Bellows The cups are available from 2mm through to 50mm diameter and in three standard materials including NBR, Silicone and Urethane.
PJG Short Bellows Cups
PFG Flat Cups
SB Single Bellows Cups
PAG Thin Sheet Cups
VFBL Bellows Cups
Foam Seal Cups
PCG Bellows Cups
ZP Type Vacuum Cups
Vacuum Valves Self Closing Valves
Self Closing Valves VFSC3/8 Self Closing Valve
The Vacuforce self closing valve is used on vacuum cup handling systems where multiple cups are utilizing the same vacuum source. The valve is mounted directly onto the vacuum port of the vacuum cup. If that cup is damaged or does not seal against the load being lifted, the induced vacuum air flow closes the valve shut. This ensures that the vacuum level is retained in the rest of the system vacuum cups. This valve is adjustable and therefore can be used on various size vacuum cups or even on porous surfaces such as cardboard or MDF panels.
The cup mounting can be facilitated using either the G1/4 female or G3/8 male thread. The brass adjustment screw, depending on the cup fitting design can be adjusted with the vacuum cup installed.
Valve Testing
VFDAVV Direct Acting Poppet VFDAVV Direct Acting Poppet Valves
shown with coil attached
The Vacuforce direct acting vacuum valve has been developed for use in applications which require a full port vacuum flow without the need for an external air pilot.
As shown in the schematic below, port P is connected to the vacuum source (pump or generator/venturi). This valve is Normally Closed (NC). When power is connected to the valve via the coil (supplied seperately), the valve will open allowing vacuum flow between Ports P and A. When power is removed from the coil the valve will spring closed and port A and R (top of the solenoid stem) will connect, exhausting the vacuum pressure between the valve and the application, such as vacuum cups. This valves is currently available in either 1/4NPT or 1/2NPT ports.
The direct acting poppet design offers the user a cycle rate of 10cycles/sec with a choice of coils for different voltages. Download the data sheet above for details of the coil options.
JZF Series JZF Series Vacuum Poppet Valves
The JZF series of vacuum valves have been
developed to offer the end user a high vacuum flow solution when using larger vacuum pumps or generators.
With port sizes of either 1/2NPT or 1NPT, these vacuum valves are far superior in reaction time and cycles per second than traditional actuated ball valve type models normally used in these applications.
Manufactured in painted cast aluminum with Nitrile rubber seals but available with special seal materials on request, the JZF series stands alone in its performance and price bracket for the vacuum user.
The two types available are 3VJZF (solenoid actuated with pneumatic pilot) and 3AJZF (pneumatic pilot)
3VJZF
3AJZF
Schematics
VFDAVV Direct Acting Valve
JZF Series Poppet Valves
Sensors LF Series
LF Switches LF Series Economy Vacuum Switch
The LF20 vacuum and pressure switch has been developed to offer typical set points. Two standard models are available for vacuum in both a normally open and normally closed configuration.
As standard they are supplied with a rubber boot to offer
insulation of IP65.
This switch is compatible with air, water, hydraulic fluid, motor
oils and refrigerants.
Features include:
• Automatic reset
• Factory calibrated set points
• Rugged construction
PSF Switches 
PSF Diaphragm Switch
• Controllable hysteresis
• Field adjustable vacuum set point, 5.9 to 24.25Hg
• Snap action basic switch, up to 15A*, 125/250 VAC
• 1/8 NPT male vacuum connection
• Small size, lightweight
• Dependable long life (10+ million cycles)
VAS Switch VAS Series Diaphragm Switch
The VAS vacuum switch is a simple mechanical indicator of vacuum level achievement. Fully adjustable and with a simple push to connect fitting for vacuum connection the VAS switch is
ideal for most part presence applications.
Available with a either 5/32"(4mm) or 1/4" push-to-connect vacuum connection
AP Series AP Series Digital Vacuum Sensors
The AP25 and AP30 are the same fundamental switch with regards to performance and selection criteria.
They only differ in physical form and size.
Available in the following configurations.
• COMPOUND 29.9Hg - +14.7psi(g)
• PRESSURE -14.7psi(g) - 150psi(g)
• VACUUM 0 - 29Hg (0 - ¯101.3KPa)
PSF Series
VAS Series
AP Series
Filters
PVF Filters PVF Inline Vacuum Filter
Vacuforce plastic in-line filters provide easy monitoring, economy and safety. These shatterproof filters are 100% airtight, can withstand high pressures up to 150psi(g) and are designed for use in applications where glass cannot be tolerated. A 10 micron porous plastic element prolongs element life under the most adverse
environmental conditions.
These filters are typically used on general vacuum applications to prevent impurities from entering the vacuum pump of compressed air venturi inlet.
The transparent bowl enables visual inspection of the element
condition the quick release bowl offers the user fast element
replacement.
Replaceable porous plastic 10 micron filter element
Available in 1/8 to 1-1/2 NPT or BSP threads
F Series Filters F Series Vacuum Filters
Vacuforce heavy duty filters are normally used on more aggressive applications such as centralized vacuum pump or venturi applications.
The standard elements are pleated paper but pleated polyester is available (suffix /P) for damp applications where moisture is present in the air stream.
Available in both G thread and NPT from 3/8" through to 4" ports.
Body material is painted pressed steel. Stainless steel also avaialble. Please enquire at our head office.
Micro Inline Filters VFD & ALF Micro Inline Filters
These small filters are used in applications requiring filtration at the point of use such as small vacuum cup handling where a small vacuum venturi is the vacuum source and needs protection from dust and debris being pulled back from the work piece.
Available with 6mm, 1/4" and 5/16' (8mm) push-to-connect fittings.
VFD Filters
ALF Filters
The ALF filter is used as a simple inline filtration system and is particularly useful for connection to the ABM range of vacuum generators.
Compact and easy to change the ALF filter is able to be connected to both G3/8 and 3/8NPT female ports. The female G3/8 port will accept both G and NPT male 3/8 fittings.
PVF Filters
F Series L Port Fiters
Micro Inline Filters
Product Videos - Material Conveying
- SQUID Pallet Handling
- Plastic Bale Handling
- SQUID Ice Bag Handling
- SQUID Manual Press Loader
- Pulp Packaging Handling
- Plastic Bag Destacking
Material Conveying VFMC Series - Material Conveyers
The VFMC38 demonstration conveying paper towel to demostrate compatabiity for a distributor client.. Inlet pressure varies between 15 and 70psi to vary conveyance speed.
Plastic Bale Handling Plastic Bale Palletizing
This project in Montreal, Canada utilizes a twin head Squid system offering seperate pick and place of 50lb bags of wood chips. the bags are plastic with about 50mm of sag when under load. VFBL40S vacuum cups were used to compensate for this variance.
SQUID Ice Bag Handling Ice Bag Handling
A demonstration of handling frozen bags of ice cubes to prove a larger project utilizing a 1/2 pllet size Squid system
SQUID Manual Press Loader Manual Press Loader
The Squid design in this application utilizes self closing valves to enable the successful handling of various size aluminum stamped plates which have through holes positioned in an infinite arrangement of patterns. the self closing valve option enables full vacuum on the cups sealed on complete surface ares of the product.
Pulp Packaging Handling Pulp Packaging Handling
A demonstration of being able to handle very rough surfaces including this pulp cardboard material typically found in electronic product packaging.
Plastic Bag Destacking Plastic Bag Destacking
VFB20S was used for this application, a silicone single bellows 20mm diameter vacuum cup.
Catalogues NEW EDITION 2 CATALOGUE!
This new catalogue combining both pneuforce.com pneumatics and Vacuforce vacuum products is available now! 120 pages of data sheets on all standard products from both our brands.
Ideal for the fluid power distributor, OEM or end user customer, this catalogue brings together ALL Vacuforce and pneuforce.com standard products.
Need some? Click here and we'll send you one in early December!
Need a PDF now? Flip through the catagories below and click the > symbol to download the section you need.
Need the complete pneuforce.com + Vacuforce catalogue?
Click here for high resolution (38.5MB)
Click here for low resolution (12.5MB)
pneuforce fittings poster 2012c.pdf
download pneuforce.com
fittings poster
progress through imagination
