Vacuforce VFLCEX1280-80M20 | 80mm Level Compensator
VFLCEX1280-80M20 | 80mm stroke | G1/2 cup thread | M20 mounting thread
VFLCEX1280-80M20 is a Vacuforce spring-loaded vacuum cup holder with 3.15 in (80mm) of nominal axial compensation. It provides vertical compliance in multi-cup end-of-arm tooling, helping vacuum cups contact sheet metal, panels or plates that sit at different heights.
The external spring provides the axial return action. The rotating configuration suits pickup positions where the cup does not need to hold a fixed angular orientation.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | VFLCEX1280-80M20 |
| Manufacturer | Vacuforce |
| Product type | Spring-loaded vacuum cup holder / level compensator |
| Nominal axial stroke | 3.15 in (80mm) |
| Spring arrangement | External spring |
| Rotational design | Rotating |
| Suction cup connection | G1/2 (BSPP G) male |
| Vacuum supply connection | G1/8 (BSPP G) female |
| Bulkhead mounting thread | M20 (metric) |
| Existing catalogue HTS code | 7609.00.0000 |
Mounting and Vacuum Connection
Use the M20 metric bulkhead mounting thread to secure the holder to the tooling plate. The suction cup attaches at the G1/2 (BSPP G) male connection; supply vacuum through the separate G1/8 (BSPP G) female connection. These interfaces have different functions and should not be confused with NPT or universal-thread fittings.
Set the mounting position so the spring can travel without binding or reaching its mechanical stop on each cycle. Keep the holder aligned with its intended axial motion and inspect the mating cup and vacuum seals.
Design Features
- 3.15 in (80mm) nominal axial stroke
- External spring construction
- Rotating cup-holder arrangement
- G1/2 cup connection and G1/8 vacuum port
- M20 bulkhead mounting thread
- Vacuforce catalogue construction includes hard-anodized aluminium fittings, nickel-plated bushings/locknuts, and anodized aluminium or chrome-plated steel rods (component-dependent)
Typical Applications
- Multi-cup EOAT for stamping presses, sheet-metal transfer and metal-plate pickup
- Pick-and-place systems that must accommodate small variations in workpiece or fixture height
- Vacuum grippers requiring a controlled amount of vertical spring travel during contact
- Round-cup tooling where a fixed cup rotation angle is not essential
- Tooling where an external return spring is suitable and accessible for inspection
Engineering note: A level compensator adds axial compliance; it is not a vacuum generator or a rated lifting device by itself. Confirm spring force, mounting dimensions, suction-cup compatibility, load path, duty cycle and safe operating limits against the relevant drawings and application requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 80mm stroke mean on VFLCEX1280-80M20?+
It is the published nominal axial spring travel of this level compensator (3.15 in (80mm)). It helps the cup contact parts at different heights. Leave enough usable travel for the actual height variation and avoid bottoming out the mechanism.
Why install a level compensator on vacuum end-of-arm tooling?+
A spring-loaded holder allows individual suction cups to move axially as they meet a sheet, plate or part. This helps multiple cups reach their sealing surfaces despite uneven heights and can reduce pickup impact. It does not create vacuum or determine lifting capacity.
When should I use a rotating cup holder rather than an NR model?+
A rotating model suits applications where angular cup orientation is not critical, often with round suction cups. Select an NR version when a square or oval cup must remain aligned to the workpiece.
What do the EXTERNAL and M20 parts of this model mean?+
EX identifies the external spring arrangement; M20 identifies the metric bulkhead mounting thread that secures the holder to the tooling. Neither code is the suction cup thread size.
Which suction cup thread fits VFLCEX1280-80M20?+
Use a suction cup or adapter with the mating G1/2 connection. The G1/2 cup connection mounts the suction cup, the G1/8 vacuum port connects the vacuum line, and the M20 bulkhead thread secures the level compensator to the tooling.
Where should the vacuum tubing connect on VFLCEX1280-80M20?+
Connect the vacuum source to the holder's G1/8 vacuum feed port using a compatible fitting. The vacuum path then supplies the cup mounted to its separate G1/2 connection. Select fittings for the actual thread form and sealing method.
How do I select between 80mm and a longer or shorter level compensator?+
Measure the expected variation in pickup height, tooling clearance, approach distance and available working stroke. Longer travel may help with greater variation but should not be used as a substitute for correct tool positioning and spring-force selection.
Does the compensator set the safe lifting weight of the vacuum cup?+
No. Load capacity depends on the suction cup area, attainable vacuum, friction, payload orientation, movement and acceleration, plus mechanical limits of the holder. Check the spring/load specifications and use the machine design safety factor; no spring-force rating is assumed here.
Ships from Indianapolis, USA
- Stock: 10
