It is the published nominal axial spring travel of this level compensator (0.98 in (25mm)). It helps the cup contact parts at different heights. Leave enough usable travel for the actual height variation and avoid bottoming out the mechanism.

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.

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.

IN identifies the internal spring arrangement; M18 identifies the metric bulkhead mounting thread that secures the holder to the tooling. Neither code is the suction cup thread size.

Use a suction cup or adapter with the mating G1/4 connection. The G1/4 cup connection mounts the suction cup, the G1/8 vacuum port connects the vacuum line, and the M18 bulkhead thread secures the level compensator to the tooling.

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 G1/4 connection. Select fittings for the actual thread form and sealing method.

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.

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.