PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
www.schmalz.com
EN | 11
2 Product description
2.1 General description
The Schmalz compact terminal product described here is referred to below as the
SCTMi.
The SCTMi is a compact unit of multiple vacuum generators (ejectors).
It can be used to handle different parts simultaneously and independently using just one vacuum
system.
The SCTMi has an IO-Link class B interface.
The compressed air can be supplied centrally for all of the ejectors or, alternatively, separately for
each individual ejector.
Thanks to its modular design, up to 16 individual ejectors can be controlled and configured
independently. Each ejector has an autonomous energy and process control for monitoring the
vacuum circuits.
All of the settings, parameters and measurement and analysis data are made available centrally via
IO-Link.
Additionally, a multitude of information and status reports for the SCTMi can be accessed using
wireless communication with NFC (Near Field Communication).
Description of the ejectors
The Venturi nozzle is activated and deactivated using the suction command. In the NO version, the
Venturi nozzle is deactivated when the suction input signal is present. In the NC version, the Venturi
nozzle is activated when the suction input signal is present. An integrated sensor records the vacuum
generated by the Venturi nozzle. The exact vacuum level can be read from the IO-Link process data.
The ejector has an integrated air-saving function. The ejector automatically regulates the vacuum
while in suction mode. The electronics system switches the Venturi nozzle off when the switching point
H1 set by the user is reached.
When objects with dense surfaces are picked up, the integrated non-return valve prevents the vacuum
from dropping. If leakage causes the system vacuum to drop below the switching point H1 - h1, the
Venturi nozzle is switched on again.
Depending on the vacuum, the H2 process data bit is set once a workpiece is picked up safely. This
serves as an approval to continue the handling process.
In blow-off mode, the vacuum circuit of the ejector is supplied with compressed air. This ensures that
the vacuum drops quickly, depositing the workpiece quickly as well.
With the integrated status display in each ejector, the current vacuum level can be visualized with an
LED bar together with the valve status.
The ejectors also have a button that can be used for manual operation.