Mini Vacuum Venturi Generator with Part Presence

Compact Vacuum Venturi Generators with Integrated Vacuum Switch

The Vacuforce VABS Series vacuum venturi generators combine vacuum generation, vacuum sensing and simple installation into one compact package. Designed for robotic automation, pick-and-place systems, packaging machinery and vacuum cup applications, the VABS Series features an integrated vacuum switch and push-to-connect fittings for both compressed air supply and vacuum connections.

Its lightweight box-style construction minimizes installation space while providing reliable vacuum generation and part presence monitoring. The integrated vacuum switch allows machine controllers and PLCs to verify successful product pickup, helping improve automation reliability and reduce dropped products.

What Is the VABS Vacuum Generator?

The VABS Series is a compact vacuum venturi generator that creates vacuum using compressed air. Unlike electric vacuum pumps, venturi generators contain no moving parts, making them highly reliable and virtually maintenance free.

The integrated vacuum switch provides real-time vacuum confirmation, allowing robots and automation equipment to verify that a product has been successfully gripped before movement begins.

VABS Series Features

• Integrated Vacuum Switch: Built-in vacuum sensing for part presence verification.
• Compact Box Design: Ideal for installations where space is limited.
• Lightweight Construction: Suitable for robotic end-of-arm tooling applications.
• Push-to-Connect Fittings: Simplifies installation and maintenance.
• Internal Silencer: Reduces exhaust noise during operation.
• Multiple Tube Sizes: Available for both inch and metric tubing systems.

Available Connection Sizes

The VABS Series is designed for direct connection to common pneumatic tubing sizes used throughout North American and international automation systems.

• Inch Tube Sizes: 5/32", 1/4", 5/16" and 3/8"
• Metric Tube Sizes: 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm

Integrated push-to-connect fittings allow quick installation without requiring additional threaded adapters or fittings.

Why Use an Integrated Vacuum Switch?

One of the most common causes of product handling failures is attempting to move a product before sufficient vacuum has been achieved. The integrated vacuum switch monitors vacuum level and provides a signal to the PLC or machine controller once the required vacuum level is reached.

This allows the automation system to confirm successful pickup before movement begins, reducing product loss, machine faults and downtime.

Applications for the VABS Vacuum Generator

• Robotic pick-and-place systems
• Vacuum cup automation
• Packaging machinery
• Carton handling systems
• Plastic part handling
• Electronics assembly
• CNC machine loading
• Small part automation
• End-of-arm tooling (EOAT)
• Factory automation systems

Advantages of Point-of-Use Vacuum Generation

Because the VABS generator is compact and lightweight, it can often be mounted directly on the robot arm or machine tooling. Generating vacuum close to the suction cups reduces vacuum line length, improves response time and increases overall vacuum system efficiency.

This decentralized vacuum approach is commonly used in modern robotic automation because it improves cycle times and reduces installation complexity.