Prevent Suction Marks On Glass or Sensitive Surface
Since glass is highly fragile, vacuum pads are commonly used to transport glass panes, as they provide a secure grip and prevent the glass from sliding or shifting during transit. The industrial suction cups create a tight seal on the surface of the glass panes, allowing it to be lifted and moved with ease. Vacuum pads are especially useful for handling large, heavy, or delicate glass panes, as they can reduce the risk of breakage or damage during transportation. They are also commonly used in industries such as construction, glazing, and window manufacturing.
What is suction marks?
Suction marks, the formation of condensation on the exterior surface of a glass unit, can reveal surface imperfections, such as residue left behind by the vacuum pads used during the manufacturing and installation process. These marks, though not indicative of a defect in the glass, can temporarily be noticeable and may be removed through the use of a glass polishing agent.
It is important to note that the appearance of glass panes may appear smooth and even, however, upon close inspection, it is revealed that the surface is composed of microscopic peaks and valleys. During the handling process, small particles from the rubber suction cups may settle into these valleys, causing them to become visible when subjected to normal condensation conditions.
However, it is also worth mentioning that these marks will gradually fade or disappear with exposure to the elements. In the interim, they can be reduced or removed through the use of appropriate glass cleaning products or specialized polishing agents.
Suction marks on glass panes
Suction marks are streaks or marks left on the surface of glass after it has been handled with a vacuum lifter. These marks are a result of the slight deformation of the glass panes caused by the vacuum pressure created by the vacuum pad attached during the lifting process. More report could be discovered on GlassonWeb.
The extent of suction marks can vary based on several factors such as the vacuum pad size, pressure applied, and the glass type. Some suction marks may be minimal and eventually disappear over time, while others can be more noticeable and permanent.
To minimize the occurrence of suction marks, it is crucial to select the proper size vacuum pad, regulate the vacuum pressure appropriately, and handle the glass with care during the lifting process. Additionally, cleaning the glass panes to remove any residue from the vacuum pad is recommended.
euroTECH Vertriebs GmbH, based in Rosenfeld, Germany, is an expert in vacuum technology and has developed and patented a vacuum pad cover to eliminate suction marks on glass.
MTC suction cup cover, perfect solution for avoiding suction marks on glass
The production of vacuum pads involves fortifying the material with chemical components and softening agents, which can fog or react with the coating when they come in contact with glass. The suction cups can also cause abrasive damage to the glass, depending on the sealing lip and the structure of the supporting surface. If left unaddressed, these marks will become visible when the glass is exposed to steam.
euroTECH addressed this issue by developing its MTC suction cup covers, which prevent suction marks on delicate glass panes or even wood and sheet metal surfaces. The covers are made from a polyethylene material that is oil-free, silicone-free, and does not leave any marks on the workpieces if in good condition.
MTC suction plate covers are tear-resistant, flexible, breathable, anti-static, and do not produce lint. They can be washed and sewn, and their integrated elastic band ensures that they remain in the correct position when placed over the seals. The unique fiber structure of the material maintains its tear-resistant quality, even when scratched. Additionally, the covers are lightweight, weighing less than half of other materials with similar durability.
Install the suction cup covers properly with the following steps:
- Choose the appropriate size suction cup cover: ensure that the size of the suction cup cover matches the size of the vacuum pad used to lift the glass.
- Clean the glass surface: clean the glass surface to remove any dirt or debris that may interfere with the suction cup cover’s ability to grip the glass.
- Place the suction cup cover over the vacuum pad: place the suction cup cover over the vacuum pad, making sure that it is centered over the pad and covering the entire surface.
- Secure the suction cup cover in place: use the integrated elastic band on the suction cup cover to secure it in place over the vacuum pad.
- Lift the glass with care: proceed with lifting the glass using the vacuum pad, taking care to avoid excessive force or pressure that could cause suction marks to form.
- Inspect the glass surface: after the glass has been lifted, inspect the surface for any suction marks or damage. If any marks are present, use a glass cleaning product or specialized polishing agent to remove them.
Important notes on maintaining best performance of vacuum cups covers
However, it is important to note that the use of vacuum pads covers decreases the friction coefficient, which can vary depending on the seal geometry. During horizontal transport, the holding power decreases by approximately 2%, while during vertical transport, around 50% of holding power is lost. This can be easily compensated by using larger or additional suction plates. euroTECH takes customer requests for suction plate covers into consideration during project planning and provides vacuum pads with the appropriate carrying capacity. The company offers suction cup covers in various sizes, including ones for oval suction cups.
euroTECH is a leading provider of handling and transport solutions in the vacuum technology field. The company develops customized vacuum systems and components for automated handling tasks and offers a modular construction system that allows components to be adjusted to meet individual customer needs and facilitates quick and cost-saving spare part replacements.