Piab USA in Hingham, Mass., introduced a new material for its line of piGrip suction cups, as well as its smaller Bellows and Universal models. Injection molding end-of-arm tooling is a key market.

Piab said the material, called HNBR, has superior mechanical properties for excellent durability, tear and abrasion resistance. That means the suction cups have a longer lifetime than conventional cups, the company claims.

For injection molding, the process to pick a part out of a mold can now start earlier, without waiting to cool down the tool or the part. The suction cups are silicone-free, so they leave no marks and can be used to handle parts prior to painting, or to handle sensitive surfaces such as glass.

Tel. 800-321-7422, email mike.tuohey@piab.com.