SERVO

• programmable to allow
multiple grip forces

• a single movement can
have multiple grip speeds

• multiple grip forces
require add-ons

• more than one speed
requires add-ons

• for dedicated process

Do I need more
than one force?

Do I need different
grip speeds?

What are my future
gripping needs?

• for adaptable processes

• finger travel adjustable
within large range

• different sized parts may
require multiple grippers

• typically small finger travel

Am I handling
different sized
parts?

PNEUMATIC

FLEXIBILITY

How do I control
force and grip speed?

How do I control
positioning?

• inherent in the design

• inherent in the design
by using position and/or
force feedback

• not without add-ons

Do I need to be
able to confirm an
object is being
gripped?

SERVO
• controls speed and
multiple accelerations
and decelerations
through programming

• not without add-ons

PNEUMATIC
• controls grip speed
through flow control

SPEED

SPEED

PNEUMATIC
GRIPPER
• applied pressure
dictates both
speed and force

SERVO GRIPPER
• independent control of speed and force

• multiple stop positions
can be programmed

• unable to control position
without add-ons

Do I need position
feedback?

SERVO
• controls force through
programming

PNEUMATIC
• controls force with
pressure regulator

FORCE

SERVO

PNEUMATIC

CONTROL

Pneumatic or Servo Gripper... which one is right for you?

FORCE

Reliability

Can it operate
in a sterile
environment?

• mechanically simple

• some grippers are
able to operate in
a clean room

• some grippers are
able to operate in hot
or cold temperatures

• requires air

Can I use compressed
air or is it available
in my process?
What is my
temperature
environment?

• grippers are lighter

What are my weight
constraints?

PNEUMATIC

ENVIRONMENTAL/OTHER

• a more complex
combination of
electromechanics

• some grippers are
able to operate in
a clean room

• some grippers are able
to operate in hot or cold
temperatures

• doesn’t require air

• grippers are heavier

SERVO