Drives & Grippers

What is the difference between drives and grippers?

A gripper is a component that allows the holding of an object to be manipulated. This device enables holding, handling, tightening and releasing of objects in automated systems. Grippers can be attached to a robot or parts of a fixed automation system.

A drive is a device used to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. Essentially, a drive harnesses and controls the electrical energy sent to a motor. The drive can indirectly control a motor's speed and torque by feeding the electricity to the motor in varying amounts and frequencies. Together a motor and drive make up the "drive system".

Applications of drives & grippers

Uses of grippers:

• Assembly tasks 
• Machine tending tasks 
• Room cleaning 
• Lab automation 
• Mobile robots 
• And more

Drives are used in:

• Machine tool drives
• Cranes & hoist motors
• Lifts
• Lathes, milling & grinding machines
• Frequency converters
• Air compressors
• Punches, presses & shears
• Electric traction
• Pumps
• Refrigeration & air conditioning 
• Belt conveyors
• Printing machinery
• And more

Types of drives and grippers

There are different types of drives and grippers in the market, including:

Drives

• DC drives
• AC drives
• Inverter drives
• Servo drives/ servo motors
• Steppers
• Induction motors
• Switched reluctance motors
• Permanent magnet synchronous motors

Grippers

• Vacuum grippers
• Pneumatic grippers
• Hydraulic grippers
• Servo-electric grippers