409-35011
Rev C
15
of 54
Gripper
Holding the cable during the cycle, the gripper is a key part of the machine. Once the sequence is
initiated, the actuator will bring the gripper jaws closer together (see Figure 14) until the cable is securely
held. In response to the process parameters, the gripper will move the end of the cable to the correct
location with respect to the blades and rollers.
CAUTION
The gripper will move inward and outward from the machine during the cycle, which will cause longer cables to move. This will
also move the Cable Tunnel that extends outside of the machine guarding.
Figure 14
Airlock Valve
The airlock valve is designed to improve the performance of the machine by maintaining the grip pressure
at all times (see Figure 6). If the incoming air supply volume is inadequate, the cable grip force could be
reduced during the vacuum cycle. It also allows the cable grip to be released, if the guard door is opened
and the red button on top of the airlock valve is depressed.