Festo OVPN Multistage Vacuum Generator: A Vacuum Breakthrough for Porous Materials | Doskee Automation

OVPN Multistage Vacuum Generator: No More “Leaks” on Porous Materials

In packaging and logistics automation, vacuum handling of porous materials — cardboard, corrugated board, kraft paper bags — has long been a challenge: air constantly leaks through the surface micropores, making vacuum hard to establish, grip unstable, and speed limited. Festo’s OVPN multistage vacuum generator, its first of its kind, was built specifically for these porous-material applications, lifting vacuum capability to a new level.

The OVPN generates suction flow through multiple connected Venturi nozzles, working with the OASP multistage cartridge to deliver high initial suction flow far beyond conventional single-stage generators. Depending on model, its suction flow rate ranges from 245 to 960 lpm, while a medium single-stage vacuum generator typically produces only about 100 lpm — nearly a ninefold difference. Even highly porous materials can be evacuated quickly and held with stable vacuum, making high-speed handling practical.

OASP Cartridge: Flexible, Close to the Cup

The OASP multistage cartridge paired with the OVPN offers a suction flow range of 160 to 245 lpm in two- or three-stage designs, with the three-stage version reaching the 245 lpm top end. The OASP can be used as a bare generator cartridge or fitted directly onto a suction cup to shorten evacuation distance and speed up response; a version with a retaining cap and built-in silencer is also available. Both OVPN and OASP use lightweight, compact designs suited to centralized vacuum generation or decentralized placement right at the point of use.

Energy Savings and Lower Noise: The Key to Sustainable Operation

The multistage Venturi nozzles deliver more than just flow — they optimize air consumption while providing high initial suction flow, balancing grip capability with energy efficiency. On packaging lines that run continuously with many vacuum points, that translates directly into meaningful compressed-air cost savings.

Noise is another long-standing pain point in packaging shops. The OVPN’s integrated open silencer significantly reduces noise during high-frequency exhaust, improving the working environment. Combined with its ability to switch between centralized and decentralized vacuum generation, the OVPN adapts to layouts ranging from single machines to whole lines, and from simple pick to complex multi-station operations.

Typical Applications and Selection Support

Typical OVPN applications include overhead palletizing, case erecting, and bag feeding, primarily in factory automation and packaging machinery — where reliable gripping of porous cartons, corrugated boxes, and paper bags safeguards both cycle time and yield.

For supporting components, Festo’s vacuum generator line spans 6.2 to 960 lpm suction flow, covering everything from fine small parts to large porous sheets. Suction cups come in nitrile rubber, polyurethane, silicone, and natural rubber, in universal, flat, bellows, and special gripper shapes. Mounting and connection elements, height and angle compensation, vacuum gauges, filters, and security valves round out the portfolio for a complete end-to-end vacuum system.

Doskee Automation specializes in industrial automation and pneumatic components, offering selection and sourcing support for Festo OVPN multistage vacuum generators, OASP cartridges, suction cups, and accessories. If you’re looking for a high-flow, energy-efficient vacuum solution for handling porous materials like cardboard and corrugated board, please contact us for selection guidance and a quote tailored to your process.

Reference: Adapted from PneumaticTips “OVPN multistage pneumatic vacuum generator for porous materials” by Mary Gannon (2024-11-07)