Case Erector Vacuum Fault

PKG-002

Case erector reports vacuum loss at suction cups. Cannot pick and open cardboard blanks for case forming.

medium packaging

packaging vacuum case erector suction cup carton

Probable Causes (ranked)

Vacuum pump not running or underperforming
Suction cups worn, cracked, or wrong type for carton material
Vacuum hose kinked, disconnected, or leaking
Cardboard blank too dusty — vacuum cannot seal against surface
Vacuum level switch calibrated too high — nuisance fault

Fix Steps

1 Check vacuum pump — verify it's running and gauge reads spec (typically -20" Hg)
2 Inspect suction cups — replace if worn, cracked, or deformed
3 Check all vacuum hoses for kinks, cuts, and secure connections
4 Clean suction cups and cardboard blank contact area
5 Verify vacuum level switch threshold setting — adjust per machine spec
6 If using venturi generators, check air supply pressure (80-90 PSI typical)

Field Trick

Wet your finger and press it over a suction cup while the pump is running. If you feel strong suction, the cups are fine and the blank surface is the problem. Try a different carton lot.

Suggested Replacement Parts

Parts matched to fault category: Solenoid Valve

SMC SY3120 Solenoid Valve P/N: SY3120-5LZD-M5 5/2 way, 24VDC, M5 ports, direct piping, 0.15-0.7 MPa

AutomationDirect $32.00 Amazon $28.00 McMaster-Carr $45.00 Grainger $42.00

Festo VUVG Solenoid Valve P/N: VUVG-LK14-M52-AT-G18-1R8L 5/2 way, 24VDC, G1/8 ports, spring return

AutomationDirect $55.00 Amazon $62.00 Grainger $70.00

Air Pressure Regulator + Filter Combo P/N: AW30-03BG SMC AW series, 3/8 NPT, 5-125 PSI, with gauge and bowl guard

AutomationDirect $38.00 Amazon $32.00 McMaster-Carr $48.00

Prices are estimates. Verify part numbers match your equipment before ordering.

Need a deeper diagnosis with photo analysis and AI-powered troubleshooting?

Run Full Diagnosis