The SMC MHZL2-20D2 is a two-finger, double-acting, parallel pneumatic gripper designed for stable and repeatable workholding in automated handling systems. It belongs to SMC’s MHZ2 family and is positioned as a long-stroke parallel gripper, which makes it suitable for applications where standard stroke travel is not enough for reliable pick-and-place movement, part transfer, or machine loading tasks. According to RS product data, this model uses a 20 mm bore, supports parallel gripping, and is built for industrial pneumatic automation environments.
A key advantage of the MHZL2-20D2 is its balance between compact size and handling capability. The long-stroke design helps users handle parts with wider dimensional variation or longer gripping travel requirements, while the parallel jaw motion supports consistent contact and alignment. RS also describes the MHZ2 series as a standard parallel air gripper with high rigidity and high accuracy, supported by a linear guide structure and improved mounting repeatability.
This product is commonly selected for automation lines that require dependable gripping performance, fast cycling, and clean pneumatic actuation. Because it is a pneumatic gripper, it is also a practical choice in environments where electric gripping systems may be too complex, too costly, or unnecessary for the target cycle and payload.
Key Specifications
The following table summarizes the main product parameters for SMC MHZL2-20D2 based on distributor-listed technical information.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Model | SMC MHZL2-20D2 |
| Product Type | Pneumatic Gripper |
| Gripping Type | Parallel |
| Number of Fingers | 2 |
| Action Type | Double Acting |
| Bore Size | 20 mm |
| Series | MHZ2 (Long Stroke Type) |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 7 bar |
| Gripping Force (External) | 42 N |
| Gripping Force (Internal) | 66 N |
| Maximum Operating Frequency | 120 cpm |
| Operating Temperature Range | -10°C to 60°C |
| Product Net Weight | 270 g |
| Country of Origin (listed) | Japan |
Source data indicates that the MHZL2-20D2 is also part of a broader MHZ2 family range that includes multiple bore sizes and configurable options. RS additionally notes that the series is auto-switch capable and available in different action configurations within the series family.
Product Weight and Why It Matters
The SMC MHZL2-20D2 weight is 270 g (0.27 kg), as listed on RS. This is an important specification for system design because gripper weight directly affects:
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Robot payload planning
For robot end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), the gripper mass must be included in payload calculations together with brackets, fittings, and the workpiece. A lighter gripper improves acceleration and helps maintain cycle speed. -
Axis load on linear slides or gantries
In Cartesian or transfer systems, moving mass influences motor sizing, acceleration profiles, and long-term wear. -
Dynamic stability
Lower mass at the moving end can reduce vibration and improve repeatability, especially in high-speed pick-and-place applications. -
Fixture and bracket design
Knowing the gripper weight in advance helps avoid under-designed mounting plates and improves mechanical reliability.
For many automation engineers, this makes the 270 g figure a useful baseline when comparing pneumatic grippers in the same class.
Performance Characteristics
1) Long Stroke Capability for Wider Part Tolerance
The MHZL2 series is identified as a long stroke type parallel gripper, which is especially useful when parts vary slightly in size or when the jaw opening/closing travel needs extra margin. This is common in semi-structured production environments, packaging lines, and machine tending where part position may not be perfectly fixed every cycle. RS explicitly labels this product as a long stroke type in the MHZ2 family.
2) Double-Acting Pneumatic Control
The MHZL2-20D2 is a double-acting model, meaning compressed air is used for both opening and closing motions. This design typically provides more stable and controllable operation than spring-return types when repeatability and cycle consistency are important. It is also a preferred choice for systems that need reliable jaw movement under varying loads and speeds.
3) Practical Gripping Force for Industrial Handling
The listed gripping force values are 42 N external and 66 N internal, which makes this model suitable for handling many small to medium industrial components, depending on finger design, gripping point distance, friction conditions, and safety factor. In real applications, users should always calculate effective gripping force at the actual finger length and include a safety margin for acceleration and vibration.
4) Fast Cycle Operation
With a listed maximum operating frequency of 120 cpm, the MHZL2-20D2 is appropriate for repetitive automation tasks where throughput matters. This supports use in compact assembly stations, transfer mechanisms, sorting systems, and palletizing sub-processes, provided pneumatic supply and control valve sizing are correctly matched.
Typical Applications
The SMC MHZL2-20D2 is well suited for a broad range of industrial automation tasks, including:
| Application Area | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|
| Pick and Place Automation | Picking components from trays, conveyors, or feeders |
| Machine Tending | Loading and unloading CNC or processing equipment |
| Assembly Lines | Positioning and holding parts during assembly steps |
| Packaging Systems | Handling packaged items or formed parts |
| Inspection Stations | Part gripping during camera or sensor inspection |
| Transfer Units | Moving components between fixtures or process stations |
Because it is a pneumatic gripper, the MHZL2-20D2 is also attractive for users who prioritize simple maintenance, stable operation, and compatibility with existing compressed-air systems.
Selection Considerations Before Purchase
When selecting the MHZL2-20D2 for a project, it is best practice to review the following engineering points:
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Workpiece shape and contact surface
The jaw fingers are usually custom-designed. Grip reliability depends heavily on finger geometry, contact material, and friction. -
Grip point distance
The farther the gripping point is from the jaw base, the lower the effective gripping force and rigidity. -
Air pressure stability
The model supports up to 7 bar, but real gripping consistency depends on regulator quality and pneumatic line sizing. -
Cycle speed target
If the application runs near the upper cycle limit, valve response, tubing diameter, and cushioning conditions should be optimized. -
Temperature range
RS lists an operating range of -10°C to 60°C, which covers many factory environments, but extreme ambient conditions should still be checked in the official catalog or datasheet before final specification. -
Mounting repeatability requirements
RS mentions improved mounting repeatability and high rigidity for the MHZ2 series, making it a good fit for applications requiring consistent jaw positioning.
Why the SMC MHZL2-20D2 Is a Good Industrial Choice
SMC is widely used in industrial pneumatics, and the MHZL2-20D2 reflects the practical design priorities expected in factory automation: stable parallel gripping, long stroke movement, pneumatic simplicity, and compatibility with standard automation components. For users building new automation cells or upgrading existing pneumatic EOAT systems, this model provides a strong combination of:
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Compact industrial form factor
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Useful gripping force for general handling
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Long stroke functionality
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Fast cycle capability
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Manageable product weight (270 g)
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Broad suitability for automated production environments
In short, the SMC MHZL2-20D2 is a reliable long-stroke pneumatic parallel gripper for engineers and system integrators who need repeatable handling performance without the complexity of electric gripper systems. It is particularly suitable for automated equipment where robustness, speed, and straightforward pneumatic control are primary requirements.
