How to Adjust the Inductive Proximity Sensor on a Pneumatic Gripper

In automated production systems, accurate position detection is essential for stable gripping performance. FOUK pneumatic grippers use inductive proximity sensors to monitor different operating positions, helping users identify whether the pneumatic gripper is fully open, gripping a workpiece, or operating without a load.

This article explains how to adjust the sensor detection position and set up reliable signal feedback for FOUK pneumatic grippers.

How the Sensor Detection System Works

Inside the pneumatic gripper, there is a movable sensing target installed on the slider. By adjusting the front and rear position of this sensing target, the inductive proximity sensor can detect different pneumatic gripper states.

When the sensing target moves close to the sensor, the sensor receives a signal and the indicator light turns on, showing that the detection position has been reached.

Adjusting the Sensor Sensing Target Position

Before adjustment, loosen the fixing plate.

Then rotate the adjustment screw located in the middle of the slider:

Turn counterclockwise to move the sensing target inward.

Turn clockwise to move the sensing target outward.

By adjusting the position of the sensing target, users can set the required detection point according to the pneumatic gripper’s working condition.

Installing and Setting the Proximity Sensor

First, loosen the sensor fixing plate and insert the inductive proximity sensor into the pneumatic gripper.

The pneumatic gripper has an internal positioning limit, so the sensor can be pushed directly into the correct position.

After installation, use a torque wrench set to 0.3 Nm to tighten the fixing block.

The sensor supports three detection modes:

1. Fully Open Detection

When the pneumatic gripper is completely open, the sensing target on the right side contacts the sensor, and the indicator light turns on.

2. Workpiece Gripping Detection

When the pneumatic gripper clamps a workpiece, the sensing target on the left side contacts the sensor, and the indicator light turns on.

3. Empty Grip Detection

When the pneumatic gripper is not holding a workpiece, neither side contacts the sensor, and both indicator lights remain off.

Adjusting the Open Position Signal

To adjust the open-position detection:

1. Loosen the sensor fixing plate.

2. Rotate the open-position sensing target clockwise until it reaches the outermost position.

3. Supply air to the pneumatic gripper and close then reopen it to ensure it reaches the maximum open position.

4. Slowly rotate the adjustment screw counterclockwise until the sensing target approaches the sensor and the indicator light turns on.

After the light turns on, rotate the adjustment screw back slightly. The sensing target should be positioned within the effective sensing range.

It is recommended to rotate the adjustment screw outward by approximately 2–3 additional turns after the light turns off. This helps maintain a stable detection distance of around 1 mm.

Finally, tighten the fixing block with the torque wrench and confirm that:

The open-position signal is detected correctly.

The sensor light turns off when the pneumatic gripper is holding a workpiece.

This ensures that the sensor is only detecting the fully open position.

Adjusting the Workpiece Gripping Signal

To set the gripping detection position:

1. Loosen the sensor fixing plate and install the proximity sensor.

2. Tighten the fixing block using the torque wrench.

3. Reset the sensing position by turning the adjustment point clockwise.

4. Place a workpiece inside the pneumatic gripper and allow it to clamp securely.

5. Slowly rotate the sensing target inward (counterclockwise) while observing the sensor indicator light.

When the sensor light turns on, continue adjusting another 2–3 turns to keep the sensing target within the central detection area of the sensor.

This provides a stable gripping detection signal.

Summary of Sensor Detection Modes

The FOUK pneumatic gripper sensor system provides three operating states:

Empty grip state: Both sensors remain off, triggering an empty grip warning.

Fully open state: The right-side sensor indicator turns on.

Workpiece gripping state: The left-side sensor indicator turns on.

Proper adjustment of the inductive proximity sensor helps improve position monitoring accuracy and ensures reliable operation of the pneumatic gripper in automated applications.