New energy chain is up to 37 per cent lighter

10 February 2012

he second generation E6.1 energy chain from igus UK is up to 37 percent lighter than its predecessor, as well as being quieter, easier to assemble and open to more applications possibilities. The so-called polygon effect that occurs when an energy chain is rolling is reduced to a minimum, resulting in extremely low noise of down to 37dB(A). There are also improvements in abrasion resistance, making it suitable for clean room applications where up to ISO Class 1 – IPA is required.

The elastic polymer spring elements connect the side parts of the energy chain to one another and prevent relative movements between the joints. Since the classic pin/bore connection is no longer used, friction and abrasion are reduced to a minimum even after millions of rolling cycles. According to an expert report presented by Cologne Technical College, up to 3.8 billion cycles were confirmed possible with the E6.1, depending on the machine application.

The significant weight saving of up to 37 per cent improves dynamics and lowers the required drive force; the new E6.1 is also 2dB(A) quieter. The optimised spring mechanism makes the E6.1 more modular, enabling the energy chain to be extended and shortened as required and helps speed up assembly and disassembly time. Whilst having the same internal dimensions, the E6.1 is both narrower and lighter, and the smooth interior helps increase the service life of cables and hoses.

The combination of inner link and outer link on the new E6.1 offers users a whole range of new possibilities. The pretension of the energy chain can be adjusted by reversing the inner link. This is very useful for applications in tight spaces or for gliding applications. If, on the other hand, the outer link is reversed, the stop-dog limit is changed, and with it the direction of rotation of the energy chain; this makes small circular movements and S-shaped movements possible, in “zigzag” chains for example.