Press releasePM 0911-EU
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Quieter, faster
“E6.1”Energy chain:new design, up to 37 percent lighter
The Cologne-based energy chain expert igus GmbH, has completely redesigned many features of its “quiet chain” – the fast, quiet, low-vibration “E6” series. The second generation “E6.1” that was presented at Hanover is up to 37 percent lighter,even quieter than its predecessor, easier to assemble and makes new solutions possible.
For ten years now, the igus “E6” series has been in use all over the world wherever extremely quiet and low-vibration cable carrying is required at maximum speeds and with high accelerations. The so-called polygon effect that can occur when an energy chain is unrolled is reduced to a minimum, resulting in extremely low noise of down to 37 dB(A). In addition, this chain is first choice whenever the focus is on abrasion-resistance and low wear, for example where suitability for clean room applications is required (up to ISO Class 1 – IPA). The elastic polymer spring elements that connect the side parts of the energy chain to one another and prevent relative movements between the joints are typical for the “E6”. Since the classic bolt/hole connection is no longer used, friction and abrasion are reduced to a minimum even after millions rolling cycles. According to an expert report presented by CologneTechnicalCollege, 3.8 billion possible cycles were confirmed, depending on the machine program.
Extend, shortenand assemble quickly
The second generation “E6.1” presented at the Hanover Fair has a narrower and lighter design despite the interior dimensions remaining the same. The significant weight saving of up to 37 percent (compared to the existing “E6.29”) makes even greater dynamics and less drive force possible. It is also 2 dB(A) quieter compared with the “E6.29”. In addition, the new energy chain is much more modular, it can be extended and shortened as required by simple clipping and can be assembled and taken apart again quickly. To make this possible, changes were made to the spring connector, which is now simply inserted and fixed in place by means of a catch, making assembly easier.
Open on inner or outer radius
The changes in design are accompanied by improvements in assembly and use. The opening cross-bars of the new “E6.1” can now be swung open to both sides by 115 degrees on both the inner and outer radius and no longer have to be removed completely, although this is still possible if required.
Inner contour goes easy on the cables
In addition, a very smooth inner contour that goes easy on the cables increases the service life of cables and hoses claims development Manager Andreas Hermey. “Thanks to the consistent new design it was possible to make the inner links much more generous and larger in size.” These are in most contact with the cables. “In addition, the outer links have been rounded off cleanly.” The opening cross-bars have also be completely revised in order to optimise cable protection.
Energy Chain can now also be used for circular and S shape movements
In addition, 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 turned, the stop-dog limitat 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.
Photo PM0911-01: igus GmbH, Cologne
Typical for the “E6” series from igus GmbH, Cologne, are the extremely quiet, low-vibration running properties at high speeds and with highly dynamic acceleration rates, coupled with abrasion resistance and low wear. The new “E6.1” presented at Hanover is up to 37 percent lighter, even quieter than its predecessor, easier to assemble and makes additional designs possible.
Picture PM0911-02: igus GmbH, Cologne
The new “E6.1” is narrower and lighter despite having the same interior dimensions and the smooth inner contour goes easy on the cables. Thanks to its modular design, the chain can be extended or shortened as required and be assembled and dismantled quickly.
Picture PM0911-03: igus GmbH, Cologne
The opening cross-bars can now be swung open to both sides by 115 degrees on both the inner and outer radius and no longer have to be removed completely.
Photo PM0911-04: igus GmbH, Cologne
S-shaped movements are also possible.
CONTACT:igus® GmbH
Spicher Str. 1a
D-51147 Köln
Phone+49-22 03 / 96 49-0
Fax+49-22 03 / 96 49-222
/ The terms “igus, chainflex, readycable, easychain, e.chain, e.chainsystems, energy chain, energy chain system, flizz, readychain, triflex, twisterchain, invis, drylin, iglidur, igubal, xiros, xirodur, plastics for longer life, manus, vector“ are legally protected trademarks in the Federal Republic of Germany and, where applicable, in some foreign countries.
PRESS CONTACT:
André Kluth
Head of Corporate Communications
igus GmbH
Spicher Str. 1a
D-51147 Köln
Tel. +49 (0) 22 03 / 96 49 - 611
Fax+49 (0) 22 03 / 96 49 - 631
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