Durable energy chains in cutting tools for high travel speeds

• What was needed: energy chain system E6
• Requirements: high travelling speeds and accelerations with continuous operation of the system, long service life
• Industry: Machine tool manufacturing
• Success for the customer: energy chain handles high travelling speeds and accelerations effortlessly and at the same time guarantees smooth running, high flexibility of the machine due to modular design reduces maintenance times and costs at the same time

With 1,500 employees worldwide and more than 3,000 systems installed worldwide, Grenzebach Maschinenbau GmbH is a family business that operates internationally. When realising a cutting machine for a customer, the Bavarian automation specialist was looking for a suitable solution for the guidance of cables for the energy supply. The cutting tool, which is moved across a roller conveyor, travels a distance of 6 metres at speeds of 4m/s (outward path) and 12.5m/s (return path) and an acceleration of 30m/s². Under the given speeds and accelerations, the energy supply had to guarantee a planned machine service life of 7 to 10 years; and that with a high workload under continuous operation.

Following consultations with igus®, the decision was made in favour of the energy chain E6, which can play to its strengths perfectly with this cutting tool. The chain is characterised by smooth running at high speed. This means it can easily keep up with the high accelerations and speeds within the system. And despite continuous operation, it can guarantee the machine manufacturer the high service life required. Another advantage: the modular design helps to replace individual elements quickly and easily, which reduces assembly time and costs should problems arise. This means that the energy supply system can also be shortened or extended as required.