The hybrid energy chain YE is the best mix of lightweight plastic and tough steel that can easily handle high unsupported travels. It was developed to meet the requirements of construction machinery and lifting equipment. The requirement was to implement the maximum possible unsupported length with compact dimensions and the lowest possible weight. However, steel energy chains have the disadvantages of high assembly costs and weight. The YE system combines the higher strength of steel elements with the low weight and flexibility of plastic components. No screws, rivets or bolts are used which can become loose under vibration.
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Hybrid energy chain YE - strong, shake-proof and compact
Tech up
2 Than a comparable plastic e-chain
- Almost 50% less weight 1
- 50% longer unsupported length 2
- High tensile strength
- No screws, rivets or bolts that can become loose
under vibration - Tough: steel mounting brackets with attachment options from any side
- Smooth operation due to
plastic pin connections - Wide range of interior separation elements
2 Than a comparable plastic e-chain
Cost down
- Easy installation - plastic outer links
with flange for easy assembly of
e-chain links - Available as ready-to-install readychain system with cables,
hoses and hydraulic components
Proof
- Test: Tested in the igus lab: 87.5% longer unsupported length FLG with a 2kg/m fill weight. Compared to a similar igus plastic e-chain.
Sustainability
- 30% less energy consumption in production compared to a similar steel chain
- Have your energy chains processed as part of the igus "chainge recycling programme" no matter which manufacturer they came from
- igus supports the circular economy of plastics and is investing in chemical recycling
e-chain® with crossbars every 2nd link, openable from both sides
Series YE.42
Inner height hi: 42mm
Inner widths Bi: 50 - 400mm
Bend radii R: 100mm
Pitch: 67mm
Series YE.56
Inner height hi: 56mm
Inner widths Bi: 50mm to 600mm
Bend radii R: 150mm
Pitch: 91mm
Enquiries
Series YE.108
Inner height hi: 108mm
Bend radii R: 250mm
Pitch: 143mm Enquiries
Comparison test: Unsupported length of the YE.42 and E4.42 series
Test: Unsupported length of the YE.42 series
In a comparison test in its test laboratory, which is the largest in the industry, igus compared the YE.42 and E4.42 series with each other. The two series were evaluated with regard to their unsupported length (with straight upper run) with a 2kg/m fill weight.
Result: With a fill weight of 2kg/m, the YE.42 series can travel unsupported for a distance of up to 5.25 m but the E4.42 can only achieve 2.8 m. This corresponds to an 87.5% longer unsupported length (with straight upper run) with a 2kg/m fill weight for the YE.42 series compared to the E4.42 series.
Why plastic-steel hybrid energy chains?
Standard steel energy chains in access platforms vs. igus YE hybrid energy chains
Standard steel energy chains
Frequently observed problems with pure steel energy supply systems:
- Corrosion at the joints, resulting in stiffness of the entire energy supply
- Deformation of the crossbars leading to seizure/twisting of the energy chain. Sharp edges can also damage the cables and hoses
- Screws, bolts and circlips can be lost over time and make the whole system unstable
- Heavy, because of the metal energy supply system
- Chain links of steel chains are non-openable and cannot be partially replaced
igus YE plastic-steel hybrid energy chains
The problem solution:
- Plastic-metal joints prevent seizure of the e-chain® links through corrosion
- Plastic crossbars do not permanently deform. In addition, they can be replaced individually in the event of a defect. Rounded crossbars protect the cables and hoses
- No screws or rivets connecting the e-chains®
- Up to 50% lighter hybrid e-chain®
- e-chains® links are openable as required. If required, cables can be added or removed. igus® chainflex® cables for every application: whether high UV resistance or high/low temperatures. 36 months guarantee on all cables
Plastic outer links - high tensile force absorption using plastic bolts. Plastic outer links provide 50% less weight, quick installation and smooth running
Steel inner plates absorb the force of the fixed stop-dogs of the plastic outer plates and increase stability by 50%
Strong and vibration-resistant - for heavy loads with compact dimensions and low weight. The advantage for access platforms is that each saved gram increases the potential payload
Variable width: crossbars from the proven E4 modular system. Available from 50mm - 400mm inner width. Crossbars openable and removable along the inner and outer radius.
Standard interior separation from the proven E4 modular system available from stock
Tough steel mounting brackets with attachment options from any side
1. In the case of a 0° rotation: 2 metres with 10kg/m fill weight
2. In the case of a 60° rotation: 6 metres with 4kg/m fill weight
3. In the case of a 75° rotation: 7 metres with 4kg/m fill weight
All important to telescopic work platforms and cherry pickers
See for yourself the quality of our products. The sample box contains a selection of igus solutions for use in telescopic extensions and inclined axes.
