New sizes added to cable guiding system

High rotation speeds and a small installation space mean that energy cables, data cables and hoses can be subjected to a great deal of stress. Two new sizes have been added to a solution that guides and rotates cables and hoses at high speeds safely and without interruption.

The new sizes of twisterband HD from igus are specifically intended for use in small installation spaces. The lightweight energy chain rotates around its own axis and is said to be stable, easy to fill and able to cope with rotating speeds of up to 180° a second.

The energy supply series is currently used in woodworking machines as well as in workpiece positioners in the automotive industry. The system allows for rotary movements up to 7 000° on the horizontal plane and 3 000° on the vertical plane in small spaces, at speeds of up to 180° a second. Slip rings can be replaced in the case of a limited rotation angle. Different media lines as well as bus cables or fluids can be guided with one system, without interruption. The inner compact heights of the new sizes are 11 mm and 18 mm, which are seen as optimal for very small installation spaces such as in rotary tables or on robots.

The twisterband HD is slim, light and fits closely around its own axis of rotation. The energy chain consists of individual chain links that can be connected to each other by means of a pin-and-hook principle. This results in a defined bend radius and simultaneously ensures greater stability. The energy supply solution is made of maintenance-free tribo-polymers into which a fibreglass-reinforced material has been worked, resulting in a longer service life.

Owing to its modular structure, the energy supply system can be lengthened or shortened as required. The cables can be inserted in the guidance system and can be replaced or extended at any time, which the company states is a further advantage over slip rings. The series is available in four different sizes with an outer diameter of 140 mm to 500 mm.