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V&L Tool Inc. in Waukesha, Wash. is a leading manufacturer of precision machined components and assemblies. V&L was one of igus’ first ReadyChain customers, purchasing its initial assembly in 1998. The company manufactures a nuclear imaging table used in hospitals to run full-body scans in which a nuclear camera detects radioactive materials ingested into the body to view deep tissue and muscle mass. This advanced medical technology is helping to save lives.

When building the nuclear imaging table, designers knew they needed an energy supply system that was flexible, strong and maintenance free. The device also required a quiet system so as not to interfere with testing and to avoid causing stress to patients. The carriage travels six feet along the base of the table.

V&L looked at a number of cable carrier manufacturers, but chose igus for its complete solution from carrier to cable and assembly. They use a System E2 micro Energy Chain for small space and high torsional rigidity. It travels 14 feet and is connected to the table base at one end, the carriage on the other and glides on itself. They have invested almost $400,000 in ReadyChain assemblies during the last six years.

Dan Leitzke, an Electrical Engineer at V&L Tool, was extremely impressed with igus.

“The service life of the ReadyChain has exceeded our expectations. It has needed virtually no maintenance, the continuous-flex cables are superb and the customer service has been phenomenal. We made the right choice when we chose igus.”

To learn more about V&L Tool, visit www.vltool.com.