Flow International, a leading supplier of custom designed waterjet machine tools and robotic gantry systems for a variety of industries ranging from aerospace to automotive out of Kent, Wash., has been using igus® Energy Chain Systems® to meet their cable carrier needs for many years.

The company had always performed the integration of cable, carrier and accessories itself. Last year, they looked to igus to deliver a reliable, cost-effective, end-to-end harnessing package, including Energy Chains® and Chainflex® continuous-flex cables. With igus ReadyChain, Flow International lowered the cost of their complete Energy Chain Systems and reduced manufacturing time by 15 percent.

Flow International installs hundreds of their Waterjet Machining Center™ (WMC) systems that require multiple igus ReadyChain systems. The Energy Chain Systems are not limited to servo power and feedback cables, but include air lines, lubrication lines and the garnet delivery system, making for a complete machine assembly unit. The WMC maximizes cutting productivity by providing the highest cutting pressure and lowest operating cost of any waterjet system in the world. The company also uses igus ReadyChain systems on the Integrated Flying Bridge (IFB), which offers all the advantages of abrasive jet cutting.

Bob Lafountain, Engineering Manager at Flow International, Jeffersonville Division explained why his company chose ReadyChain.

“At Flow International, we provide top-quality waterjet cutting solutions to our customers. We demand that same level of quality from our suppliers. Igus ReadyChain systems are a high-caliber, worry-free solution that enables us to save money and enjoy a better lead time.”

To learn more about Flow International, visit www.flowcorp.com.