Durable e-chains in cutting tools for high travel speeds

• What was needed: E6 series e-chain system
• Requirements: High travel speeds and accelerations during continuous operation of the system, long service life
• Industry: Machine tool manufacturing
• Success for the customer: e-chains easily cope with high travel speeds and accelerations while guaranteeing smooth operation and the high flexibility of the machine. Due to modular design the e-chain simultaneously reduces maintenance times and costs

Grenzebach Maschinenbau GmbH is a family-owned company with 1,500 employees worldwide and more than 3,000 installed systems worldwide. When implementing a cutting machine for a customer, this Bavarian automation specialist was looking for a suitable solution for guiding the cables needed for the power supply. The cutting tool is moved across a roller conveyor along a 6 m path at speeds of 4 m/s (outward path) and 12.5 m/s (return path) and an acceleration of 30 m/s². With these demanding requirements for speed and accelerations the energy supply system had to guarantee a planned machine service life of 7 to 10 years while operating continuously.

After consulting with igus, the decision was made in favor of the E6 series e-chains, which display their strengths perfectly in this cutting tool. The e-chain is characterized by smooth operation despite high speeds. This means that it can easily keep up with the high accelerations and speeds within the plant. Despite continuous operation, it can guarantee the machine manufacturer a long service life. Another advantage: The modular design helps to replace individual elements quickly and easily, which reduces assembly time and costs when problems arise. This also allows the energy supply system to be shortened or lengthened as required.