Low-vibration E4Q Series e-chains® in DMF 200|8 Milling Machines

• What was needed: E4Q series e‑chain®
• Requirements: Smooth, vibration free movement for cable and hose guidance.
• Industry: Machine tool construction
• Success for the customer: The E4Q series e‑chain® ensured low-vibration guidance of cables and hoses. This cable carrier is also characterized by its low weight and quick assembly as the crossbars can be opened without requiring tools.

DMG MORI develops and produces five-axis milling machines for the automotive and aerospace industries, among others. One of the company's latest developments is the DMF 200|8, a travelling column machine.

The machine is designed to produce workpieces with highly complex geometries, such as structural components for aircrafts. Operating at milling speeds of up to 20,000 rpm, it delivers exceptional accuracy and micrometer-level precision.

At these performance levels, reducing and eliminating vibration becomes critical: even minor oscillations in the cable and hose guidance system can leave visible wave patterns on the workpiece surface.

To ensure the smooth, low-vibration guidance of cables and hoses in DMF 200|8 milling machines, DMG MORI opted for the E4Q series e-chain® from igus®. These E4Q e-chains guides cables and hoses for energy, hydraulics, pneumatics and lubrication along the X-axis (2,000 mm), the Y-axis (800 mm) and the Z-axis (850 mm).

Compared to its predecessor, the series E4.1, the weight of the e-chain® E4Q has been reduced by 10 percent. The molded contours and integrated starting brakes in the stop-dog system of the chain links reduce noise and vibrations and ensure smooth starting and braking of the energy supply. The E4Q series e-chains are not only quiet and low-vibration, but also durable and easy to maintain. DMG MORI also utilized the readychain® service from igus®. With this service, the e-chain comes pre-assembled with highly flexible chainflex® cables and hoses, as well as dividers and shelves to create a structured interior separation. This design prevents contact between moving components and minimizes premature wear. The system can also be easily filled with new cables for maintenance purposes, as its crossbars can be opened without tools.