Routing
many different cables in small spaces
 |
e-spool is a next generation cable management system
that is more durable than traditional cable drums |
igus
UK, the leading energy chain and cabling specialist, has launched a new
compact energy chain, e-spool,
which enables users to guide many different cables in narrow spaces and allows
them to save space thanks to its small footprint. The innovative e-spool, which won the iF product design award this year, is easy
to install and flexible, providing cables reliably in any direction for travel
up to 14m.
e-spool
is a next generation cable management system that has been designed in response
to customer demand for a solution that is more durable than traditional cable
drums. As a result, users can now benefit
from a system that provides reliable operation for a wide range of lifting
applications.
The new energy chain system
links two different igus energy chains in an ingenious way: a standard igus
e-chain from the E2/000 series is routed via a spool, and a twisterband
connects the spool with the shaft bracket, which serves as the interface to the
permanently installed cables.
 |
The innovative e-spool is easy to install and flexible,
providing cables reliably in any direction for travel
up to 14m. |
The chain is compactly wound up in
its initial position and thanks to an integrated return spring in the spool,
the desired length and tension of the energy chain is always ensured. The e-spool chain is far more flexible than
traditional cable drums, because instead of featuring sliding contacts, which
are typically found in classic cable drums, the cables for data, compressed air
and fluids can be connected without interruption and can be replaced or
modified at any time.
It is available in three different lengths (0-4m, 4-7m and 7-14m) and two inner
chain widths (80mm and 125mm), enabling many different media and diameter
cables to be housed in one drum. The twisterband TB 30 can hold cables with
diameters of up to 16mm and cables can be routed one or both sides of the spool
depending on individual customer requirements.
The e-spool is a
truly multi-dimensional solution and when three-dimensional chains such as the
igus triflex chains are used, energy supply is possible in all directions,
whether it’s horizontal, vertical or diagonal.
It is ideal where space is limited
and is suitable for many lifting applications where users are looking for
space-saving energy chains, such as lifting platforms, cherry pickers, sorting
lines, mobile cranes, platform applications, assembly or process cranes with
grippers, or lighting rigs in the theatre industry. In addition, users can save
space associated with storing the chain, as it has a smaller footprint than
traditional zig zag chains used in these applications.
As with all igus
e-chains, e-spool is reliable and the plastic energy chain is easy to install
and use. Users can simply press the
cables into the chain from the outside, without the chain links being opened
and closed.
“e-spool is a complete modular replacement for classic cable drums,” says Justin Leonard, director at igus.
“Robust and
flexible, the e-spool energy chain is more durable than cable drums and enables
power, data and media cables in one compact, straightforward system. At igus we continue to work closely with
customers developing innovative solutions and the e-spool is yet another
example of how we continue to expand our offering to meet the evolving needs of our
customers.”
To complement the
igus e-spool system, a comprehensive range of more than 950 chainflex cables is
available, either as separate parts or pre-fitted.
For more information about the e-spool, please call
igus UK directly on 01604 677240 or visit the website at: www.igus.co.uk/e-spool
About igus UK Ltd:
Based in Northampton in the UK, and with global headquarters in Cologne,
Germany, igus is the largest producer of injection moulded polymer bearings and
reinforced plastic cable carriers in the world. Product lines include
industry-leading e-chain cable carriers, chainflex continuous-flex cables,
iglidur plastic plain bearings, igubal spherical bearings, drylin linear
bearings and guide systems. The company has 26 subsidiaries across 31 countries
and employs approximately 1,800 people worldwide.
With plastic bearing experience since 1964, cable carrier experience
since 1971 and continuous-flex cable since 1989, igus provides the right
solution based on 80,000 products available from stock with between 1,500 and
2,500 new products introduction each year
