igus C-Chain continually rotating energy chain

igus has developed the first continually rotating energy chain - a complete ready-to-install module that eliminates ‘wasted run’ or non-productive return run movements.

Without superfluous start and return runs, the next position can now be directly approached in a continual movement, where loading and unloading, adhesion, drilling and other tasks can then take place.

The chains are lightweight and reliable, with speeds of up to 8 m/s allowing extremely fast machine cycle times to be realised.

The C-Chain is made up of a low-friction plastic energy chain with rotary table guidance connections. This moves easily and without vibration, with a supported upper run where necessary. The system provides sufficient filling space for a servo/motor cable, a control, bus or fibre-optic cable and fluids.

The chain moves lightly and with low wear in the guide housing to the first carriage station. There, it feeds an all-round circular line, which all the carriages are fixed to.

Each carriage can be addressed individually using modern electronics and bus technology. It receives the respective signals to enable it to work as required, through a pneumatic valve, electric motor or sensors.

Each carriage can be triggered individually and can perform its tasks immediately at a predefined position.

Numerous different carriages can be connected to the continuously rotating chain. These can supply rotating grippers, suction cups or electromagnets, for example, which can pick up work pieces, hold them, adjust them and set them down again.