Abrasion-optimised materials for cleanrooms

High abrasion resistance is crucial for machine elements in cleanrooms. In response, igus has developed the C6, an energy chain “designed to meet the highest cleanroom class”. The new chain is specially designed for longer unsupported applications on machines, and is based on the igus E6 and E6.1 cleanroom series.

“A new type of connector system, as well as the use of a specially tribologically optimised high-performance plastic, makes this chain design even quieter, lighter, more installation-friendly and virtually particle-free when in motion,” says igus.

Regarding the energy chain’s name, ‘C6’, the ‘C’ stands for its location: a cleanroom, and ‘6’ represents the number of individual parts per chain link.

New connector system

Cables and hoses housed in the new system will be guided on medium travel lengths in clean rooms found in electronics manufacturing, the semiconductor industry, medical facilities and even pharmaceutical production, as well as in packaging machines, where abrasion-resistance and smooth running is essential. igus adds that it has developed a new connector system of individual chain links, “making the e-chain light and easy to install, and at the same time strong and vibration-resistant”.

Explains Justin Leonard, director of e-chains in the UK: "We have reduced the contact area to a minimum when moving the C6, so we can ensure extremely low abrasion and a smooth run. In addition, with our knowledge of plastics, we have developed a new material specifically for all areas that come into contact with the cables. The chain is also designed to minimise friction."

The new design is said to be much lighter, saving up to 26% weight, compared to the previous E6 series.

C6 should meet highest cleanroom class

The idea for the C6 was developed in cooperation with a large electronics manufacturer and Fraunhofer IPA, a consultancy division of Germany’s technology innovation centre the Fraunhofer Institute. "We are pleased to be able to try out and develop the chain directly with the experts from industry and cleanroom research," says Leonard. Test series with the new e-chain are currently running in the in-house cleanroom laboratory in Cologne.

"The first tests show the high abrasion resistance of the chain and we are very optimistic that it will also receive cleanroom Class 1," says Leonard. "With the design of the C6, we are also prepared for future cleanroom requirements that will require even fewer particles than ISO Class 1."