igus is launching the chainflex M range of cables for cable carrier (energy chain) applications that do not require high cycle rates, offering machine builders and system integrators a significant cost saving. With a guaranteed service life of one million double strokes, the new chainflex M range is cost-effective for applications where conventional igus chainflex cables might be considered over-engineered. Aside from the service, life, the chainflex M cables have very similar performance characteristics to those of chainflex cables, such as the minimum bend radius.
Justin Leonard, a director at igus, says: "Our current range of chainflex cables is guaranteed for 5 million double strokes in constantly moving energy chain applications, even with high speeds, accelerations and demanding environmental conditions. Our new chainflex M range is designed for less demanding applications where reliability is still important but the required cycle life is much lower."
Typical applications for the chainflex M range are in theatres, tools and jigs, packaging machines and some machine tools. Covering all types of cables from control, motor, servo and measuring cables, through to data and bus cables, the chainflex M range is also UL/CSA certified. Furthermore, chainflex M cables have undergone the same demanding in-house tests as standard chainflex cables for resistance to wear and chemicals, as well as flexing performance in energy chains (e-chains).
Leonard adds: "All cable families in the chainflex M range cost 20-30 per cent less than the standard chainflex ranges we currently offer. Made from innovative iguPUR (a new highly oil- and bend-resistant PUR material) or PVC, chainflex M cables are guaranteed to last one million cycles of service life, which is unique at this price point."
With no cutting charges and no minimum order quantities, the new chainflex M provides a cost-efficient option for energy chain applications that do not require very high cycle rates. For more information about chainflex M cables, go to www.igus.co.uk/chainflexm.