Rotary motion cable carriers

1. Rotary motion with twisterchain

Circular movements can be achieved using a few different solutions from the igus® energy chain cable carrier range. The twisterchain product line offers the biggest selection for rotary movements. twisterchain solutions are particularly recommended for space-restricted applications, such as articulated robots, revolving tables, etc.

2. Rotary motion with standard energy chains

The video opposite shows an RBR (reverse bend radius) application that was solved using standard energy chain cable carriers. Such solutions are possible if a great deal of space is available and if the angles of rotation are limited to a maximum of 450°. All igus® energy chains, Energy Tubes and chainflex® continuous-flex cables are appropriate for this kind of application.

3. Rotary motion with RBR

An RBR (reverse bending radius) is when the energy chain can travel in two directions. Each igus® energy chain can incorporate RBR designs, with the exception of certain radii for Energy Tubes R117 to R98 and for Series 07, 09, 14, 15, and 17. The RBR does not necessarily need to be identical to the normal bending radius of an energy chain. Part No. 280-15-100/425-0 describes a Series 280 energy chain cable carrier with an inner width of 5.91 inches (150 mm), standard bending radius of 3.94 inches (100 mm) and RBR of 16.73 inches (425 mm). Most rotary motions can be achieved with the RBR option. Angles of rotation up to 540° are possible. Below is an example of rotary motion using an RBR energy chain. Please consult igus® for your particular application.

Options 2. and 3. for rotary movements require less installation height. The energy chain cable carriers glide mostly on surfaces made from polymer, stainless steel or steel and are guided through channels into a rotary movement. Read about side-mounted applications for additional design tips. Bending radii, circular radii and e-chain® widths are variable with this product line.

Rotary motion with RBR, just short of 20 ft. The inner ring rotates.

energy chain cable carriers with RBR are available as standard for the complete triflex® range. We also offer a series of standard energy chains equipped with RBR. For all other types, RBR means a special manufacturing run, which we are more than willing to offer you as an option.

• Technical data rotary motion:
• max. angle of rotation = 540° (larger angles possible)
• v max. = 33 ft/s
• a max. = 66 ft/s2