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Heavy Duty Drag Chains for Long Travels and Gliding Applications
Maximum durability and efficiency in unsupported energy supply systems with igus® e-chains. Designed for dynamic applications, these chains offer long service life, withstanding up to 10 million cycles. Ideal for installations requiring high speeds, reduced noise, and low maintenance, igus® e-chains are available in various configurations, including Industry 4.0 ready options. Boost performance and reduce downtime by choosing the right e-chain® solution for your application.
White Paper:
10 Drag Chain Tips for Unsupported Applications
Maximize e-chain® performance with tips for longer service life, efficient space use, strain relief, and material selection. Ideal for high-speed, unsupported applications with low maintenance and Industry 4.0 readiness.
Types of drag chains for different applications:
Applications of Drag Chains
Drag chains are essential in industries such as manufacturing, automation, and material handling. They ensure cables and hoses are safely guided through complex movements, reducing wear and tear and minimizing maintenance costs.
FAQs About Drag Chains and Heavy-Duty Cable Carriers
A drag chain, also known as a cable carrier or energy chain, is a protective mechanism used to guide, support, and protect cables and hoses that move during machinery operation. By organizing these components, drag chains prevent tangling, wear, and damage that could result in costly downtime.
Drag chains are essential in various industrial environments, ensuring that cables or hoses are protected and guided through repetitive movement. They are commonly used in CNC machines, 3D printers, and automation equipment to prevent cable entanglement and damage, reducing the risk of malfunction and extending the service life of machinery.
Drag chains come in different materials and configurations to suit specific needs:
- Steel Drag Chains: Best for heavy-duty industrial applications where strength and heat resistance are critical.
- Plastic Drag Chains: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for cleanrooms or chemical-prone environments.
- Flexible Drag Chains: Suitable for environments requiring high flexibility, such as robotics or CNC machining.
The service life of a drag chain depends on several factors, including the material used, the operating environment, and the load it carries. igus drag chains are tested to ensure long-lasting performance, even under harsh conditions. You can determine the expected service life using our service life calculator.
To quickly find the right drag chain for your needs, use the igus product filter. You can filter products based on movement type, size, and other specifications.
The maximum travel length for drag chains can vary. With igus rol e-chains®, travels of over 1,200 meters are possible. Learn more about these extended travels with our long travel solutions.
igus plastic drag chains generally operate in a temperature range of -40°C to +130°C, with the ability to withstand short-term temperatures up to +170°C. For higher temperature requirements, consider igus solutions like the igumid HT material.
Yes, certain plastic drag chains, like those made with igumid HT material can resist chips as hot as + 850 C. making them suitable for environments like metalworking or foundries.
Yes, the autoglide system allows travels of up to 80 m without guide troughs.
Yes, all igus® e-chains® materials can be deployed in continuous use at temperatures as low as -40 °C
Drag Chain Testimonials and Case Studies
Drag chain cable carrier online tools
Contact a Drag Chain Cable Carrier Expert
Whether you're interested in end-to-end, fully assembled solutions or looking to build your own customizable project, let us assist you with a solution based on your specific application and requirements. Contact us via the form below or call us at (800) 521-2747 to discuss your project today!