igus has introduced the CF33.UL, the world’s first motor cable designed for energy chains and cable trays, boasting UL approval and an impressive four-year functional guarantee within the energy chain. This innovative cable permits seamless installation from the energy chain to the cable tray without the need for a plug connection in between. Adding to the chainflex range, the CF33.UL also brings a shielded PVC motor cable into the spotlight.
igus GmbH, based in Cologne, Germany, is one of the global leader in developing and producing motion plastics. Specializing in lubrication-free, high-performance polymers, igus enhances technology and reduces costs in various applications. As one of the market leaders in energy supplies, flexible cables, plain and linear bearings, and lead screw technology, igus operates in 31 countries with a global workforce of 4,600. In 2022, the family-run company achieved a turnover of €1.15 billion.
With one of the largest test laboratories in the industry, igus continually innovates, providing enhanced security for users. Offering a vast stock of 234,000 articles, igus facilitates online service life calculations. Notably, igus has expanded through internal startups in areas like ball bearings, robot drives, 3D printing, Lean Robotics with the RBTX platform, and “smart plastics” for Industry 4.0. Committed to environmental initiatives, igus actively engages in recycling e-chains through the “chainge” program and participates in ventures converting plastic waste into oil.
While cables may not be the most thrilling products, their indispensable role in supplying electricity and data is undeniable. A malfunctioning cable can lead to substantial damage, particularly in production settings. Cables must withstand diverse challenges such as heat, cold, high dynamics, UV radiation, and even flames. For hassle-free export to the USA and Canada, test certificates from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) are mandatory.
Addressing these requirements, igus has innovated the CF33.UL motor cable explicitly tailored for energy chains and cable trays, bearing the coveted UL listing (“Flexible Motor Supply Cable according to UL 2277”). Typically, UL-listed cables are designated for fixed installation or occasional movement, making UL approval for continuously moving energy chain cables a groundbreaking development.
Rainer Rössel, Vice President and Head of the chainflex Cables Business Unit at igus, elaborates on the significance of the new motor cable, stating, “With the new motor cable, we are offering our customers a cable type that is suitable for both chains and cable trays. A plug connection is no longer necessary.” This innovative approach not only streamlines the cable installation process but also eliminates the need for duplicate cable stocks for chains and fixed installations, providing a cost-effective solution.
igus goes beyond the conventional by offering a service life guarantee for the new motor cable. Mr Rössel emphasizes their commitment to customer satisfaction, stating, “We also rely on the service life guarantee for our new motor cable. We provide our customers with tested and certified safety.” In its expansive 3,800-square-meter laboratory, igus rigorously tests its cables, drawing on 30 years of experience in the realm of moving cables. The company has recently extended the guarantee for the new motor cable to an impressive four years or ten million double strokes.
Leveraging data from the laboratory, igus enhances its online tools, including the chainflex service life calculator. This tool empowers customers to assess the durability of cables in their applications, aligning with igus’ commitment to sustainability. The rationale is clear – premature cable replacement or breakage entails a high CO2 impact, considering the production and transportation of substitutes. By optimizing cable lifespan, igus aids customers in bolstering the sustainability of their applications, aligning with contemporary environmental considerations.