Cable reel for energy chains proves its worth on the stage

April 13, 2016 4:36 pm

The e-spool from igus, a cable reel for energy chains, has passed all the noise tests in the igus test laboratory with flying colours. This means it has distinguished itself as an ideal solution for applications in noise-sensitive areas, such as in stage engineering. With the space-saving e-spool, energy, media or fibre optic data cables can be run together in a single system, as it requires no slip ring.
The Cologne-based motion plastics specialist igus operates the largest testing laboratory in the industry with a floor area of 2,750 square metres, where all products have to pass various tests. There, more than 3,000 basic and user-specific tests are performed annually for energy chain systems alone in 180 test facilities under real conditions. These include tests at various temperatures and pressures, or even in contact with chemical substances. Tests are, for example, also conducted in the special noise chamber. It was here that the e-spool from igus was subjected to an intensive test for its noise emissions during operation. e-spool is an alternative to conventional cable reels for very tight radii and installation spaces. In the tests, the cable-friendly energy, data and media supply system of the latest generation has been proved extremely quiet. In particular the absence of slip rings minimises the noise development significantly in this special reel. An e-spool equipped with ‘anti-vibration matting was able to reach levels below 46dB (A) in these tests.
The tests in the igus test lab also proved the performance of the e-spool with respect to its service life. In addition to the noise emissions, this special insulated option was tested for compliance with the service life expectancy for a customer. This result was amazing: at full extension to twelve metres, the integrated return spring held the required tension of the pull-out e-chain at all times, and a maximum rotational movement of the used igus twisterband the e-spool has surpassed the required 24,000 double strokes by far, completely trouble-free. The twisterband works as the rotating link through which the cables are routed smoothly for the chain and which allows the rotation of the reel. igus offers e-spools with one or two twisterbands, depending on the number of cables to be routed. The achievable life is dependent on the application and execution of up to about one million movements. For the model with spring reel, the spring must be replaced after 75,000 double strokes. In the e-spool power with motor drive, that is not necessary.
Suitable for noise-sensitive applicationsThe latest test results prove that the e-spool is ideal for use in noise-sensitive applications such as stage installations. Finally, moving stage elements must be moved as smoothly and quietly as possible, at the same time the energy supply system needs to be as compact as possible in order to manage with the limited space. Similarly, factories or logistics centres, where noise emission limits are increasingly becoming a norm, are suitable areas of its application. But there are even more features such as the strain relief of the cables, the variable guiding in all directions, as well as halogen-free components support the use of an e-spool. The latter is particularly important in order to achieve the required fire safety standards. For this purpose, igus offers the appropriate chainflex cables with TPE outer jacket for moving applications.
The e-spool energy supply system is available in standard catalogue sizes of four to 14 metres. For special projects which are either particularly compact or for very long extension lengths up to 50 metres, igus also offers customised special solutions. All components together according to customer requirements with completely pre-assembled cables and optional installation.