Called triflex RSE, the new system prevents looping of the energy chain as it moves, averting tube blockages from occurring that may ultimately lead to unplanned and costly machine downtime.
“Industrial robots no longer just require electrical and pneumatic lines, but often have feed hoses for bolts, rivets or screws,” said Justin Leonard, director, igus. “When robotic arms are moving at high speeds, tight bends or hanging loops can sometimes cause problems; if the energy chain falls below the minimum permissible bending radius of the supply hoses, the worst-case scenario is that a rivet or screw may get stuck, which then leads to a plant standstill.”
Through its smooth, linear travel, the triflex RSE retraction system requires no spring rods or deflecting rollers. The system is based on the maintenance-free drylin linear guide, which transports the chain for travels of up to 600mm – heavy-duty elastic bands pull the extended chain back automatically to prevent loops forming.
The retraction system is designed for closed or openable triflex R energy chain models TRC, TRE and TRCF, available in a range of sizes measuring from 60 to 125mm in diameter. They are locked by means of a connecting element and a linear slide, which, in turn, can be connected by adjustable fastening plates to integrate with a variety of robot types.
“Because the triflex RSE enables the energy chain to connect directly to the robot, no unnecessary loops are needed, which reduces chain length,” added Leonard. “For this reason, triflex RSE is not only space-saving and light, but also a cost-effective solution.”