Low-vibration E4Q-series energy chains in DMF 200|8 milling machines

DMG MORI develops and produces five-axis milling machines for the automotive and aerospace industries, among others. One of the company's latest developments is the DMF 200|8, a travelling column machine. The machine can be used to machine workpieces with highly complex geometries, such as structural components for aeroplanes. The machine impresses with milling speeds of up to 20,000 revolutions per minute and maximum accuracy and precision in the micrometre range. One of the challenges here is to guide the cable and hose in such a way that no vibrations occur. This is because even slight vibrations can cause waves to form on the surface of the workpiece.

To ensure that cables and hoses are guided safely and with low vibration in DMF 200|8 milling machines, DMG MORI has opted for the E4Q energy chain series from igus®, a new energy chain that enables long unsupported travel paths in machine tools all over the world. The e-chain® E4Q guides cables and hoses for energy, hydraulics, pneumatics and lubrication along the X-axis (2,000 mm), the Y-axis (800 mm) and the Z-axis (850 mm). Compared to its predecessor series E4.1, the weight of the e-chain® E4Q has been reduced by 10 per cent. The moulded contours and integrated starting brakes in the stop-dog system of the chain links reduce noise and vibrations and ensure smooth starting and braking of the energy supply. The E4Q series energy chains are not only quiet and low-vibration, but also durable and easy to maintain. DMG MORI also utilised the readychain® service from igus®. The experts at igus® fill the energy supply with the highly flexible cable and hose and use dividers and shelves to create an interior separation that ensures that the load does not rub against each other during movement and wear prematurely. The energy chain can also be easily filled with new cables for maintenance purposes, as it has crossbars that can be opened without tools.