Energy chains Wiki

The energy chain, also known as e-chain® is a machine component that guides and protects flexible cables and hoses. Its protection reduces downtime and increases the service life of cables and hoses.

Customers can save time and money when using igus® energy chains.
igus® energy chains are already being used in a multitude of applications around the world – from beverage dispensers to steelworks.

More than 400,000 customers worldwide from 50 branches of industry use igus® energy chains.

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Design energy chains easily

Fundamentals and calculations
Locating the fixed end in the centre of the travel is always the most cost-effective solution. How to calculate chain length.

Types of movement
From unsupported applications to circular movements to zig-zag applications.

Distribution rules
General filling rules for cables and hoses in energy chains.

Strain relief
Ideally, the cables/hoses should be strain relieved at both ends of the energy chain. They must be strain-relieved at the moving end of the energy chain at least.

Environmental influences (technical environment)
Material information: igumid material, cleanroom and ESD, dirty environments, chemically resistant.

Technical terms and definitions
Here is an overview of all abbreviations and formulae for energy chains.

Elements of an energy chain — Representation using the example of an E4Q chain link. Some energy chains deviate from this representation.

Energy chain elements

An energy chain consists of multiple interconnected chain links. The energy chain is closed off with mounting brackets on both sides. A chain link has the following elements: