Energy supply for heavy-duty lathes: durable despite chips and dirt

Profile

• What was needed: energy chain from the triflex TRC series that could be moved in three dimensions, closed e-chains from the R2 series, chainflex cables
• Requirements: durable energy supply system that withstands chips and dirt, good availability
• Industry: machine tools
• Success for the customer: closed energy chains that move along linear and three-dimensional axes, are easy to install and offer good availability protect the cables from chips and dirt; the internal cables from the chainflex product range, specifically developed for dynamic applications, also ensure reliable operation and thus reduce downtimes.

The TUR 3MN heavy-duty lathe from Polish company FAT HACO makes it possible to machine workpieces that are up to 1,600mm long and weigh up to 15,000kg. The headstock of the lathe is of a modern, compact design. The high-performance spindle offers maximum accuracy and rigidity with heavy loads and ensures an outstanding surface quality of the machined workpieces.

FAT HACO was looking for a suitable solution to safely move the cables and hoses for the machine's power and data transmission. It had to withstand the chips and dirt generated during the lathe's operation. At the same time, the manufacturer needed components that could guarantee particularly high availability and a long service life.

In addition to energy chains from the triflex TRC series that move in three dimensions, closed e-chains from the R2 series are now used to protect the internal cables from chips and dirt. The lids are easy to open and close with a screwdriver. This easy assembly and the availability and durability of the e-chains were the deciding factors for FAT HACO in favour of energy chain systems from igus.

In the meantime, all metal chains have been replaced by plastic energy chains from igus. Inside the energy chains, the machine tool manufacturer uses chainflex cables. They are specially designed for moving applications in e-chains and withstand the continuous movements. igus even guarantees this with a 4-year guarantee on all chainflex cables.