drive-chain

[Design study] drive-chain 2.0

Extreme dynamics and very long travel distances with a wear-free drive

The world's first energy chain system with its own drive, now almost wear-free with a linear motor. For very long travel distances (1,000m and more) with extreme dynamics and long operating times. For next-generation ASCs (automated stacking cranes). The lower mass allows higher acceleration and speed, and the drive-chain 2.0 also offers a much longer service life than do standard energy chain systems.

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Tech up

Virtually wear-free linear drive for even less friction over very long travel distances
Drive force does not have to come from the powered system (e.g. crane), because the e-chain system has own drive
Two drive concepts (linear drive & friction wheel drive)
Significantly higher operation times because there is almost no stress caused push/pull force
For ASC (Automated Stacking Cranes) next generation cranes
Higher acceleration & speed possible due to lower mass

Cost down

Significantly longer service life compared to standard energy chain systems
Shorter cable lengths, due to central feed, resulting in lower cable costs when purchasing

Proof

Test setup in the igus laboratory

Sustainability

4 - 6t less moving mass on the crane, thus less energy consumption
igus® has been an investor in Mura Technology from the very beginning and is advancing chemical recycling. From plastic waste to crude oil in 20 minutes.

Before

Version with motor cable drum. Approximately four to six tons of weight, which must be carried permanently and costs drive force.

After

Version with igus drive-chain. e-chain system with its own drive force. Higher speeds and longer travels possible.

Other systems for long travels

Discover different energy chain systems for long travels that can be moved up to 1,000 metres and more, at a speed of 10m/s and a fill weight of 50kg/m.

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Energy chain systems for cranes

Energy chain systems and flexible cables are used in cranes. They have proven themselves for years in over 10,000 igus® energy chain solutions in ports with their corrosion-free, maintenance-free materials offering a long service life.

Further information

Free white paper

Triple E-class container ships and the requirements of energy supply for STS cranes

The challenge: cranes for Triple E-class container ships
Crane availability and dependability requirements
Comparison of energy and signal supply systems (festoons, busbar systems and energy chains)
Technological outlook: rol e-chains

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Successful application stories in the crane industry

Fifty percent more storage space

An exceptionally space-saving solution has been developed for the energy supply system of a fully automatic crane system, which has proven itself under the highest loads and in continuous operation - and which today creates 50 percent more storage space.

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Reliable despite continuous operation

A roller energy chain is in operation at one of the largest bulk handling ports in Western Europe. On the massive ship-to-shore crane, it operates without incident despite continuous operation and over 100 metres of travel.

Learn more about this application

... and other success stories

Discover how our energy chains and chainflex cables are used in the crane industry for different requirements in this selection of application examples sorted by crane type.

Discover further success stories