Plastic guide channel protects cables with smallest bending radii and saves costs

A new small rotary module from Igus for robots, handling and camera systems can save users up to 73% cost. It’s lightweight, compact and made entirely of plastic.

The Polymer Rotation Module (PRM) from Igus comprises a polymer energy chain and a low-friction plastic guide channel especially for rotational movements of cables and hoses. Users can increase the service life of their machines and cable systems and save up to 73% in purchasing costs compared to a comparable steel guide channel. The new PRM e-chain system expands Igus’s range of complete sets that can be ordered directly online.

For cameras, robots or handling systems with rotary movements to be able to carry out their work 24/7, the cables must be well protected. In addition to slip rings, rotary energy guides are often used to move cables and hoses safely when rotating through 360 degrees. “In our previous rotary modules, the chain always lay down in a steel channel,” says Justin Leonard e-chain director at Igus UK. “The channel or trough was often complex and costly, which was not attractive for users of smaller applications in particular.”

Igus has now developed an e-channel especially for compact rotary movements made of the company’s special wear-resistant and durable high-performance plastic. The result is a system that is up to 73% more cost-effective that is also up to 85% lighter than a steel channel. An additional advantage is that the plastic trough is corrosion-proof. In Igus’s test laboratory, the complete plastic system demonstrated long service-life, withstanding over three million double strokes per test.

The Igus rotary control guides perform particularly well against slip rings because the cables run in a defined and protected movement. In addition, several different media can be guided together. The chain can be modified at any time and cables can be quickly replaced if maintenance is needed.

The new PRM rotary energy supply system consisting of an energy chain, a split plastic guide channel and strain relief, is available from 200mm to 500mm outer diameter directly from the Igus online shop as a complete set. Customers can also purchase ready-made kits for linear travel distances of 8 to 200 metres. These consist of a robust E4.1 series energy chain, the corresponding attachment brackets, strain reliefs, dividers, a guide channel with or without gliding rail, matching installation sets and an Igus screwdriver. If the energy chain is no longer in use due to the service life of the machine and system, Igus will take back the chains and recycle them; in return, the user receives a credit note based on the net weight.