November 27, 2017 - At the 2017 Motek tradeshow, igus presented a new strain relief for e-chains: the honeycomb strain relief CFU. The strain relief system is designed as a replacement for commonly used cable tie-wraps and other strain relief solutions. The older version of the strain relief required users to arrange each cable separately in the energy chain. In the igus solution, the cables and hoses are inserted into the honeycomb and then closed. This way, the outer walls of the honeycomb cavities lie gently and uniformly around the cables.
The honeycomb system can be assembled in seconds, and it is also allows new cables to be inserted or replaced by hand.
Due to the flush finish with the e-chain mounting bracket, the CFU can be used in both unsupported and gliding applications. The design allows for scaling for individual chain widths. Cables are simply inserted into the vertical rows of the CFU, the system is closed and then screwed at the top. Optional clips at the side plates connect energy chain and strain relief. With the strain relief system, the designer can schedule the chain and strain relief before they know the exact cable assignment.
This can also be changed in the later stages. The system is currently being developed for the E4.1L chain.