CAT7 cable for energy chains: Equipped with igus for the movement of the future

To ensure high data security in fast energy chains, the CAT7 cable CFBUS.052 features braid shields, pair shields, and an overall braid shield with 90 percent optical coverage. (Source: igus GmbH)

The Cologne-based igus GmbH has qualified its chainflex CFBUS.052 bus cable according to the CAT7 standard. As the world's first CAT7 cable for use in energy chains, it enables reliable data transmission even under high mechanical demands. At the SPS IPC Drives automation fair, igus will showcase the cable, which has already reliably completed 40 million bends in the igus test laboratory, in Hall 4, Stand 250.

Ethernet cables for energy chains are an essential part of the chainflex cable program, which includes over 1,040 types of cables. In 1999, igus introduced the first chainflex Ethernet CAT5 cable specifically developed and tested for energy chains; four years later, the CAT6 cable followed. Today, the chainflex Ethernet cable program includes over 17 different mechanical constructions. With the world's first CAT7 cable for continuous movement in energy chains, igus continues this path and already offers users the standard of tomorrow today.

Special design protects during continuous movement

The CAT7 cable CFBUS.052 features braid shields, pair shields, and a overall braid shield with 90 percent optical coverage to significantly enhance data security, ensuring functionality even after millions of bending cycles in the energy chain. The special conductor/stranding design makes this CFBUS cable highly bend-resistant. A shield braid manufactured with an optimized braid angle protects both the overall shield from mechanical breaks and the electromagnetic compatibility of the cable. The shielded pairs are twisted with an optimized lay length to meet high mechanical demands while also fulfilling electrical requirements for data transmission.

Certified for a wide range of applications

Like all highly abrasion-resistant TPE CFBUS types, this CAT7 cable is flame-retardant. Additionally, it is UL/CSA, EAC, and CTP certified and DESINA compliant. The new cable can also be used in cleanrooms and has DNV-GL approval for energy chain applications in offshore environments. It has already been extensively tested at igus' largest industry test laboratory, covering 1,750 square meters, for its lifespan in energy chain applications; it has achieved at least 40 million bends. Another result of these extensive tests is that users can calculate the lifespan of the desired cable at any time using the chainflex online configurator, based on input parameters such as travel distance, bending radius, and speed.