e-chain C6: New design and wear-optimized materials for the highest class cleanrooms

The new cleanroom chain C6 from igus is characterized by its lightweight design and high abrasion resistance. (Source: igus GmbH)

A high wear resistance is crucial for machine elements in cleanrooms. igus has now developed an energy chain with the C6 that is intended to meet the highest cleanroom class. The new chain is specifically designed for longer cantilever applications on machines and systems and is based on igus's successful E6 and E6.1 cleanroom series. A novel connector system and a specially tribologically optimized high-performance plastic make igus's design study even quieter, easier to assemble, and almost free of particles in motion.

igus has developed a new energy chain under the abbreviation "C6". Here, "C" stands for its area of use: the Clean Room – in German: Reinraum – and "6" for the number of individual parts per chain link. The new energy guide has been developed by igus based on its successful and globally used E6 and E6.1 energy chain series and has now been further optimized as a study. With the new energy guide, cables and hoses can be guided abrasion-resistant and quietly even over medium travel distances in cleanrooms such as electronics manufacturing, the semiconductor industry, packaging machines, medical technology, or pharmaceutical production. For this, igus relies on a novel connector system for the individual chain links, which makes the chain easy to assemble, lightweight, yet stable and vibration-dampening. "We have minimized the contact surface during movement of the C6 to ensure extremely low wear and quiet operation," explains Jörg Ottersbach, Business Unit Manager e-chains at igus GmbH. "Additionally, we have developed a new material specifically for all contact points with the cables, utilizing our knowledge of plastics for movement. It further reduces friction." The new design saves 74 percent weight compared to the previous series.

C6 is designed to meet the highest cleanroom standards

The idea for C6 was developed in collaboration with a major electronics manufacturer and the Fraunhofer IPA. "We are excited to test the chain directly with industry experts and cleanroom researchers to thoroughly evaluate and further develop it," says Andreas Hermey, Development Manager of igus energy chains. Testing of the new e-chain is currently underway in the company's own cleanroom laboratory in Cologne. "The initial tests demonstrate the chain's high wear resistance, so we are very optimistic that it will also meet Class 1 cleanroom standards," Hermey states. "With the design of the C6, we are also prepared for future cleanroom requirements that will specify even fewer particles than ISO Class 1."