Secure data transfer for mobile applications in Industry 4.0

With the world's first CAT7 Ethernet cable for movement in energy chains, igus ensures secure data transfer in the factory of the future. (Source: igus GmbH)

Since igus operates the industry's largest laboratory for continuously moving cables with 1,750 square meters, igus can provide precise information about application possibilities and lifespan. (Source: igus GmbH)

With the chainflex fiber optic cable CFLG.LB.PUR, igus presents a special fiber optic cable for continuous use in the offshore industry. (Source: igus GmbH)

In the factory of tomorrow, highly dynamic machines communicate continuously in real-time. Fast and secure energy and data transmission are crucial here. At the Hannover Messe, igus presents its particularly versatile and future-proof cable types for use in the Smart Factory to industry professionals. And with the promise "3 years warranty from the first meter".

For the vision of the factory of the future to work, real-time communication across all levels must be guaranteed. To enable all stations to exchange data with each other, increasingly more Ethernet cables are being used in factories. And not only at fixed locations, but also in specially moving systems. For this purpose, igus offers 23 different types of copper-based Ethernet cables, all exclusively designed for the industrial continuously moving range, but mechanically constructed to meet the most diverse requirements.

CAT7 Ethernet technology for continuous movement

igus showcases its new CAT7 cable CFBUS.052 at the Hannover trade fair. To significantly increase data security, it features braid shields, pair shields, and a braid overall shield with 90 percent optical coverage, 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," explains Rainer Rösell, Head of the Chainflex Cable Division at igus. "The shielded pairs are stranded with an optimized pitch so that they meet high mechanical requirements while also fulfilling electrical requirements for data transmission."
Like all highly abrasion-resistant TPE CFBUS types, this CAT7 cable is flame-retardant. Furthermore, it is UL/CSA, EAC, and CTP certified and DESINA compliant. The new cable is also suitable for use in cleanrooms.

Communicate interference-free in high-stress applications using fiber optic cables (LWL)

Due to their electrical noise immunity and significantly higher data capacity, data transmission via fiber optics (LWL) is particularly interesting in electrically and mechanically critical areas in Industry 4.0. The program of fiber optic cables, which have also been specially developed for continuous movement, covers all areas of mechanical requirements. For example, igus offers the CFLG.2EC series as an inexpensive fiber optic cable, specifically developed for indoor use in handling or woodworking machines, enabling fail-safe communication in three-dimensional space with CFROBOT5. Additionally, igus presents a special fiber optic cable series for continuous use in offshore and shipbuilding applications with the chainflex CFLG.LB.PUR. It is available with 2, 4, or 6 fiber optic strands or with 2 fiber optic strands and 2 power supply cores. The stranded multimode or single-mode fibers are designed as particularly bend-resistant types as subcables, which can be easily and cost-effectively terminated with connectors without elaborate splitters. The high-strength aramid (Kevlar) braid over the entire stranding prevents damage even under high tensile forces that can occur in hanging applications. The flame-retardant, specially coordinated and pressure-extruded PUR outer jacket additionally protects against external mechanical damage. Like the CAT7 cable, the new fiber optic cable family, with DNV GL offshore approval, offers the possibility to reliably transmit data on offshore platforms and ships.

For all cables, igus offers a 36-month warranty from the first ordered meter starting at the Hannover Messe.