Cables for drag chains – what to look out for

Drag chains are a challenging application for cables and wires due to their constant movement. This applies even more when it comes to the transmission of sensitive signals such as measurement and system data. The TKD groups KAWEFLEX 5468 and KAWEFLEX 5488 exemplify the four most important properties that are essential here.

1. on bending and not breaking: the high number of bending cycles

In energy supply chains, cables are constantly moved and bent sharply. To ensure a high degree of reliability and precise signal transmission, test and system cables should be made for tight bending radii and a high number of bending cycles. TKD cables have values of at least 100,000 bending cycles for light to medium requirements (KAWEFLEX 5468) and up to an impressive 10 million bending cycles (KAWEFLEX 5488). They can be bent to a radius of up to 7.5 x d, i.e. 7.5 times their diameter, without damage to the cable. This is possible due to the stable sheath material Pelon 2, the optimized lay length and the manufacturing process of pressure extrusion. The sheathing is extruded in a liquid state at high pressure and tightly around the cable core.

2. You are not alone: the topic of shielding

Cables are never alone in drag chains. Several power or signal lines share the space in the chain chambers, which can lead to electromagnetic interference. To ensure that everything that goes in at the beginning comes out at the end without loss, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is indispensable. TKD instrumentation and system cables are suitable for EMC-compatible wiring in plant and machinery and in control and automation systems.

Shielding is by copper, either as tinned copper braiding or copper wrapping, depending on the design. The optical coverage of about 85 percent is retained even when the cable is moved.

3. Against all odds: Remains stable even in challenging environments

The production floor is a busy place. Consequently, measuring and system cables have to withstand more than just mechanical stresses. Temperature, humidity and even various supply media can have a massive impact on the service life of cables. TKD Kabel's solutions show how cables can be designed to be robust and durable. The material of the outer sheath determines the area of application for which they are suitable. For example, cables with PVC sheathing (KAWEFLEX 5468) The durable PUR material (KAWEFLEX 5488) makes the lines suitable for outdoor use. The TKD lines mentioned are able to withstand operating temperatures of up to 90°C when in motion. They are also oil-resistant and largely resistant to fats, coolants and lubricants.

4. Nothing works without it: the right provider

For more complex applications, such as drag chains, it is ideal to use manufacturers who can also serve as service partners. TKD Kabel supports its customers with comprehensive advice on the selection of the right application-specific cables, wires and cable accessories. It also handles cable assembly and the creation of cable systems that are ready for connection. The company's just-in-time delivery concept ensures short turnaround and delivery times. The company's close contacts with industry mean that new developments are regularly emerging to meet changing market requirements for cables and wires. With KAWEFLEX KINEMATICS, for instance, TKD has developed a solution for measuring and system cables that further increases the degree of mechanical stress and, in addition to a high bending load of 7.5 x d bending radius in motion, also allows a high torsional load of ±180°. This makes it ideal for use in robotics applications.

Images: TKD Kabel