Maintenance in traffic light mode

With the new EC.WLC indicator, igus presents a simple solution for monitoring the condition of sliding energy chains in its E4Q series. What's special about it is that it works entirely without electronics, software, or an external power supply. The mechanical sensor indicates the wear level directly on the product using a color-based traffic light system, making maintenance plannable, transparent, and cost-effective.

The modular E4Q energy chain from igus is a true all-rounder in mechanical engineering, boasting high stability, tool-free assembly, and low noise levels. It is used in numerous industries, from machine tools and gantry systems to woodworking, automated warehouse and welding robotics systems. Especially for medium travel distances from six meters up to 35 meters, the E4Q offers a robust solution for dynamic applications with high loads.

To enable maintenance staff to quickly monitor the condition of their e-chains at a glance, igus has developed the EC.WLC condition indicator. It is installed directly in the middle of the travel path on the opening bar of the sliding energy chain – that is, where the chain rests and is subject to the most wear during operation. If the sensor displays a green color, the chain is in perfect condition, yellow signals incipient wear, and red indicates a clear need for action. The decreasing distance between the opening bars also indicates the level of wear. This allows maintenance intervals to be better planned, unplanned downtimes to be avoided, and resources to be used more effectively.

Control at a glance

"The EC.WLC provides noticeable relief for maintenance staff in their daily work: Instead of time-consuming visual inspections or complex digital systems, a quick glance at the display is enough," explains Richard Habering, Head of Smart Plastics at igus. "We wanted to create a solution that simply works, without any training, interfaces, or complexity. The EC.WLC is exactly that: an intelligent, yet incredibly simple answer to the question of how to make maintenance smarter and more economical, and all at a price of just €39." igus offers the condition indicator not only for the E4Q series, but also for various sizes from the E4.1, E2/000, and E2.1 series.