Igus has developed what it claims is the largest plastic energy chain in the world for applications on offshore oil drilling platforms.
The E4.350 is wear-resistant, maintenance-free and resistant to seawater and mineral oil.
It resists corrosion and is made from high-performance plastics that are lighter and less expensive than comparable stainless steel energy chains.
The plastic energy chains can move 15m up and down during the drilling head stroke (top driving) when the drilling rig is moved on to an oil platform (rig skidding).
This guarantees heavy hydraulic cables are guided and protected.
The energy chain has an internal height of 350mm and a variable inner width of 200mm to one metre, giving a large internal capacity.
Large cables and hoses with a diameter of up to 300mm are guided stably by the plastic chain, with a potential fill weight of more than 100kg/m.
The special design of the E4.350 ensures high torsional stiffness and stability.
An interlocking tongue-and-groove bolted joint allows the links to move easily.
Inner/outer link design ensures a straight run and quick assembly.
Integrated sliding surfaces, larger wear surfaces and strong stop-dogs ensure a long service life.
Gliding use is possible for travelling long distances.
Centre links increase stability and make it possible to extend the width of the energy chain almost without limit.
Accessories include internal cable separation and shelving parts.
The E4.350 brings safety to extreme applications on oil platforms or in steel works, where cables often hang loose without guidance or protection.
The lubricant-free plastic chain does not require any maintenance and offers weight and cost savings for the machine.
The E4.350 series will be available in 2009.
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