Recommended Drag Chain? - Unsupported
Thank you for your inquiry! When I was searching for information, I noticed that many of the links on THIS community forum and the wiki were non-functional. However, after examining a friend's XL model, I've decided to utilize it for my 4-Axis Shapeoko 3 specifically along the Y and X Rails. (I won't be sharing links here since we know how reliable those can be!)
For further details, please visit our website.
From The Jungle Place (Amazon): You can look for the LMioEtool R28/38 15mm x 20mm Drag Chain. Ensure that you select the version that OPENS (Ref: 15*20B). I mistakenly purchased a non-B type initially, which was not what I needed. Trust me on this!
The price is $13 for a 1-meter length.
Additionally, I bought some extra connectors for the chain: simply search for uxcell Drag Chain End Connector for 15x20mm.
I am very satisfied with this product.
Insight into Cable Drag Chains - Overview
Cable drag chains, often called cable chains, cable carriers, cable tracks, and energy chains, serve as flexible hollow structures designed to guide, support, and protect cables, hoses, and hydraulic lines in motion. Their primary purpose in industrial applications is to prevent tangling or damage to cables and hoses during machine operation, reducing the risk of accidents and minimizing downtime.
Materials Used in Manufacturing Cable Drag Chains
Manufacturers choose between steel and plastic based on the specific requirements and constraints of the application when producing cable drag chains. Each material brings distinct advantages that cater to various industrial needs.
Steel and Metallic Components
Steel has been a fundamental material for cable drag chains since their introduction by Tsubaki-KabelSchlepp® in the early years. Its high tensile strength and temperature resistance keep it as the go-to choice for many industrial applications even today.
The types of steel commonly used include:
Stainless steel: This variant offers superior environmental resistance and heavy load-bearing capabilities.
Zinc-plated steel: A traditional choice for applications demanding significant load capacity.
Hybrid (metallic & nylon): This combination is suitable for designs requiring flexibility and accommodating higher speeds and acceleration.
High-Performance Plastics
Manufacturers began using plastics like polypropylene (PP) for drag chains in the early years. Today, plastic drag chains have become just as common as their steel counterparts and provide unique advantages for certain applications. Tsubaki-KabelSchlepp® understands that every cable track application varies and offers a diverse material selection, ensuring that no single material is perfect for every scenario. Furthermore, Tsubaki-KabelSchlepp® can produce custom tracks when required by specific applications.
Examples of specialized plastics used include:
Chip repellent materials: Designed to withstand flying metal chips, even at temperatures as high as 1,500°F.
Cleanroom materials: These are dust-free and ideal for environments requiring extreme cleanliness, such as semiconductor manufacturing.
Electrostatic discharging materials: These are necessary for manufacturing sensitive electronic devices.
Flame-retardant materials: Suitable for use in areas with flammable materials.
Magnetically detectable materials: Fragments from these materials can be detected by metal sensors, making them ideal for applications where minimal product contamination is crucial, like food processing.
Cable Types Compatible with Drag Chains
Drag chains support, guide, and protect various types of constant flex cables and hoses, including:
Bio-oil and microbial-resistant cables: These are resistant to abrasion and biofuels and are eco-friendly, made from recyclable materials.
Data cables: These can function under conditions from -40°F to 70°F.
PUR (polyurethane) cables: Suitable for flexing cables with temperatures ranging from -20°F to 80°F, or -40°F to 80°F for fixed installations.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) cables: Able to operate within -10°F to 80°F, these cables are flexible and feature good oil resistance with meter markings.
Applications of Cable Drag Chains
Drag chains are available in diverse designs to accommodate various applications, primarily classified into two groups:
Linear: Moving straight for distances that can range from less than one meter to over 100 meters.
Circular (or rotary): These move in circular arcs.
They can also be categorized by application types:
Standard carriers offer a straightforward design for rapid cable installation.
Advanced carriers feature variable chain widths and more separation options than standard options.
Extreme carriers, typically constructed from steel or stainless steel, cater to demanding environments.
3D application carriers demonstrate rotational or swivel-type movements in multiple dimensions.
Common locations for cable drag chains include ports, green energy systems, machine tools, process automation equipment, and vehicle transport systems.
Quality Drag Chains: Tsubaki-KabelSchlepp®
U.S. Tsubaki, a subsidiary of Tsubakimoto Chain Company, adheres to ISO certified standards, producing superior quality power transmission, motion control, and bulk material handling equipment, including drag chains under the Tsubaki-KabelSchlepp® brand. For additional information about our product offerings, please visit our Tsubaki-KabelSchlepp® cable carriers page, or contact us for guidance in selecting one that meets your criteria.
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