As industrial automation continues to grow, the level of networking inside production sites is skyrocketing, and so too is the number and speed of machine motions. Cologne-based igus GmbH has taken on this challenge with the world’s biggest Ethernet cable program for the E-Chain, which includes a probably unique 36-month warranty that ensures even demanding applications in smart factories can be safely networked. The next step for the company is to bring intelligent robotic cables to HANNOVER MESSE 2016 that let users know when they are about to fail.

The Ethernet cables igus has developed for the energy chain – which come in 27 copper and fiber-optic grades and 422 ready-to-use Ethernet cables – already offer the best long-term transmission properties in motion. This outstanding performance is soon to be made smart, too, when permanent self-monitoring is launched. “The intelligent robotic cables can predict the future,” explains Rainer Rössel, who is responsible for chainflex cables at igus. The moment that set parameters are breached, the cable issues a warning in good time that a failure is likely and advises that the cables must be replaced within four weeks. “As a result, we are making a major contribution to preventive maintenance and thus improved plant availability,” says Rössel.

igus GmbH (51147 Cologne, Germany), Hall 17, Stand H04

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