igus seeks collaboration with interested engineers

igus has developed a prototype for an energy chain that’s specifically designed for compact applications where space is at a premium, such as food-vending machines, laboratory equipment or electric doors.

In these space-limited applications, designers often dispense with guides for individual moving cables, thus risking cable damage and unnecessary maintenance costs, the company said. To address this problem, it has come up with a new one-piece energy chain in the E1 series, first shown as a design study at the Hannover Messe in 2025.

“We received positive feedback from designers around the world who have been searching in vain for a cost-effective cable guide solution for compact installation spaces. This motivated us to press ahead with development,” said Kira Weller, Product Manager e-chains at igus.

The energy chain’s one-piece design, produced in a single injection-moulding process, makes it more cost-effective than energy chains consisting of several assembled chain links, igus said. It also gives the cable stability in very small installation spaces, providing a longer service life for the system. The company’s easy-chain principle makes assembly relatively easy for users, who can push the cable through the flexible teeth without tools; these teeth secure it firmly on both sides and protect it from external influences. The guide can then be attached with integrated mounting brackets, which enable movement with a controlled bend radius.

Calling interested engineers

To prepare the product for high-volume production, igus is seeking design engineers interested in pilot projects. The company wants to adapt the e-chain to various applications, with movements as short as 40 mm possible, eg, when conveying electrical objects. Several materials are available for injection moulding, including the high-performance plastic igumid NB, which is characterised by wear resistance, resilience and chemical resistance.

“We want to work with users to take the final steps towards series production,” Weller said. “We welcome everyone who wants to bring their ideas to life with us.”

Product testers can register via: https://www.igus.eu/service/contact/e1-request.

Image: Supplied