Connecting up motors world-wide

“By doubling the UL-rating to 600V, the new Chainflex CF5 and CF6 600V UL cables can be used all over the world for connection to motors,” explains Justin Leonard of igus UK. “In the USA, for example, many applications with motors prescribe a voltage of 480V. In addition, NFPA 70 prohibits cables of different voltages being routed in one cable channel. So, for example, if 600V is required in connection with a servo frequency converter, this is the strict requirement for all the cables used, even if these are actually operated at lower voltages.”

The new control cables have an outer PVC jacket that is resistant to oil according to DIN EN, and are bundled in very short pitch lengths around a highly tensile-resistant core rope. The copper stranding has been optimised for highly dynamic use in energy chains. The gusset-filled extruded inner jacket of the shielded “CF6 600V UL” family and the gusset-filled extruded outer jacket of the non-shielded “CF5 600V UL” family, route the wires within the cable in the longitudinal direction, significantly increasing the durability of the cable. Thanks to the specially designed braided shield with the high optical coverage of 90%, high EMC protection is guaranteed even after millions of double strokes.

Alongside the logo marking the AWM (appliance wiring material) cables, the UL temperatures, UL voltage ratings and continuous production length (metres) markings are all printed on the new cables. The UL approval for the CF5/CF6 600V UL has been granted on account of its special material combination, and not only stands for flame resistance, but for tested quality too. “This is testament to our ongoing commitment to quality, since UL inspectors regularly visit production lines to examine our installed cables,” adds Leonard. “igus has the largest catalogue range of energy chain cables with UL approval in the world – 65% of all Chainflex cables have UL approval.”