igus to showcase rugged energy chains, chainflex cables and bearings at Offshore Europe 2011

igus energy chains are fabricated from high performance plastics – they are tough, resistant to corrosion and impact offering high UV, temperature and precipitation stability, they are lubricant-free so require no maintenance and have very long working lives, making them a very cost-effective choice. They are also available in ATEX-ESD compliant versions, and have been proven by test to function reliably even at extreme temperatures and in adverse weather conditions.

The benefits provided by igus energy chains means that they are being widely adopted in offshore applications and, since plastic energy chains are much lighter than steel, their size is not self-limited by weight. On display at the igus stand will be the E4.350, the largest plastic energy chain in the world, which is well-suited to carrying large cables and hoses 15 metres up and down during operations such as drilling head stroke, or lateral rig-skidding.

Complementing the energy chains are the igus chainflex cables that are equally well-suited for operation in demanding conditions. Specifically, the chainflex CF77/78, CF112, CF113, CFLG, CF27 and CF270 cables are all NEK-rated, offering excellent flexibility of both their copper cores and their insulation over a very wide temperature range, as well as being exceptionally resistant to abrasion and other forms of mechanical damage.

For long travel e-chains, typically found in crane applications, igus will be launching its PPDS (push pull force detection) Easy 2.0 condition monitoring system. This is a special component, developed as part of the modular cable management system. Its function is to read the push-pull forces of the moving system electronically, and shut the system down safely if certain forces are encountered – such as a mechanical obstruction. In case of an error, an alarm message is immediately and automatically generated and sent by e-mail or SMS. An analysis of the error message is thus feasible at any required location. The stored data can also be retrieved and analysed retrospectively for up to three months.

Visitors to the igus stand will also be introduced to readychain®. It is a complete system, comprising igus pre-harnessed cables, plugs, connectors and energy chain, offered as a simple design or a complex one with chainflex cables alongside pneumatic and hydraulic hoses. Reducing the leadtime for the design, purchase and assembly considerably, a complete readychain system can be tailor-made to meet with any project requirement and will be assembled and delivered within three to ten days.

Also on display will be a range of iglidur® polymer bearings, which are resistant to dirt, sea water, chemicals and extreme temperature. The insensitivity to dirt and ruggedness of the iglidur PRT slewing ring bearings, for example, can be complemented with stainless steel head rings. For environments requiring high chemical resistance, the iglidur X material is suitable for temperatures up to +250°C, offering extreme media resistance even in sub-sea applications. And, for heavy-duty pivoting applications, the iglidur Q2 bearing is wear-resistant and can cope under extreme conditions.

Throughout the exhibition, experts from igus UK will be on hand to provide advice and guidance on selecting energy chains, bearings and cabling assemblies for your own specific application.

igus UK Ltd
Stand 4E99
Offshore Europe 2011
Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre
6th – 8th September, 2011