Automated stacking cranes (ASC) are rail-mounted cranes used for stacking and moving containers. Working in pairs, they pick up and set down containers from dedicated areas located at each end of the stack. Here very long travel distances can pose a challenge to cable management, especially when speed and efficiency are essential for these ATCs that operate around the clock.
In this week’s video, we learn how the P4 roller e-chain is implemented to guide and protect cabling throughout the entire length of the ATC’s travel. The reliable and quiet cable management system is capable of travels up to 800m, while handling heavy fill weights of up to 30kg/m and at speeds of 10m/s.
The tribo-optimised plastic rollers, which are green in colour, are mounted such that the upper run rollers travel past the lower run rollers, not over them. In addition, comb-like crossbars guide the upper and lower energy chains securely. An additional benefit of using the P4 e-chain is that energy consumption is considerably lower, as the required driving force is more than halved, compared to conventional cable management systems.
To watch the video of the ASCs in action, please visit: www.igus.co.uk/stackingcranes For more information about igus’ innovative solutions for the packaging industry, please visit: www.igus.co.uk/cranes or call igus on 01604 677240.
