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Energy supply systems for telescopes and antennas

Telescope
Telescope

The combination of solid steel construction, precision engineering and sophisticated electronics turn modern telescopes, observatories and antennas into high-tech machines. Telescope manufacturers around the world have been relying on energy chains, cables and complete solutions from igus® for over 20 years. In elevation, azimuth and GIR, they ensure a reliable energy supply for many years.

Advantages of igus® energy chain systems:

  • Lightweight plastic chains, 43 % less weight than steel drag chains
  • Low friction and low drive force, wear-resistant and low vibration, easy handling on the construction site
  • Worldwide service and warranty
  • Easy co-operation with experienced telescopic specialists

Elevation/Altitude

The adjustment of the elevation angle in telescopes and antennas is referred to as elevation or altitude. Specifically, this involves aligning mirrors or telescopes at the correct angle. Energy chains are used to guide the cable in vertical movement.

e-chains in altitude
E4.1 e-chain

energy chain E4.1

  • Our standard for almost all applications
  • Robust, low-noise and modular
  • Easy to install and fill
More information about the E4.1 series

Azimuth

In addition to the vertical angle, rotation in the horizontal plane is the decisive movement in telescopes and antennas. This rotary movement is known as azimuth. Simple rotation systems from igus® enable rotation angles of up to 600°. In this example, two reverse chains are shown on two levels.

Azimuth with RBR system
RBR system

Reverse bend radius system

igus® has been working on systems for the circular movement of energy chains for many years. Our reverse bend radius systems have proven themselves worldwide and in numerous industries as a solution for rotation angles of up to 600°.

Learn more

Azimuth/GIR

Below the azimuth, in the "belly" of the telescope, all the cables of the system come together. This special pivot point is also known as the azimuth or GIR. Managing the amount of cable safely and reliably here is a major challenge. This is why the energy chain and cables are often distributed over several levels. In this example, there are three levels, each with two chains running into each other.

Azimuth/GIR with MRM system
MRM system

Multi Rotation Module system

For applications with a rotation angle of over 600°, we have developed the Multi Rotation Module. Here, the rotary movement is extended to additional levels. This allows rotation angles of up to 900° to be achieved.

Learn more

Other application areas

Telescope rotary movements

In addition to altitude, azimuth and GIR, which are among the greatest challenges for energy chains in telescopes, there are also other possible applications. For example, moving cables can also be found in the rotary movement of the usually gigantic domes or in the closing systems of opening flaps. Here, too, our energy chains offer protection and at the same time ensure smooth and easy running.

Assistance pour les demandes

Pour toute question supplémentaire ou information sur les produits, veuillez contacter :

igus® Inc. Canada+1 800 965 2496Courriel

Service clientèle:
Téléphone : du lundi au vendredi, de 8 h à 17 h.
LiveChat : 24 heures sur 24.

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