plastic-energy chain in 3D concrete printer

• What was needed: energy chain system 1640 and triflex®
• Requirements: Compact dimensions, harsh environmental conditions
• Industry: Construction machinery
• Success for the customer: The reliability of the machine was increased and the weight reduced at the same time

EvoConstructor® is a robotic portal that combines 3D printing in concrete with the automation of the construction process using robotics. It is the only construction site system in the world that automates the majority of construction activities and, thanks to its self-lifting system (it builds up to 40 m high), enables the construction of customised, large-scale buildings without height or shape restrictions. Its latest generation control system performs automated tasks such as Building concrete walls by 3D printing, plastering walls, laying floor slabs and laying ceramic tiles on walls and floors. It can automate up to 60 % of a building's construction process.

The customer needed a compact yet robust and safe energy supply for its 3D concrete printer. The machine's cables must be protected from friction on the surrounding elements of the machine. In addition, the cables must be protected from stresses caused by torsion of the system and, as the entire system is exposed to the elements, the energy supply must also be able to be used in bad weather.

For this application, the customer opted for an energy chain from the 1640 series and the triflex® energy chain.
The first advantage of igus® products is increased durability and longevity: this leads to a longer service life of the components, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and increasing operational efficiency, which is why we chose them over other competitors.

The materials that igus® uses in its products are known to have low friction properties. This results in smoother and more efficient operation as well as lower energy consumption, which is particularly important in robotic applications such as ours, where energy efficiency is critical.

The igus® solutions are lightweight and designed to minimise the weight of mechanical systems. This is essential for our robot structure, as weight reduction can contribute to faster and more efficient movement.

The energy chains from igus® are resistant to adverse conditions such as dust, moisture and extreme temperatures. This can improve the reliability and efficiency of an application, especially in the demanding industrial environments to which our technology is exposed.