Self-supporting over a travel of 28 m: energy chain for milling machine from Deckel Maho

Problem

The machine manufacturer DECKEL MAHO Pfronten is focusing on maximum modularity with this machining center: The modern DMU 600 Gantry 5-axis machining center for milling workpieces is said to be easy to convert for different machining lengths. The X-travel of the machine (or the energy chain) is 6 meters as standard and must be able to be extended to up to 28 m according to customer requirements. This means that XXL workpieces can also be processed. In order to carry out high-precision machining, the positioning accuracies of the linear axes are well below 10 μm. A high travel speed of 45 m/min and an acceleration of 3 m/s² of the 50-t machine crossbeam was also given great importance in the machine design. It was precisely for these requirements that a suitable routing of the lines and hoses had to be found. Due to their high weight, it had to be ensured that the energy chain did not sag. A classic, static support or a sliding application of the chain were out of the question for technical reasons.

Solution

Arranged horizontally next to the machine high up on the control cabinet, a guidelok energy chain has proven itself today for the safe guidance of heavy hoses and cables. In this case, several supports at different positions on the chain hold the upper run up and the sliding of the upper part of the chain on the lower run is avoided. The highlight of the support system: At the end of the supports, which hold the upper run of the chain up, there are roller seats that fold in as soon as the chain radius passes them. When the chain returns, the brackets kick in again and support the cable guide. Thanks to this flexibility, even travel distances of up to 50 m can be realized in a self-supporting manner.

Since two such energy chains have been arranged in opposite directions (contrary to the alternative of interlocking chains), the cables and hoses lead from the same position into both guides. And this even if the travel distance and thus the chain length is increased according to the customer's requirements. This avoids time-consuming changeovers for different machine variants and reduces the assembly effort.

On top of that, the energy chain is designed for high speeds and accelerations, a long service life and simple and quick installation.