e-chains® for High-Speed Sheet Metal Feeding

Strothmann's linear motor technology greatly increased blank feeder dynamics. The horizontal axis achieves speeds of up to 6m/s – almost twice those of a toothed-belt-drive feeder – and the vertical 2m/s, all with payloads of up to 250kg. Accelerations of up to 20m/s² are around twice those of a conventional feeder. The high horizontal speeds and elimination of the toothed belt mean that the feeders can also quickly bridge very large distances, opening up completely new system layout options. Strothmann developed and delivered a blank feeder for feeding sheet metal to a blanking press. It has a normal working cycle of 2 to 2.50 meters for placing the blanks onto the belt. But during tooling changes, the axis travels 13 meters. Given the high level of precision and dynamics, toothed belt drives cannot manage such travels.

The energy supply system needed to be in sync with the high speeds and accelerations and allow a continuous, reliable supply of energy, compressed air, cooling medium, and control information, even over long distances.

For the blank feeders – and other handling systems with linear technology – Strothmann uses igus® E6-series energy chains, which have proven themselves in many highly dynamic applications. In selecting a supplier, the Strothmann developers also considered the fact that their MagShuttle system cable carriers have to withstand high loads. Since the igus® cable carriers have a documented long service life even under high dynamic loads, they were the right choice for MagShuttle systems and other Strothmann handling systems.

The E6 series offers many advantages in addition to long service life. It features extremely quiet, low-vibration operation, working well with the low-vibration linear motor drive concept. It minimizes the polygon effect, which can occur when an energy supply system is rolled up. The ultra-low noise levels have been confirmed in a recent expert assessment by TÜV Rheinland.

The large product range allows selection of an optimum size for each application; the design engineer also has a wide range of interior separation options. The same is true of mounting brackets.