The elastic polymer spring elements connect the side parts of the energy chain to one another and prevent relative movements between the joints. Since the classic pin/bore connection is no longer used, friction and abrasion are reduced to a minimum even after millions of rolling cycles. According to an expert report presented by Cologne Technical College, up to 3.8 billion cycles were confirmed possible with the E6.1, depending on the machine application.
The significant weight saving of up to 37 per cent improves dynamics and lowers the required drive force; the new E6.1 is also 2dB(A) quieter. The optimised spring mechanism makes the E6.1 more modular, enabling the energy chain to be extended and shortened as required and helps speed up assembly and disassembly time. Whilst having the same internal dimensions, the E6.1 is both narrower and lighter, and the smooth interior helps increase the service life of cables and hoses.
The combination of inner link and outer link on the new E6.1 offers users a whole range of new possibilities. The pretension of the energy chain can be adjusted by reversing the inner link. This is very useful for applications in tight spaces or for gliding applications. If, on the other hand, the outer link is reversed, the stop-dog limit is changed, and with it the direction of rotation of the energy chain; this makes small circular movements and S-shaped movements possible, in “zigzag” chains for example.