The hygienic versions of igus’ chainflex cables (above) prevent the growth of bacteria, viruses and mould. Unlike cables that are given anti-bacterial coatings that can wear off over time – especially when used in energy chain applications – the new “blue” CFSpecial 544 cables contain additives dispersed throughout the jacket material. This ensures that the anti-bacterial properties are maintained for a long time and are not affected by the jacket wearing. The material, which has passed international tests for anti-microbial activity in line with ISO 22196 and JIS Z 2801, can be applied to a variety of cables.

The second development is a range of polymer energy chains (above) with metallic particles dispersed throughout the plastic material. This ensures that if a tiny part of the chain breaks off, it can be spotted by end-of-line magnetic detectors. Igus says that particles of the plastic material as small as 1mm across can be detected at speeds of 20m/min by standard metal detection systems.

In the event of a machine failure, this ensures that no part of the energy chain will enter and contaminate the food. The detectable igumid DT material is available for igus’ E2/000 and E4.1 series energy chains.