Flexible cables are used in various applications, such as in drag chains with short travel distances & high cycles, long travel distances, or torsion-resistant cables for robotic applications as control or data cable.

• Robotic applications (e.g., torsion-capable cables)
• Drag chain cables with short or long travel distances (depending on cycle time and load)
• Data or control cables (for interference-free transmission in control systems and networks)

Tip: Define in advance whether your application primarily requires flexibility, signal quality, or durability.

Electrical properties are crucial when selecting drag chain cables. Key parameters include nominal voltage, test voltage, and operating peak voltage. Special requirements such as UL/cUL approval must also be considered, especially for international applications.

• Nominal voltage, test voltage, and operating peak voltage
• Is a special UL/cUL-approved voltage range required?

Practical example: UL/cUL approval for cables is often essential for exporting machines to the North American market.

To ensure long service life under demanding conditions, drag chain cables must be mechanically robust and resistant to environmental influences. Important factors include bending radius, temperature resistance, and protection against ozone, UV, oil, chemicals, and seawater.

• Bending radius (particularly small bending radii for tight installation)
• Temperature resistance (from -50 °C to +200 °C)
• Ozone and UV resistance (for use in harsh environments)
• Oil, chemical, and saltwater resistance

Note: The harsher the environment, the more important high-quality sheathing materials are.

The expected service life of drag chain cables is influenced by dynamic loads. Parameters such as acceleration, travel speed, and chain length are essential for practical cable selection. The table compares typical values to help estimate durability.

• Accelerations (5 m/s² to over 40 m/s²)
• Travel speeds (1 m/s to over 10 m/s)
• Chain lengths (5 m to over 25 m)

Rule of thumb: The higher the speed and acceleration, the more robust the cable must be.

Depending on the application, additional features or standards may be relevant. Low-capacitance cables are important for long transmission distances. Halogen-free cables meet stringent fire protection requirements. Shielded or twisted-pair cables ensure interference-free data transmission. Compliance with international standards such as UL, CSA, or CE guarantees reliable use worldwide.

• Low-capacity cables for long transmission distances
• Halogen-free cables for use in areas with high fire safety requirements
• Shielded cables or twisted pair construction for interference-free data transmission
• Standards and approvals (e.g., UL, CSA)