To safely guide cables in suspended applications, igus has developed the e-loop as an alternative to the service loop. This is because the service loop often causes a number of problems: the cables have no guidance, do not have a defined bending radius, cannot move and, in the worst case, break. When the service loop is serviced or repaired, the entire system has to be replaced as the cables are cast together. "With the e-loop, we have developed an alternative to the service loop.

The three-dimensional cable carrier combines the advantages of a plastic energy chain with a high-strength tension cable. The cable absorbs the tensile forces inside the chain and transfers them to the connecting elements. As a result, the cables remain completely strain-relieved," says Tim Schneebeck, Industry Manager Oil & Gas at igus GmbH. The modular e-chain made of high-performance plastic offers a defined bending radius at all times and withstands vibrations and impacts thanks to PU protectors.

Save procurement time and costs
The e-loop successfully replaces the service loop, particularly in deep drilling rigs. However, the e-loop is also used in shore power supply or opencast mining: "We have already won many projects. Customers often wanted a complete energy supply system with the necessary VDE and IEC tests," says Schneebeck. "For low-voltage cables, for example for Top Drive systems, we were able to supply a completely finished, tested readychain system with chainflex cables right from the start. For high-voltage cables and special connectors, we now have the right partners on board," says Markus Hüffel, Product Manager readychain & readycable at igus GmbH. igus can now also supply all e-loops with special cables and special connectors for shore power supply and Ex zones as a complete system. The cable carrier is assembled by igus and tested with a Megger VLF Sinus 34kV. The readychain system saves the user almost 90% of the procurement time and 68% of the installation time. In addition, depending on the configuration of the e-loop, igus provides a warranty of up to 36 months.

e-loop series also extended for static applications
Due to the success of the system, igus has now expanded the e-loop series to include a semi-rigid version. The new version has been specially developed for static applications, for example in shore power supply for the energy supply from the mast to the power container, has a low weight and is cost-effective. The e-loop is also available with castors and handle modules so that it can be easily moved from A to B via the ground at quay facilities. If the e-loop is no longer in use due to the service life of the machine and system, igus will take it back and guarantee that it will be recycled according to type. In return, the user receives a credit note based on the net weight.