Multi-directional energy supply with the new cable and hose reel standard from igus

Reel up cables and hoses safely over a distance of 21 meters without the aid of a motor

Whether at a height, flat on the ground or at a depth. With the e-spool - a unique slipring-free cable reel - igus offers an energy supply system for different application scenarios. The compact, spring-driven system can safely guide compressed air hoses and energy, data, or fiber optic cables. In order to offer users a cable crawler system for even longer stroke lengths, igus has developed a new standard. Thanks to an optimized design, the e-spool can now be used to move cables and hoses over a distance of 21 meters without the need for a motor. 

In stage technology, on oil platforms or in process cranes - the roll-off e-spool is applied wherever cables must be moved safely and in the smallest spaces. The compact cable caterpillar system from igus is an alternative to classic cable drums, but with two important differences: the cable caterpillar is the only solution that can transport not only energy, but also other media such as data, compressed air and liquids. And all this is possible because it combines two different energy supply systems. A standard cable track, which is guided through a guide roller, always ensures the correct length and tension of the cable track system thanks to an integrated brake spring. An igus twister belt is responsible for the rotational movements. This special structure allows movements in all directions. Another difference: the e-spool does not require an expensive slip ring. This means that a wide variety of cables can be connected continuously in a limited space and can be replaced or added at any time. To allow users to fall back on the practical cable rail application for longer travel distances, igus has developed a new e-spool standard for stroke lengths up to 21 meters. igus presented this new product as a prototype to a specialized audience at the Hannover Messe.

Optimized construction for more filling and carrying capacity

The new e-spool was developed based on customer requests, feedback and experiences in recent years and fills the gap between the spring-driven standard e-spool for up to 14 meters of stroke length and the motorized e-spool for larger projects, for example in the offshore sector or in operas. The new cable crawler system was equipped with a larger twister belt for greater fill. To compensate for the workload and stroke length, the new construction of the e-spool offers more reinforcement, a more stable fully enclosed housing and a reinforced floor plate as retraction protection. To withstand the higher forces, the developers also chose an optimized spring force adjustment mechanism. The new e-spool is available as a spring-driven version with 2 HD spring packs or as a motor-driven version with a built-in stationary motor.