Why the HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45 sets new standards
Interview with Cihan Uraz, development engineer at HELUKABEL, on the market launch of the innovative drag chain
With the HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45, HELUKABEL is launching a new generation of drag chains onto the market. Developed with maximum efficiency, a long service life and versatile application options in mind, the 4-part all-plastic chain sets new standards - both technically and in terms of design. In this interview, development engineer Cihan Uraz explains how the new development came about, what special features it contains and why it is the ideal solution for many applications.
1. Mr Uraz, how did the idea for the HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45 come about?
Our last new chain series was a few years ago - a lot has happened on the market in that time. We took a critical look at our existing product range and compared it with competitor products. In doing so, we realised that our PKK plastic chain in its current form does not cover all potential areas of application. We therefore took the proven properties of the PKK, developed them further and transferred them to the new HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45 - with the aim of opening up new market segments.
We have also analysed comparable chains from market competitors. The insights gained were directly incorporated into the development of the HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45.
2. What were the biggest technical challenges?
A key development goal was to reduce the number of components per chain link to a minimum - specifically to just four components: two link plates and two stays. This saves material, simplifies assembly and increases efficiency.
At the same time, we wanted to extend the service life in use. To achieve this, we developed an abrasion-optimised design that offers particular advantages in sliding operation. In addition, the installation space was designed in such a way that optimum space utilisation is possible despite increasingly compact machines and increasing cable volumes. The combination of all these requirements - reduction, stability, service life and flexibility - was technically very demanding.
3. What sets the HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45 apart from the competition?
A key unique selling point for this construction height is our modular interior partitioning concept: with five different heights, the interior can be divided efficiently. In addition, the newly developed snap-in connector ensures a particularly stable connection of the link strands - without additional connecting elements.
The individual link plates of the chain engage behind each other and are therefore even more stable. The combination of snap-in connector and undercut is unique on the market. This also enables pre-assembled link strands and increases flexibility during assembly.
4. What advantages does the chain offer in assembly?
Fewer components mean less effort: with only four components per link, complexity is significantly reduced. The proven rotating kinematics between link plate and stay make it easier to open and close the chain. In combination with pre-assembled link strands, assembly is noticeably more efficient.
Particularly practical for the customer: the chain can be opened on both sides - a clear advantage when laying and maintaining cables in different installation positions. The dividers remain securely in place even when the chain is opened. This means that the inside of the chain always remains organised and easily accessible.
5. Which applications is the new energy chain particularly suitable for?
The HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45 is a real all-rounder. It is particularly strong in dynamic applications with high speeds and accelerations - for example in automation technology. But it also offers many advantages in mechanical and plant engineering thanks to its flexibility.
6. How important was noise reduction during development?
Quiet operation is becoming increasingly important - especially in noise-sensitive environments. That's why we have taken specific design measures to minimise noise. The optimised stop reduces noise without additional damping elements. At the same time, the stability of the chain is fully maintained - especially with unsupported lengths and the stops in the bending radius.
7. What role do sustainability and durability play?
Our chain is designed for a long service life - this reduces maintenance costs and conserves resources. The optimised use of materials per link and the robust design also contribute to sustainable operation.
8. Where is the journey going - what expansions are planned?
We are already working on further sizes and additional components that will further expand the range of functions and applications of the chain. We will be presenting some of these to the public at the SPS in Nuremberg in November. Our aim is to create a modular, future-proof system that can be flexibly adapted to new requirements.
Cihan Uraz
Development Engineer at HELUKABEL, on the market launch of the new HELUCHAIN PLASTIC LINK 4-45.
