Blue energy chains

Even in the most modern production lines, machine failure and damage cannot be eliminated, and being able to detect foreign materials quickly in food is vital to guarantee the reliability of food production lines. 

igus has designed a detectable polymer energy chain by using a special plastic material, igumid DT. Spherical particles of the blue material as small as 1mm can be detected in fragments passing at speeds of 20m/min by all standard metal detection systems.

This provides peace of mind to food production managers that, in case of machine failure, no part of the energy chain will enter and contaminate the food chain. The blue detectable material igumid DT is available for the E2/000 and E4.1 series energy chains.

igus has also introduced a hygienic version of its chainflex cable which has been designed for use in moving applications in the food and drink industry, effectively preventing the growth of bacteria, viruses and mould.

The jacket material has special additives and its anti-microbial properties are contained throughout the composition of the jacket.  As a result, anti-bacterial properties are emitted over a long life time to restrict the growth of micro-organisms.  The new material has successfully passed the international tests for anti-microbial activity and effectiveness in line with ISO 22196 and JIS Z 2801.

 Justin Leonard, director at igus, comments: "Ensuring safety in the food and drink industry is paramount and the contamination of food is illegal under the UK’s Food Safety Act 1990.  "We have developed these two new blue products to make it as easy as possible for our customers to ensure they are operating in the most hygienic way, and preparing food to the highest standards.  We have used the colour blue because it is not naturally found in food and can be easily detected.”