Cable chain ("E-chain") - sizes and sources

[Gerald D]

The Classic version of the MechMate did not have any prescribed cable chain specs. There were a couple of choices by builders, most of them going for cable chains that were too big, and some cases too tight a radius. The earlier history of this thread is in the archive (http://www.mechmate.com/forums/showthread.php?t=496). After learning what chains were available from where, it surprised me to discover that the sizes have been largely standardised across various manufacturers, that Igus is a very popular brand and that McMaster-Carr actually has fairly good prices on a smaller range of cable sizes. Here follows a consolidation of the posts in the archive . . .

1. Cross-section:

The outside diameters of the typical cables in the chain: source (http://www.lappusa.com/Spec_Template.asp?nGroupID=10114)

4x Motor cables (M), 4 core, 1.0mm2 [18 AWG], diam.: 7.3mm [0.287"] (only 2 motor cables in Y-chain)
1x Router cable (R), 3 cores (maybe 2 only) 2.5mm2 [14 AWG], diam.: 8.9mm [0.35"]
1 Signals cable (S), 7 core, 0.5mm2 [21 AWG], diam.: 7.5mm [0.295"]
1 E-stop/aux. mains cable (E), 4 core, 0.5mm2 [21 AWG], 6.5mm [0.256"]
1 Ground cable (G), single core, say OD of 6mm [0.25"]
1 Air hose maybe one day - say OD 18mm [3/4"]

Drawn to scale, inside a common 24mm [0.98"] internal height chain:

595

As can be seen, an internal width of 38mm [1.5"] is sufficient for all the cables (the chain producers typically want 20% clearance around the cables) and in the case of the y-axis with less motor cables, there is even enough space for an air hose.

On the Mamba, the shelf and bracketry for the X-chain (10 60 210 and 10 20 457) will take either the 38 or 57mm [1.5" or 2.2"] wide chains. The Y-chain fittings are designed for the 38mm [1.5"] wide chain only

No problem to use 38mm [1.5"] chain on both axes for economy . . . . things like air hoses can be dropped from the ceiling, or a couple of other routes. (air hoses are tougher and cheaper than our cables!)

2. Bending radius

Chain with an internal height of 24mm [1"] can be found in a number of different bending radii. The cable producer decides the minimum bend radius of their cable. Ölflex says 6 times cable diameter, others say more. Our application is not particularly demanding on the cables, and although I don't know where you are all getting your cables and their specs, I feel a bend radius in the range 75 to 100mm [3 to 4"] is quite adequate. Too small and the chain doesn't roll so smoothly and strains the cable a bit. Too big and the chain becomes clumsy, unsightly and more expensive because more chain is needed in the loop.

The Mamba brackets are designed for 75mm [3"] radius chain. If using 100mm [4"] radius chain, the bracket on the y-car (1060325P) needs to be bent up or a spacer must be put under the end of the chain where it connects to the bracket.

1730


3. Open and Opening

We use "open" style chain - meaning that we can see the cables inside. Sawdust can get in, and fall out again. "Closed" chain is nearly dustproof, and very expensive.

"Opening" (or "snap-open") chain allows one to flip open the bars to lay the cable from the side/top of the chain. That is a luxury that is more trouble than its worth on a short chain such as ours. I found myself feeding the cables from the end, despite having "opening" chain. Suggest we get "non-opening" chain.

4. Suppliers

My current suggestion on cable chain suppliers and part numbers in the USA:

Igus part 20-2-075-0 (http://www.igus.com/igus/wech4_i.asp?part=20-2-075-0&series=20&group=E-Chain%20E2%20Mid-Size) .98H x 1.5W x 2.95R. End bracket set 202-12 (http://www.igus.com/igus/wech_brc_i.asp?bracket=202-12&series=S20&prefix=20&suffix=12&width=38&desig=2),

McMAster-Carr (http://www.mcmaster.com/nav/enter.asp?pagenum=1452) 4516T22 0.98H x 1.5W x 3.94R (the next smaller Radius that they stock (4516T21 at 2.2") is too small) $73.80 per 6' without end brackets - $9.68 per set of brackets (4556T56)

MSC direct : don't seem to give the options on bigger radii - their "stock" sizes are too tight?

Kabelschlepp (http://www.kabelschlepp.com/) 0450.20 (1.5"W) and 0450.40 (2.2"W) at 3.7" Radius are suitable

www.brevettistendalto.it (http://www.brevettistendalto.it), SR325040075 for 40mm wide 75R, or SR325060075 for 60mm wide 75R

www.murrplastik.com (http://www.murrplastik.com) represented worldwide, maybe the MP300037095 (37mm wide) or MP300056095 (56mm wide) - 95mm Radius

Kumbhojkar Plastic Moulders (http://www.plamoulds.com/prod_drachn_ccs.html) radius is too small

Please check my numbers carefully.

[Kobus_Joubert]

Hi Gerald,

I suppose it is somewhere in this vast ocean of information, but can you tell me what lengt's I need for X-Axis and Y-Axis for the MAMBA version.

This is when I use IGUS cable carrier chain.

[Gerald D]

Would somebody else please venture a second opinion on this. . . .

- Take X or Y dimension and divide by 2 (two) (half the table size)
- add 50mm [2"] because the design allows the tool to move past the edges of the table.
- add the half-circle that the cable uses in the "fold" - cable radius X Pi (3.1416)
- add one cable link for spare (tolerance)

[J.R. Hatcher]

Later this morning I will measure mine. This is from McMaster Carr website.

<LI class=PageHdrNm>Cable & Hose Carriers



About Cable and Hose Carriers http://www.mcmaster.com/catalog/114/gfx/large/c1hgi30fl.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:chgimg('ENC');)


Carriers are designed to guide, contain, and protect electrical cable and hose during machine movement. They are ideal for use in dynamic applications between fixed and moving portions of machines. Carriers reduce wear on cables and hoses, prevent cable and hose entanglement, improve machine operation and appearance, and reduce safety hazards to operators. Good cable and hose management extends machine life and reduces machine failures and maintenance. When installing, evenly distribute cable and hose weight within carrier cavity. To select the correct carrier size and length, use the following guidelines: 1. Select the carrier with an interior height (C) that's 20% larger than the largest diameter cable or hose, or match existing overall height (A). 2. Select the carrier with an interior width (D) that's 20% larger than the sum of the cable and hose diameters, or match existing overall width (B). 3. Ensure that the bend radius (R) is greater than the minimum bend radius of cables and hoses being used. 4. Ensure that loop height (H) is less than the available vertical space. 5. Ensure that the overall width (B) will fit the designated space. 6. Ensure that 1/2T is less than the maximum unsupported length of the carrier. 7. Determine required carrier length: CL= Carrier Length, T= Total Machine Travel, L= Loop Length • If the Fixed End is located at the center of Total Machine Travel, use the following formula:
CL = 1/2T + L • If the Fixed End is offset from the center of Total Machine Travel, use the following formula:
CL = 1/2T + L + Offset

[Greg J]

Kobus,

I haven't installed mine yet (maybe this weekend), but I just ordered two, 6 foot sections from McMaster Carr. They come apart, so I'll use the un-used Y axis chain on the X axis chain. If, I'm short, I'll order what I need. For me, McMaster has been great on delivery times.

On another note: There is an enormous amount of information here. One of the most time consuming aspects of this project was re-locating information on this forum. In the early stages, I would read something, that would pertain to some aspect further down the line. Well, that part of the project would come up, and I would spend hours trying to find that one post. I finally got to the point, that the first time I read a post, I would print it and file it. Sounds simple, but I had to learn the hard way. :)

[Kobus_Joubert]

Thanks guys, I will wait for the actual measurements from J.R.

That file must be huge by now Greg....tell us how many pages already.
The search facility helps, but still there are soooooo much.

What about a nice big fat glossy book Mr. Gerald....that will be something.

[Doug_Ford]

Kobus,

I'll measure mine also this evening and post what I find.

[Greg J]

I lost count of the pages.

I keep a file for every component. I put all the file in one of those plastic containers for files and easy transport between house and shop.

Also, have binder for all drawings.

I'll post pictures of progress Sunday evening.

[Doug_Ford]

Kobus,

I used 77.5" on the X-axis and 51" on the Y-axis. I think I could have used a bit less if necessary. Good luck.

Doug

[J.R. Hatcher]

Kobus I used 4' of the small and 6' of the large. Go here for all the details if you have Excel.

http://www.msnusers.com/NCMechMate/Documents/MechMate%20Purchased%20Parts.xls

[gmessler]

Thanks J.R. and Doug.....I've been milling over those sizes for a while now. :D

[Kobus_Joubert]

Thanks you guys, this will give me something to work from.

[Belli]

Hi Kobus,

I buy mine from Cavotec in Benoni, a 25x40mm is around R260/m and I am very fond of this one, it doesn't fall apart like the IGUS one does after a great deal of use.

RS Components also stock the same brand:
http://za.rs-online.com/web/search/searchBrowseAction.html?method=getProduct&R=4546314
http://za.rs-online.com/web/search/searchBrowseAction.html?method=getProduct&R=0599516

Cheers,
Greg :cool:

[Gerald D]

Greg, on quality, I'll take the Igus over Cavotec's chain any day. We want a 75 to 100mm bend radius - those two rs references are for 40mm radius.

[Kobus_Joubert]

Quote received today......

ONE METER OFF 0450.40 KR 094 KABELSCHLEPP CHAIN
BENDING RADIUS 3.7”

Price: R 98.00 Nett Excl Vat

ONE SET OFF END CONNECTORS

Price: R 15.00 Nett Excl Vat

[Gerald D]

Kobus, that quote is too good to be believed! Grab it with both hands!

I'll swop you a set of V-tyres for a set of those chains ;)

[smreish]

buy it now. That's better than I can get it for in the states!

[Kobus_Joubert]

Hi Gerald,

I have just confirmed with the supplier. The price / meter is correct. Only full meter lengts must be ordered.
If you need the contact number, phone or e-mail and I will make it available.

Thinking about wheels for chain.

[Alan_c]

I found this interesting idea (http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=25257&page=9) over at the Zone, might be interesting to try as a first project or if the budget is tight, from post 105 onwards

[sailfl]

Cable Chain Purchase

I am not starting my build yet but I was in Skycraft located in Winter Park, FL and found Igus cable chain. It is not the exact size Gerald has recommended but I only paid $7.50 for each 24" length. It was such a good deal I figure it will work. I think I picked up enough chain for about $57.

They have two sizes, the Larger is 250.05.055 and the small size is 250.03.055.

They only have a small quantity. You can not buy it online but you must call them. 407 628-5634. If you need some help, send me a PM.

Good luck.

[Gerald D]

Nils,

What is the . . .
- inner height
- inner width
- bend radius
. . . . . of those chains?

[sailfl]

Gerald

250.05.0550
Inner Width Outer Width Radius Curve Height H Curve Length K Weight
2.24 in 2.87 in 2.16 in 5.51 in 10.87 in 0.61 lbs/ft

250.03.0550
Inner Width Outer Width Radius Curve Height H Curve Length K Weight
1.5 in 2.13 in 2.16 in 5.51 in 10.87 in 0.55 lbs/ft

From the Igus website....

Some of them have end pieces. I have to buy one male piece to connect the end to the MM.

[Gerald D]

The 2.16" radius is rather small - makes for a rough running chain and cables which may be bent too much.

[sailfl]

Gerald,

Thanks for the input. I will try them when I build my machine. I don't think I will get burnt on this. If they are not useable I can sell them on ebay for 7.50 a ft and get my money back.

Everyone else: I would suggest you not use them based on Gerald's experience.

[Gerald D]

Nils, I wouldn't be so negative about them - they could very well work out for you and others. In the first post of this thread I motivated why I was shooting for a certain spec, and it's my job to take a fairly "conservative" middle-of-the-road approach. :)

[sailfl]

Gerald,

I talked to Sean today and mentioned them. He said he saw them at Skycraft also but thought they would have a radius problem. He thinks I should take them back. Since I got them for such a good price I am thinking of holding on to them. I know I can sell them on ebay for much more than I paid. I may give them a test.

I appreciate your input. I know you were looking out for my best interest... I want to have the best machine I can build.

Thanks

[Roadkill_321]

I have been shopping around trying to find a good source of cable chain in Canada and I think I have found one.
http://www.ontor.com/ They are a distributor for Murrplastik cable chain, now I don't know much about the quality of this particular brand of cable chain, but just from looking at the catalog I think it looks OK to me. The price is very comparable to other suppliers in the US for the particular chain I ordered. The staff that I was in contact with in Edmonton,AB was very helpful and courteous too which always helps.
The chain I ordered was #30003709500 (1.46"/37mm inside width, 3.74"/95mm bend radius), 10' long. I hope this information can help someone. :)

John

[Gerald D]

That part number corresponds to my first post - Murrplastik is a good brand.

[dmoore]

McMAster-Carr (http://www.mcmaster.com/nav/enter.asp?pagenum=1452) 4516T22 0.98H x 1.5W x 3.94R (the next smaller Radius that they stock (4516T21 at 2.2") is too small) $73.80 per 6' without end brackets - $9.68 per set of brackets (4556T56)

I used the cable chain from McMaster-Carr, part #4516T22 for both my X and Y. A few notes on it:


McMaster Part #4516T22 is really Igus Part #200.03.100
I'd recommend purchasing 4516T25 (2.24"w instead of the 1.50) for the X axis if you have additional cables for proxies coming back and it would help it lay a bit better on the cable supports
With the 3.94" radius, it does bend up a bit as Gerald says (see photo below) on the Y Axis. The total height from the cable support to the top of the y-car is 7", the loop height is 9.25", hence the bulge at the top.
On the X Axis, you will need to move up the mount point and lower the brackets (I have 7" tall main beams) - see photos below. If you don't move them down, the chain will push up the gantry when it gets to the end. The cable bulge pushes up on the chain support tray.
Ideally (as mentioned by Gerald), the radius should be closer to 3" than 4"
I ordered 12' of cable chain and used 11' for my 49"x97" table


I would recommend that the legs on the X brackets should be extended another 1-1.5" to allow for main beams that may be less than 8" in height.

Hope this helps...

[Robert M]

Hi David,
Thanks for your post, recommendation & comments ! Your fast !!
Question arouses after David’s comments : McMaster Part #4516T22 is really Igus Part #200.03.100...
Can anyone explain why it’s recommended 3.94 radius if purchasing from McMaster-Carr & 2.95R if w/Igus since both seems the same ?
Has any other one had problems with Igus 2.95R :confused:

To David : From what I can see from the tech drawing at those respected manufacturer, the radius is the dim from the center line not the total outside height !. If you select say the Igus w/100mm (3.94”) radi #200-05, the actual total outside height of this radi will be 235mm(9.25”) You MUST take in account the thickness (height) of the E-chain !!
Same for the Igus w/75mm radi = Total H = 185mm (7.28”) !!!
The radiuses given dim are the values from center thickness of those E-chains.
I would recommend that the legs on the X brackets should be extended another 1-1.5" to allow for main beams that may be less than 8" in height.
David, I believe there would be No need if you get 75mm (2.95”)R ?

Keep up those exiting pics & update posts as I ( and other I may assume) enjoy them very much !
Amicalement, Robert ;)

[dmoore]

To David : From what I can see from the tech drawing at those respected manufacturer, the radius is the dim from the center line not the total outside height !. If you select say the Igus w/100mm (3.94”) radi #200-05, the actual total outside height of this radi will be 235mm(9.25”) You MUST take in account the thickness (height) of the E-chain !!
Same for the Igus w/75mm radi = Total H = 185mm (7.28”) !!!
The radiuses given dim are the values from center thickness of those E-chains.

I think it's easier to just ignore the radius (other than to ensure the turn isn't to tight for the cables in it) - look at the "Loop Height" listed in McMaster's spec table - it lists the total overall height when the chain is at it's maximum internal radius and both "legs" are parallel to one another. For the Y-axis, this should be 7" + the height of the cable chain itself. So, ideally you want an overall height of 8" when using a 1" high/tall chain.

Does anyone know where to purchase the Igus 20-2-075-0 Gerald recommends?

[Robert M]

Does anyone know where to purchase the Igus 20-2-075-0 Gerald recommends?
David,

It has been change to new Igus numbers since last Gerald original post
Look up for the E2 series, 200/240/250 section
#200-03 is the 38w x 25h inside dim [1.50" x 0.98"] x the radi you want (75mm best).
The #200-05 is the next step, 57w x 25h [2.24"x 0.98")
The 200 series is a non snap-open chain. If you want open individual tabs, #240 for inner radius opening & #250 for the outer opening. See IGUS (http://www.igus.com/echain.asp)web for more detail.
Hope this can help, Robert

[Gerald D]

With the 3.94" radius, it does bend up a bit . . . . .

. . . . . .that is why I said:

The Mamba brackets are designed for 75mm [3"] radius chain. If using 100mm [4"] radius chain, the bracket on the y-car needs to be slightly bent up or a spacer must be put under the end of the chain where it connects to the bracket.

In your case, bend the nose of bracket 10 60 325 up at an angle, to even out the y-chain.

[Gerald D]

Does anyone know where to purchase the Igus ******* Gerald recommends?

I thought that Igus has on-line shopping in the US? Recall somebody mentioning that they had a successful direct purchase. . . .

[ekdenton]

I used the Mcmaster part # that was recomended, i must have gotten the larger radius also because I am at about 10" outside to outside on the tightest bend I could get. It wasn't any problem to fix though I just lowered my x chain brackets by adding a small plate, and I lowered my y support bracket slightly and bent the zcar bracket for the y chain. All my chains now look nice and parallel with the Mechmate. I don't think anyone that didn't know, would think it was designed to be like that anyway.

1514

[Gerald D]

For the S.Africans:

The local cable chain suppliers are ranging between R544 and R674 per meter. (That includes Kobus's Magquip connection for Kabelschlep in Roodepoort). McMaster-Carr is selling 6ft lengths at $75, which translates to R328 per meter. A huge difference!

http://za.rs-online.com/web/ has some attractive prices, even though it is a mail order house operating out of England . . . . .

[lunaj76]

Copied from a personal thread:

We got the chains mounted . . . . .

2548

2549

[Gerald D]

Nice pictures!

Maybe I made this too tight . . . . .
2552

Can't remember what my thinking was there, but it looks like the screw head is going to foul with the chain. Is anyone having an issue over here?

[Gerald D]

Because you are using a small radius cable chain, you don't have much other option for attaching it to the y-car. (Mostly we would use a bigger radius chain and attach on top). But, you can drill some holes in your Y-car (near where you have the marked A) and pass the cables inside of the Y-car as soon as they leave the chain.

[lunaj76]

Gerald,
Do you think a hole in the car is better than a hole through the bracket and then into the two holes on top of the car? Astheticly I like your idea better. We liked the look of small radius chain and used the same width for both. Might have been better to have used narrower chain for y.

2553

[Gerald D]

Okay, that screw head does clear okay.

That part of the Y-car can be drilled for the cables. I might even add some holes there on the laser cuts.

The smaller radius cable chain should be okay. It is decided by the minimum radius of the stuff you want to put into it. That might include hoses and thick cables for serious spindles and/or air/sand blasters.

[Valdir Fernandes da Cruz]

Hi all, see in the link below, some information about cable chain.
Valdir

[Valdir Fernandes da Cruz]

Sorry, you can see the cable chain demonstration below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAPmZVW5TLU&feature=channel
Valdir

[Gerald D]

Valdir, I would like to see what happens when that cable chain is bumped from the side with a sheet of plywood. The nylon cable chains will snap open, but they can be clipped together again with no permanent damage.

[J.R. Hatcher]

Confession time. I made some cable chain and it looked almost identical to the one in the video, but just couldn't make myself use it. I reasoned my $20,000 MechMate deserved the extra $150.:eek:

[servant74]

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=25257&page=13
Are have a DIY design for making chain. They have a DXF for a couple of
different designs if anyone is interested.

[Valdir Fernandes da Cruz]

Hi Gerald,
MDF is not really a good material, if necessary, we can to use other material,
Valdir

[MariusL]

I found a local chap (South Africa) that makes a chain that cost effective and available. He only makes one size but it is good enough for most machines. The best is that it only cost R250-00 per meter. His name is Raymond, 083 283 6715.

[MariusL]

Gerald,
I have purchased some of the chain from Raymond and I am very happy with it. The radius is actually 75mm, just right for the MM.

[kanankeban]

I bought the IGUS cable carriers from www.reidsupply.com (http://www.reidsupply.com) cheaper than mcmaster (about 30 dlls less), the only turnoaround was that they didnt have them in stock, 2 weeks wait, not problem at all with them, they appreciated my business, I got a thanks email, and a invitation for a contest for some free stuff, It made me feel better after mcmaster insident :).Only two things more from macmaster I wish, tension springs, and gas springs, but sure ill get them from some one else ...

[buibui]

I ordered my chains today directly from Igus. Their prices seemed reasonable (about $3-4 less than McMaster) and they had in stock the smaller 2.95 radius, which I had a hard time finding elsewhere. I ordered the following:

200.03.075 (1.5 x .98 ID, 2.95R) $10.59/ft
200.05.100 (2.24 x .98 ID, 3.94R) $11.66/ft

I couldn't find a link to order through their website, but I ordered over the phone at 1-800-521-2747. Not sure if they ship internationally.

[J.R. Hatcher]

John did you order the cable ends?

[buibui]

I almost forgot but the Igus rep reminded me. They were $11-12/set...oddly a dollar more than McMaster.

I got the pivoting kind of bracket...is this correct?

[J.R. Hatcher]

You just need some way to connect the ends to the metal, they should work fine.

[sailfl]

John,

Yes, they pivot. They will work fine.

I am surprised that from the factory they were less expensive. They usually are more. They must be working on selling product.

[PEU]

I was quoted $125/meter+tax (3.3feet) from the local igus distributor for 200.03.075, I find the quote a ripoff. So I started looking in USA, found that this model is no longer listed at their site, the suggested replacements are:

2500.03.075.0 E-Chains® Series 2500
2030.12PZB Mounting bracket, complete set incl. tiewrap plates 2030.34PZB Mounting bracket, complete set incl. tiewrap plates
2500.05.075.0 E-Chains® Series 2500
2050.12PZB Mounting bracket, complete set with chain tiewrap plate
2050.34PZB Mounting bracket, complete set with chain tiewrap plate

Im waiting for their quote.

[PEU]

Received the quote, the chains are USD13ish/feet ex-factory Igus USA, but in the meantime I found a local source for the CPS cablechain (the one with the blue dots on the side). I was quoted USD37/meter, local price and inmediate availability!! Model CPS036N.035 and CPS036N.055

Here is the datasheet (http://www.varitel.com/ftp/cadenas.pdf)


I have one question, given the choice of 70 or 90mm bending radius, what would be better?

[smreish]

Pablo,
90 would be my choice....That puts the overall loop size about 200mm or 8" Any tighter you might start breaking cable fiber.

[lumberjack_jeff]

I was going to check into cps cable chain, but their website is listed as "dangerous" by google.

[PEU]

I received the same warning, but Im brave and I went ahead, nothing happened :) (I have nod32 antivirus up to date just in case)

[Red_boards]

So what are the things to look for in chain quality?
I imagine that you get what you pay for, so most here are running to the reassurance of the brand, like IGUS.
I assume that the chain should move freely (some I've looked at don't).

Does anyone have ideas on how to stress test the chains in the store without giving the salesman heart failure?

[PEU]

AFAIK in the way we use the chains you need to be sure they stay rigid and self supported and do not bend over themselves, because this type of chain is not designed to do that, if that happens and you move back, it would destroy the chain.

Take a look at page 15 of the datasheet I posted earlier, for the CPS036N chain, it self supports to a length of 2 meters (6.3ft) maximum and a load of 2.5kg (about 5lbs)

I can imagine 2 o 3 things to test, but I don't know if the dealer would be willing to do them :)

[Red_boards]

Thanks Pablo,
That helps. I can check bend radius and self supporting and dimensions.
I can also do a "bite test" for material quality ;-) and check tendency for sideways bend

[fanefane]

I bought the E-chain from Claudia. The quality is good though (http://www.driver-motor.com/Products.aspx).

[Polder48]

Stefan, can't find the info for the E-chain on the weblink. How did you get the info?

Polder

[fanefane]

I bought more from them and received an offer. I managed to mount the E-chain. You should ask via mail sales@driver-motor.com .

[pblackburn]

Question on 10 60 315 and 10 60 325?

Should not the height of the mounting plate be extended to match the loop height to match the post by Gerald in thread http://www.mechmate.com/forums/showthread.php?t=498
The loop height is 9.25 inches and if you mount it on top of the 10 60 325 the placement of the bolt holes is at the bottom radius of the 2x4 tubing. So wouldn't it be better to to extend the mounting height of 10 60 315 or place an offset in 10 60 325? This would add an additional bend process and recalculation of the blank length for that part.
I am using the Igus McMaster Carr 4516T22

[Gerald D]

You don't want 315 to be mounted too low on the gantry because it will protrude too much into your workspace under your gantry.

325 can simply be creased to tip its nose up at an angle, and that lifts the first link of the e-chain quite a lot.

[pblackburn]

Gerald,
I noticed on 10 00 000 that it shows an offset in 10 60 325 but the profile does not have that. Since I elected to use the Igus with the 9.5 loop height I will have to raise up the 10 60 315 1" with cylindrical columns and longer bolts. This way the track will not be lower than the gantry tubing. I only thought it was interesting it was shown in one area but not the other and would be most consistant when looking at the drawings. Maybe only a note would be needed on the drawing to adjust the blank length for 10 60 315 to match the offset that would be needed for the cable chain you select.

[Gerald D]

Bend up at the red line

13226

[andrewuk]

Hi does anyone know what length cable chain is needed fo a 10x5 table...thanks

[andrewuk]

Think i found the answer :)

[smreish]

Andrew,
The formulae is on most cable chain websites.
For me, I always did 1/2 of distance traveled + 1/2 Diameter of bend radius + 24"

That so:
If you have a 10' table.
Actual measured 1/2 length of travel + (1/2 bend radius of 12" x 3.14) + 24" = 102.84" +/- 6" based on your spoil board overtravel area. Most 5' x 10' tables actually travel slightly more. plus end brackets.

Or,
I just order the length of each access and it works with spare links.

[andrewuk]

Thanks sean