Integralkjeder

An integralkjede, often translated as integral chain or continuous chain, is a concept primarily used in German engineering and industrial contexts to describe a continuous, flexible conduit for guiding and protecting electrical cables, hydraulic hoses, and pneumatic lines. These systems are essential in applications where movement is a key factor, such as in robotics, machine tools, automated manufacturing, and material handling systems.

The primary function of an integralkjede is to manage the dynamic movement of these essential conduits, preventing them from snagging, kinking, or becoming damaged due to constant motion. They are designed to absorb the stresses and strains associated with this movement, thereby extending the lifespan of the cables and hoses and ensuring the reliable operation of the machinery. The design typically involves a series of interlocking links or segments that form a flexible, yet robust, enclosure.

Integralkjeder are characterized by their ability to handle complex movements, including linear travel, rotational articulation, and sometimes a combination of both. They are available in a wide range of materials, sizes, and configurations to suit diverse industrial environments and specific application requirements, from cleanroom environments to heavy-duty industrial settings. The selection of an appropriate integralkjede depends on factors such as the number and type of conduits to be managed, the required travel distance, speed of movement, and environmental conditions.