What Is Cable Drag Chain And How To Design Cable Drag Chain?

Drag chains are used in a wide array of industrial applications. Some of the most common applications include industrial robots, machine tools, automation machinery, vehicle transporters, and cranes, to name a few. Essentially, a cable drag chain supports and protects moving cables. What cables are these and why do they need protection?

Cables used in an industrial environment are often in a mess and are constantly subjected to constant uneven pull and winding. Moreover, the cables are often exposed to harmful oil and corrosive chemicals. Can you visualize what would happen if such cables did not have any protection? Logically, without protection the cables will need persistent replacements due to repeated damages. An electrical cable drag chain offers an effective shield against such adverse conditions. However, the protection offered by a cable drag chain is not adequate in itself.

It is often advisable to use a specific cable drag chain wire that is suited for such high stress situations. It is best to use a flexible drag chain wire because it can withstand the uneven pulls and twists associated with industrial applications. Still, that is not the only thing you need to consider. Here are some things that you need to consider when choosing a suitable cable for a drag chain;

• Your cable choice should have a tensile center
• Your cable choice should have a stranded thin conductor for maximum flexibility
• The insulation material should not stick to each other, must have an inner sheath and a tightly braided shielding layer.

Do you intend to design your own Cable drag Chain?  The process of designing one is complex and time consuming. It would be best to order a custom-made drag chain that suits your specific needs rather than attempting to design one. There are several cable drag chain manufactures that offer custom services. That being said, there is no harm in knowing how to design a drag chain.

First, you need to understand that drag chains are mechanical systems whose sole purpose is to shield different cables in dynamic motion applications. A robot cable is an excellent example of a cable that needs such protection. Logically, a drag chain cable design is undertaken based on the specific application needs. What do I mean?

You need to ascertain inner cable chain space that suits your specific application. Simply put, you need a drag chain that provides adequate space for your cable drag chain wire. To guarantee proper cable functioning and safeguard the cables in the chain system, you need to determine the appropriate chain sizes.  Chain sizes tend to vary depending on the intended applications. It is advisable to cable drag size chart when attempting to pick out a size that suits your specific applications.

There are several cable chain types. Each type is differentiated by the material used in its manufacture, its speed, acceleration, and several other factors.  Currently, nylon cable drag chain and steel cable drag chain are the most common types. Nylon-type cable drag chain is ideal for heavy duty applications.