The minimum bend radius is based on a temperature range for bending. The larger the radius, the less the cable is stressed. Yes, temperatures have an effect on the bend radius of a cable. Does the bend radius change at extreme temperatures? This means that the cables for moving applications should be supported in such a way that they do not kink due to machine movement. However, sharp bending of cables should also be avoided. Ideally, use the largest possible radius, falling below which can quickly lead to failure. The manufacturer recommends a minimum radius for a reason. The radius chosen for the carrier depends on the cable with the largest diameter. It is important that users always make sure that the correct radius for the carrier is considered in the calculations.

That is why we at igus always test on real applications.Įach manufacturer specifies a minimum bend radius . Chain: This is the radius of the cable carrier specified when it is in continuous movement.There are also standardized tests in the norm. Here, the number of bends is not defined. Flexible: This is the bend radius that the cable occasionally adopts when moving freely.Fixed: The cable is brought into this radius just once for installation and then it no longer moves.We distinguish between 3 different specifications for the bend radius of our chainflex cables: However, we can only answer these questions if we take a closer look at the application and wider circumstances.Īn important factor for the long service life of a cable is the bend radius. The same applies to the cables.Ĭlients often ask us “How much can we bend our cable?” or “How long will our cable last if we bend it like this?”. If I go beyond my maximum bend, it hurts. The smaller I want to make myself, the more flexible my spine needs to be.

The whole thing behaves similar to the human body. The smaller this radius, the more durable the material must be. Here we consider the exact center of the cable, i.e. The bend radius is the radius in which a cable can be bent without getting damaged. We will take a closer look at what that means exactly and why the bend radius is so important.

Time and again we talk about the bend radius of our energy chains and cables. Subtractive Manufacturing & Custom Machining Toggle submenu for: Product Information.

Minimum tube bend radius chart