When performing maintenance or repairs on drilling line, the entire system must be replaced because the cables are sealed together. “With the e-loop, we have developed an alternative to conventional drilling line. The e-loop system for three-dimensional movements combines the advantages of a plastic cable carrier with those of a high-strength pulling cord. The cord absorbs the pulling force and transfers it to the terminals. This means the cables remain completely tension-free,” says Tim Schneebeck, Head of the Oil and Gas Sector at igus GmbH. The modular cable carrier made of high-performance plastics allows for a defined bending radius and is highly resistant to vibrations and impacts thanks to its PU protectors.
The e-loop system successfully replaces drilling line, especially on deep-water oil platforms. However, it is also used for supplying power to ships from shore or in open-pit mining: “We have won many projects. Customers always wanted a complete power supply system with essential VDE and IEC approved tests,” says Schneebeck. “For low-voltage cables designed, for example, for drive systems, we can supply a cable carrier system equipped with chainflex cables and fully tested from the initial production phase. Now we have the perfect solution for high-voltage cables and special connectors,” says Markus Hüffel, Product Manager for pre-assembled cable carriers and pre-assembled cables at igus GmbH. All e-loops can now be supplied with special cables and connectors for supplying power to ships from shore and in explosion-risk areas. These systems are pre-assembled by igus and tested with a 34 kV Megger VLF Sinus. igus pre-assembled systems save approximately 90% of procurement time and 68% of assembly time. Furthermore, igus offers a warranty of up to 36 months, depending on the e-loop configuration.
igus has expanded its e-loop range to include a version with crossbars every two links.
This new, lightweight, and cost-effective version was specifically developed for static applications, such as supplying power to ships from shore or from the mast to the container. The e-loop system is also available with wheels and a clamping module for easy transport within dockside facilities. When the system reaches the end of its useful life, igus recycles it and gives it a second life. In return, the customer receives a voucher for the net weight of the system.
