ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE COVER STORY CABLE CARRIER SYSTEMS
Short lead times, competitive markets and less capacities to do all the work - sound familiar? One increasingly popular option to solve this challenge is outsourcing work packages in order to focus on core competencies. And it can even be the more economical solution as KABELSCHLEPP Metool explain
D
emands and technical parameters in machine and automation are
ever increasing. This also applies to components or assemblies such as cable carrier (drag chain) systems. Cable carrier systems are vital to automated processes - without feeding energy, data and signals, there is no automation.
CABLE CARRIER, LEADS AND PLUG CONNECTIONS A reliable cable carrier system has a variety of different components. For any designer, this means a rather complex process where the individual components must be carefully matched in order to be fully functional and reliable. Ready to install complete systems, as offered by KABELSCHLEPP Metool, can be the solution. The application requirements deployed
here can differ quite a lot in terms of material, size, dynamics, noise levels, or resistance against detrimental environmental conditions. High demands are made on components for power and data transmission, as the entire system depends on the reliability of their operation. Given the numerous individual components involved, design and assembly demand considerable time, thus cost. Processes can be improved by using bespoke, ready to install cable chain systems, such as TOTALTRAX solutions from KABELSCHLEPP Metool. They can relieve the work load considerably - specification, procurement and manufacturing procedures are streamlined, supplier co-ordination is reduced, and warehousing and admin are optimised. A single supplier offering all components can have major benefits for the user - with just one purchase order and one incoming inspection, warehousing storage of components becomes redundant, thus releasing capital tied-up in the warehouse. In many respects man power, time and money are saved. Adding up all individual benefits the savings can be significant.
6 NOVEMBER 2014 | AUTOMATION
Right: ready to install complete systems, as offered by KABELSCHLEPP Metool, can be the solution for complex cable carrier systems
BESPOKE AND AFFORDABLE Any cable carrier will have to match the application to load, tow forces, travel length, speed and manifold other operational characteristics. One of the key selling points of KABELSCHLEPP Metool is the variety of its product portfolio. The Ilkeston-based supplier is able to suggest the optimal specification for the individual application. Any proposal is subsequently driven by the bespoke needs, rather than a material philosophy, product properties or the standard catalogue sizes available. This of course
implies a large variety of sizes, materials and types to be available - whether steel, plastic or hybrid cable carriers, economical or bespoke, customised widths and a variety of properties to match the needs. In combination with
highly flexible cables exclusively developed for drag chain use, the individual energy management system will be designed to suit the requirements.
PLUG-AND-PLAY KABELSCHLEPP Metool also offers a comprehensive and competitive range of cable designed for dynamic automation applications. This also includes finished assemblies including connectors, facilitating a simple and fast installation. In addition to chain, cable and connectors, the cable carrier systems also include accessories such as the dividers for the cable separation, clamping and connection components. The selection of the correct individual accessories that need to be matched to suit is important in order to meet the operating requirements and to achieve the system’s longevity. Finally there is interface management, procurement and professional assembly. All this makes for time consuming and
costly process steps, which can be significantly reduced by using the ready to install TOTALTRAX solution. Design and development, procurement management, accounting, logistics, assembly and quality assurance all benefit from the improved resource. During the initial project kick off, the
investment in planning, control and purchasing is reduced. Working on the brief and implementing the engineering expertise, KABELSCHLEPP Metool will design and propose a system, the resources, interfaces and procurement, logistics and quality requirements. As a consequence, a complex and critical process can be treated as a single item. All specs are summarised against one order and there is a single contact for any potential queries. Assemblies are landed
in time for fitting. From job planning, allocation of numerous individual components, tooling, floor space for storage to assembly, electrical installation, and even unpacking activities, users receive everything from a single source. The delivery scope can typically include suitable transport means which may be required for handling, or even incorporate
bulkheads and housings.
This results in additional synergy effects with regard to procurement budgets. This service is of course subject to economies of scale. However, given the changed market environment, the integrity of the proposal was proven many times for individual automation and machine projects. In industries like crane building, materials handling, for airport devices or in aerospace technology (even in architectural applications), renowned manufacturers already work with TOTALTRAX applications. Using TOTALTRAX, engineers can fully focus on their main task. This creates the potential for a more efficient capacity utilisation, improving the chances of refining products and systems.
KABELSCHLEPP Metool
www.kabelschlepp.co.uk T: 0115 922 5931
Enter 200 /AUTOMATION
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