Four Essentials for Selecting Cable Chains

1. Four Key Factors for Cable Chain Selection: inner height, inner width, bending radius, and load capacity

The selection is based on the actual number of cables used. The bending radius is determined by the actual bending radius of the cables in operation, and is generally selected according to the bent sheet metal of the cable chain.

Note: Many users may have doubts about the cable chain bending radius. This relates to the structural relationship between chain links. The radius is mainly limited by the clearance of the concave-convex fit between links and has no necessary connection with the total length of the chain.

2. Cable Chain InstallationSecure with flat-head screws to avoid interference. A sheet metal plate is usually installed at the bottom as a base (typically designed as a U-shaped groove, which should be wider than the cable chain during design).

Two critical parameters must be noted during installation:

• Straight overhead installation & safe sag: During operation, the upward deflection, suspension, or downward sag distance shall be less than 1/2 of the chain link height.
• Safe sag: The sag distance shall be greater than 1/2 of the chain link height but less than the minimum bending radius of the cable chain series.These values are specified in the selection manual; ensure operation stays within these ranges.

If the selected cable chain cannot meet the required sag length for long-stroke applications, consider the following solutions:

• Select a heavier-duty / more rigid cable chain
• Add supports in the overhead section (may reduce speed and increase noise; consult the manufacturer for details)
• Adopt a multi-chain or nested cable chain arrangement
• Design for gliding operation, a common method for long strokes, usually used with guide channels
• Use a gliding cable chain system

Additional selection considerations:

• Connector structure (with or without comb plates for cable bundling)
• Semi-enclosed or fully enclosed design
• Cable chain opening direction (inner radius opening or outer radius opening)
• Whether dividers are required

4. Cable Chain Operation ModesHorizontal overhead operation, gliding operation, vertical operation, spiral operation, etc.

5. Cable Chain Length CalculationSelection of bending sheet metalGenerally, the bending sheet metal is related to cable durability: more durable cables allow a smaller bending radius.

Note: Select a cable chain with a suitable bending radius based on the cable bending radius, using the following approximate conversion:

• Domestic cables: approx. 8–10 × cable diameter
• Imported cables: approx. 6 × cable diameter
• Hydraulic hoses: approx. 12 × hose diameter
• Pneumatic hoses: approx. 10–12 × hose diameter

Do not fully occupy the internal space; reserve approximately 10% clearance. Also allow a 10% length margin for cables.