MODERN PPDS EASY 2.0 CONDITION MONITORING SYSTEM FOR ENERGY CHAINS CONTRIBUTES TO OPERATING SAFETY
For about 20 years igus energy chains have been widely accepted as an alternative to festoon systems in safely supplying energy and data for trolleys on STS, RTG, RMG and bulk handling cranes. As modern crane trolleys travel long distances at high speeds up to 270m/min and beyond, all the components, including energy chains, are constantly exposed to high forces. Obviously these forces, harsh environmental conditions and continuous operation are a challenge for every component, even for a maintenance-free design like igus energy chains. If undetected, damage can lead to major failures which require the crane to be taken out of service. Terminal operators want to minimize unexpected crane down time as much as possible — to make these downtimes predictable the condition of all critical components has to be constantly monitored.
In case of igus energy chains the method of choice is to apply the new PPDS (push pull force detection) Easy 2.0 condition monitoring system. This is a special component, developed as part of the modular cable management system.
igus product manager Theo Diehl says: “PPDS Easy 2.0 monitors the chain function and protects the system against unexpected downtimes.” The device is able to read the ‘push- pull forces’ of the moving system electronically, and shut it down safely if certain forces are encountered — for example a mechanical obstruction. If an error occurs, an alarm message is automatically generated. Stored data can also be retrieved and analysed retrospectively for up to three months. The data can track the chain’s operating condition and areas with abnormal variance which can be caused by debris in the guiding trough, for example.
In addition to previous versions the new PPDS easy 2.0 is easier to install due to its plug-in connectors. An integrated display and keypad facilitate programming. The new compact plastic housing is stable, corrosion resistant and enclosed to IP 65 rating.
Worldwide, previous versions of PPDS control systems and the new PPDS easy 2.0 have been successfully preventing down time on STS cranes, RMG cranes, bulk handling cranes, ship yard cranes and other applications for many years.