Energy supply systems for telescopes and antennas

The combination of solid steel construction, precision engineering and sophisticated electronics turn modern telescopes, observatories and antennas into high-tech machines. Telescope manufacturers around the world have been relying on energy chains, cables and complete solutions from igus® for over 20 years. In elevation, azimuth and GIR, they ensure a reliable energy supply for many years.

Advantages of igus® energy chain systems:

Lightweight plastic chains, 43 % less weight than steel drag chains
Low friction and low drive force, wear-resistant and low vibration, easy handling on the construction site
Worldwide service and warranty
Easy co-operation with experienced telescopic specialists

Elevation/Altitude

The adjustment of the elevation angle in telescopes and antennas is referred to as elevation or altitude. Specifically, this involves aligning mirrors or telescopes at the correct angle. Energy chains are used to guide the cable in vertical movement.

energy chain E4.1

Our standard for almost all applications
Robust, low-noise and modular
Easy to install and fill

More information about the E4.1 series

Azimuth

In addition to the vertical angle, rotation in the horizontal plane is the decisive movement in telescopes and antennas. This rotary movement is known as azimuth. Simple rotation systems from igus® enable rotation angles of up to 600°. In this example, two reverse chains are shown on two levels.

Reverse bend radius system

igus® has been working on systems for the circular movement of energy chains for many years. Our reverse bend radius systems have proven themselves worldwide and in numerous industries as a solution for rotation angles of up to 600°.

Learn more

Azimuth/GIR

Below the azimuth, in the "belly" of the telescope, all the cables of the system come together. This special pivot point is also known as the azimuth or GIR. Managing the amount of cable safely and reliably here is a major challenge. This is why the energy chain and cables are often distributed over several levels. In this example, there are three levels, each with two chains running into each other.

Multi Rotation Module system

For applications with a rotation angle of over 600°, we have developed the Multi Rotation Module. Here, the rotary movement is extended to additional levels. This allows rotation angles of up to 900° to be achieved.

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Other application areas

In addition to altitude, azimuth and GIR, which are among the greatest challenges for energy chains in telescopes, there are also other possible applications. For example, moving cables can also be found in the rotary movement of the usually gigantic domes or in the closing systems of opening flaps. Here, too, our energy chains offer protection and at the same time ensure smooth and easy running.

Engineering projects and special solutions

We are not only at your side as a reliable supplier of chains and cables, but also support you in the design of the overall system. Our engineering team has many years of experience in equipping telescopic systems worldwide. From the first sketch to commissioning on site, we are there for you.

Learn more about our services

Success story

Rotation module for telescope in Hawaii

The Gemini Telescope at an altitude of 4200 metres on the Mauna Kea volcano in Hawaii: a reliable energy supply was required for a rotation module with a rotation angle of 540°, which is earthquake-proof and has high UV and ozone resistance. The azimuth was equipped with an e-chain® 640.600/600.400/1800.0. An e-chain® 5050.30.150/1825.0 is used in the mirror, which can be swivelled through 90°.

The e-chain® supplied by us in 1999 is still in use today.

Contacto

¿Preguntas o información sobre productos? Por favor, póngase en contacto con:

igus® México.+52 728 2843185 Correo

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