Smart maintenance solutions for energy chain systems and bearing technology from igus

• What are smart plastics i.Sense and i.Cee?
• These products can be equipped with smart plastics technology
• Industry 4.0: real-world examples
• The knowledge base - questions and answers about smart plastics
• What are the smart plastics success stories from the practical field?
• Click here for the case study
• What new products are there?
• Interested in 3D CAD for smart plastics?
• ​​​​​​​How can I find more information about smart plastics?
• Podcasts on smart plastics​​​​​​​

Condition monitoring is the fastest and simplest way to turn a wide range of igus products into self-monitoring smart plastics products. By attaching sensors, operators can measure forces during operation. If the measured values exceed predefined limits (e.g. sudden peaks caused by a blockage or chain break), the system issues an alarm or at least a notification. Based on this information, a decision can be made about the next steps, (maintenance or shutdown). If required, values outside defined limits can trigger a system shutdown to avoid expensive damage. At igus, we use the term "i.Sense" to refer to condition monitoring.

Predictive maintenance utilises the elements of condition monitoring and, with the help of sensors and software, creates a system that enables a dynamic service life calculation and optimum maintenance times for igus products. This makes predictive maintenance the next step in achieving a comprehensive concept for smart energy supply and bearing technology. This system offers a wide range of designs and a high degree of customisation. The goal is always to maximise system and user safety as well as product life. We at igus call our predictive maintenance system i.Cee (derived from "I see ahead").

Robust and smart - How digitally networked energy chains strengthen STS cranes in the port of Rotterdam.

This case study illustrates how EMO B.V. achieved over 375,000km on its STS cranes with igus chains for cranes®.