Energy supply and cables in confined space in tanker with telescopic crane

Flexible e-chain and chainflex cables work in the telescopic boom of this airfield tanker.

These vehicles refuel aircraft at airports around the world. So as to be able to supply the various types of aircraft, the crane boom must be as flexible as possible in terms of height and length. It also has to be able to swivel. Furthermore, it needs to be accommodated on the vehicle itself in the most space-saving way possible. Our lightweight and flexible e-chains guide the pressure and control cables to the refuelling coupling in all weather conditions.

Profile

What was needed: E2/000 series energy chains, chainflex control cables
Requirements: flexible cable-guiding solution that can be used in particularly confined installation spaces
Industry: Aviation, aerospace
Success for the customer: The E2 chain is suitable for confined spaces and combines this with high robustness, quiet operation and a long service life. Just like the chain, the chainflex cables also allow the tightest bend radii and a high degree of flexibility.

Problem

KAR Kunz Aviation Refueling GmbH is a manufacturer that specialises in airfield fuel tankers with tank and hydrant operation. Until now, it was common for the hoses and cables on the special vehicles to be used unguided. A six-stage telescopic crane was installed on this tanker, which has the advantage of high flexibility during refuelling. Not only can the boom be moved precisely to the aircraft to be refuelled with the filler neck. It is also particularly flexible in terms of height and length and can be swivelled, making refuelling quick and easy. However, the standard delivery for guiding the cable did not meet the expectations of the KAR designers, as it was only available in standard widths for guiding heavy hydraulic hoses. They were therefore looking for a better cable guide that was able to follow all the movements of the flexible crane boom and could be installed in the tightest installation spaces of this very space-saving design.

Solution

The KAR designers, who were looking for a new solution for the cable guidance, ultimately decided on using several energy chains. Specifically, our e-chain from the E2/000 series with chainflex control cables from the CF10 series and a pneumatic hose are used in the application. The E2 chain solution is suitable for confined spaces and is also very robust, quiet and durable. Assembly and loading have been simplified by various elements such as a folding mechanism for the hinged crossbars and a sophisticated interior separation with separators within the chain. Like the chain itself, the chainflex cables in the chains allow for the tightest bend radii and can therefore be used in the flexible crane boom in confined spaces.

Overview of E2/000 series energy chains

Overview of chainflex cables