OFE M Flexible Optical Fibre Festoon Cable (OFE) for Cranes and E-Chain Systems

Introduction

RHEYCORD-OFE M is a high-performance flexible optical fibre cable engineered for reliable data transmission in demanding industrial environments. Designed specifically for festoon systems and energy chain (e-chain) applications, this cable eliminates electromagnetic interference risks while ensuring stable signal integrity.

It is widely deployed on cranes, material handling equipment, and automated systems, where continuous movement, torsion, and mechanical stress require robust and durable cable solutions.

Key Applications

RHEYCORD-OFE M is optimized for dynamic environments where traditional copper cables may suffer from electromagnetic disturbances.

Typical applications include:

• Festoon systems on overhead cranes

• Energy chains (e-chains) in automation systems

• Port and container handling equipment

• Mining and heavy-duty industrial installations

• Data transmission systems in electromagnetically sensitive environments

Core advantage:
✔ Transmission without electromagnetic smog (EMI-free communication)

Cable Design and Construction

The cable incorporates advanced materials and structural elements to ensure durability, flexibility, and signal integrity.

Optical Fibre Elements (OFE)

• Fibre types:

  • Single-mode: 9/125 μm

  • Multi-mode: 50/125 μm, 62.5/125 μm

• Fibres are:

  • Laid inside a jelly-filled high-performance thermoplastic tube

  • Protected against moisture and mechanical stress

Strain Relief System

• Constructed with high-end synthetic rovings

• Ensures:

  • Effective load distribution

  • Protection against tensile stress during operation

Reinforcement Layer

• Braided reinforcement using:

  • High tensile strength synthetic threads

• Provides:

  • Excellent resistance to mechanical fatigue

  • Long service life under continuous motion

Outer Sheath

• Material: Rubber compound 5GM5

• Standard: DIN VDE 0207 Part 21

• Colour: Orange

Key benefits:

• High flexibility

• Strong abrasion resistance

• Environmental durability

Identification and Marking

• Cable marking format:

  • RHEYCORD-OFE M

  • Number of fibres

  • Manufacturer identification

  • Year of production

Fibre Identification Standard

• Complies with DIN VDE 0888

Standards and Compliance

RHEYCORD-OFE M is designed in accordance with recognized industrial standards:

• DIN VDE 0168 – Industrial cable requirements

• DIN VDE 0888 – Optical fibre identification

• DIN VDE 0207 Part 21 – Rubber sheath material

• IEC 60332-1 – Flame retardancy

Mechanical Performance

This cable is engineered to withstand extreme mechanical stress in dynamic applications.

Torsional Resistance

• Torsional stress capacity:

  • ±120° per meter

Mechanical Testing

The cable undergoes rigorous testing, including:

• Alternating bending test

• Reversed bending test

• Roller bending test

• Torsional resistance test

Travelling Speed

• Suitable for:

  • Festoon and e-chain systems up to 240 m/min

• Higher speeds available upon request

Chemical and Environmental Resistance

RHEYCORD-OFE M is built to operate reliably in harsh industrial environments.

Key properties:

• Oil-resistant

• Moisture-resistant

• UV-resistant

• Ozone-resistant

• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use

Fire Performance

• Flame-retardant according to:

  • IEC 60332-1

Electrical and Thermal Properties

Although primarily a fibre optic cable, thermal performance remains critical for safe operation.

Operating Temperature Range

Key Advantages

• EMI-free data transmission using optical fibre

• High flexibility for dynamic applications

• Excellent tensile strength due to reinforced structure

• Robust environmental resistance (oil, UV, moisture, ozone)

• Flame-retardant design for enhanced safety

• High-speed operation up to 240 m/min

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why choose optical fibre over copper in festoon systems?

Optical fibres are immune to electromagnetic interference, ensuring stable and high-speed data transmission in environments with heavy electrical equipment.

Q2: Can this cable be used outdoors?

Yes. The cable is designed with UV, moisture, and ozone resistance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Q3: What is the maximum mechanical load capacity?

The cable supports a maximum tensile load of 800 N, suitable for most festoon and e-chain applications.

Q4: Is the cable suitable for high-speed crane systems?

Yes. It supports travelling speeds up to 240 m/min, with higher speeds available upon request.

Q5: What fibre types are available?

• Multi-mode: 50/125 μm, 62.5/125 μm

• Single-mode: 9/125 μm

RHEYCORD-OFE M is a specialized flexible optical fibre cable designed for high-demand industrial motion systems. Its robust mechanical construction, excellent environmental resistance, and EMI-free transmission make it an ideal solution for modern automated handling systems, cranes, and industrial data networks.

For operations requiring high reliability, durability, and signal integrity under continuous movement, this cable represents a proven and efficient solution.