igus Adds 600-Degree Robot Cable Chain

Single-source brief: igus says its new twisterchain manages cables through rotations above 600 degrees.

What Changed

igus has launched a self-supporting twisterchain energy chain for compact industrial robots.

The company says the system supports rotations above 600 degrees. It is aimed at cable management during fast robot motion.

The chain sits in a sag around the robot base. As the robot turns, the chain lifts in steps, igus said.

That motion is meant to allow 360-degree rotation without hitting the connector plate.

Where It Could Fit

igus lists Axis 1 on small industrial robots as one use. It also lists Axis 5 on palletizing and handling robots.

The company said compact robots can lack reliable cable supply on their first rotating axis. It also cited hoses that can strike tools on palletizing robots.

The twisterchain is designed for tasks such as palletizing, pick-and-place, assembly, gluing, and screwing.

Operations Questions Still Open

igus said the chain needs only two connection points. The company also said it needs no guide trough or complex alignment.

The chain opens at its inner radius for cable access. It includes removable shelves for cable or hose separation.

Plant teams still need to confirm fit with their robot, cable set, motion path, and tool layout.

No independent confirmation was supplied. Payback time, service life in a plant, and installed cost remain unknown.