RKB0016 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKB0016 is a control cable manufactured by Bosch Rexroth Indramat for the RKB Control Cables series. This pre-assembled line is intended for fieldbus connections between drive controllers and peripheral modules in automated machinery. Its matched connectors and consistent electrical characteristics help preserve signal quality on PROFIBUS and similar system buses. In motion systems with continual flexing, the cable links sensors, I/O blocks, and drives while supporting reliable routing through dynamic cable chains. Its preassembled format also helps keep connector orientation consistent across repeated machine modules. It can also be used where bus communication must remain stable near motor power wiring and frequent axis movement.

RKB0016 is the Basic model, indicating a standard conductor cross-section and jacket profile. As a Ready-Made assembly, it arrives terminated, so no on-site crimping or pin assignment is required. The cable is a System Bus Cable, so its twisted pairs and shielding support differential communication protocols. End A uses an M8 A-coded 4-pin plug, while end B uses an M8 A-coded 4-pin socket, which allows straightforward daisy-chain extension without adapter blocks. During operation, the copper bundle withstands 5 million flex cycles in energy-chain routing when the dynamic bend radius is kept at 7.5 x D.

Installation outside moving sections allows a tighter bend radius of 5 x D because torsional stress is lower. Electrical integrity is maintained from -30 °C to 80 °C, which allows use in cold production areas as well as warmer machine spaces. For stored spares, the same lower limit applies, while the upper storage temperature is 40 °C to help protect the jacket before use. One cable run can therefore pass from a stationary control area into a moving machine section without changing cable type.