RKG0013 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKG0013 is an encoder feedback cable manufactured by Bosch Rexroth Indramat in the RKG Encoder Cables series. It serves as the flexible communication path between position encoders mounted on servomotors and the corresponding drive electronics in automated machinery. By transmitting incremental or absolute position data together with auxiliary supply conductors, the cable permits reliable closed-loop control across moving axes such as pick-and-place arms, gantry systems, and tooling stages used in high-volume industrial automation.

The mechanical endurance of the assembly is rated for 5,000,000 bending cycles, allowing continuous motion in energy chains without conductor fatigue. A circular sheath diameter of 10.0 mm balances compact routing with adequate cross-sectional area for power and signal pairs. The permitted system potential is 300 V, so low-voltage encoder supplies and reference lines remain within insulation limits. The outer jacket is molded from PUR, giving abrasion resistance and resilience against oils and coolants encountered on machine frames. Signal integrity is protected by a Total Shield that encloses all twisted pairs, minimizing electromagnetic interference during high-speed positioning. The cable is approved for installation inside drag chains, fulfilling dynamic installation requirements.

The internal layout follows 3x0.25 + 3x(2x0.25)StC + 2x1.0 mm², separating feedback pairs from auxiliary power cores to keep crosstalk low while delivering sufficient current to the sensing electronics. At the drive end, a D-Sub 15-Pin (Socket) terminates the conductors, providing a direct plug-in to common Rexroth control units. The motor-side connection is an M23 17-Pin Union Nut (Socket) that locks to the encoder housing with vibration-proof threading. Data are presented over the EN2 interface, enabling differential signal transmission and error-proof detection of encoder pulses even under high accelerations.