RKG0016 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKG0016 is an encoder feedback cable manufactured by Bosch Rexroth Indramat in the RKG Encoder Cables series. The assembly links an incremental or absolute encoder on a motor to the corresponding drive controller so that position data can be transmitted in automated machinery. Its controller end uses a D-Sub 15-pin socket, while the encoder end is equipped with an M23 17-pin socket for direct connection to standard Rexroth drive components. This layout supports use on motion systems that depend on stable encoder communication between the motor and the control hardware.

The cable has a flex life of 5,000,000 bending cycles when it is guided correctly in a cable track. In fixed routing, the minimum bend limit is 5 x D, and in dynamic motion the limit increases to 7.5 x D, helping protect the conductor bundle during repeated movement. The outer jacket has a diameter of 10.0 mm, which gives the cable a compact profile for drag-chain clamps and cable guides. That jacket is made of PUR, a material chosen for resistance to abrasion, cutting oils, and continuous flexing. Inside, the cable uses a construction of 3 x 0.25 mm² conductors, three pairs of 0.25 mm² conductors, and two 1.0 mm² power cores to separate encoder channels from auxiliary voltages.

Control circuits can be energized up to 300 V along the two 1.0 mm² cores, while encoder signals run on the smaller pairs whose loop resistance is limited to 83.0 ?/km. The heavier conductors have a resistance of only 19.3 ?/km, which helps reduce voltage drop over longer cable runs. A flame-retardant sheath formulation is used, and the cable is halogen-free, which helps limit the release of toxic gases during an electrical fire. This cable is used in machine tools, packaging lines, and automated storage systems where flexible routing, clean jacket materials, and dependable feedback transmission are required.