RKG0048 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKG0048 encoder cable is supplied by Bosch Rexroth Indramat under the RKG Encoder Cables series. It is an interconnection component that links motor-mounted feedback devices to drive controllers, transmitting position and diagnostic signals through a matched conductor layout that helps maintain electromagnetic compatibility. Within industrial automation systems, this cable routes encoder data between moving machine elements and stationary control cabinets, enabling closed-loop motion control in packaging machines, gantries, and material-handling axes. Its construction supports dynamic routing inside energy chains and cable carriers commonly found on multi-axis systems.

Mechanical endurance is supported by a flex rating of 5,000,000 bending cycles, allowing continuous operation in high-duty drag-chain applications. The overall sheath measures 9.7 mm in diameter, providing a balance between torsional compliance and tensile strength while keeping routing space minimal. Signal entry at the motor side uses an M23 17-Pin (socket) connector, and controller-side termination uses a D-Sub 15-Pin (socket). This pin assignment matches Rexroth encoder modules without adapter hardware. For power to sensor electronics, four supply cores of 4x1.0 mm² are included, giving low-resistance paths that limit voltage drop over long runs.

The remaining conductor set consists of 3x(2x0.25 mm²)+3x0.25 mm² twisted pairs that carry incremental channels, serial data, and reference signals with controlled impedance. An outer jacket colored RAL 2003 orange improves visibility inside cable trays, and its matte PUR compound resists oils and coolant splash while staying flexible at low temperatures. Continuous service is approved up to a conductor temperature of 80 °C, so the cable can share routing with drives that dissipate moderate heat without prematurely aging the insulation. The jacket surface also helps the cable move smoothly in carrier systems during repeated motion.