RKG4201T018 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

The RKG4201T018 is an encoder feedback cable built by Bosch Rexroth Indramat within the RKG Encoder Cables series. It links motor-mounted encoders to drive controllers and carries position signals while withstanding constant motion found on gantries, pick-and-place arms, and other automated axes. The cable is engineered for use in cable drag chains and therefore serves as a flexible interconnect that keeps encoder data accurate even when the machine cycles millions of times.

The outer diameter measures 8.8 mm, providing enough conductor cross-section and shielding without making the harness bulky. Inside the assembly, the conductors use bulk cable type INK0448, a designation that indicates strand count, impedance, and screening geometry for noise-free signal transmission. A sheath of PUR surrounds the bundle; this thermoplastic polyurethane resists oils, coolants, and abrasion so the jacket maintains integrity along moving axes. Mechanical endurance is specified at 5,000,000 bending cycles, indicating the cable can flex repeatedly before conductor fatigue appears. When the application requires continuous motion, the dynamic minimum bend radius is limited to 7.5xD; following this value prevents kinking and preserves impedance.

For stationary routing, the static bend radius relaxes to 5xD, letting tighter service loops fit inside control cabinets. The control cores are rated for 300 V, matching the low-voltage requirements of typical incremental and absolute encoders. Factory-terminated ends use a keyed Plug Connector RGS1001 on the encoder side and a matching Plug Connector RGS1002 for the drive controller, which eliminates field soldering errors and speeds installation. Identification during maintenance is simplified by the jacket's unpainted RAL 2003 orange color, which remains visible even after prolonged exposure to lubricants and UV light.