RKG4401 by Bosch Rexroth Indramat

Bosch Rexroth Indramat manufactures the RKG4401 cable and places it in the RKG Encoder Cables series. This encoder cable carries position signals and sensor power between a motor-mounted encoder and a drive controller in industrial automation systems. Factory-installed M23, 12-pin connectors at each end simplify installation by matching the pin layouts already used on Indramat hardware.

The cable has a diameter of 8.8 mm, which sets the overall bundle thickness and helps determine gland sizing and routing space in energy chains. During motion, the manufacturer specifies a dynamic bending radius of 10xD; following this ratio helps limit conductor fatigue when the cable flexes millions of times. For fixed routing, the static bending radius can be reduced to 6xD, allowing compact loops inside cabinets. A PUR outer jacket resists coolants and abrasion, and its RAL 2003 orange color improves visibility. Qualification for 2,000,000 bending cycles confirms suitability for continuous-flex applications such as gantry axes. Shield braiding around the twisted pairs suppresses noise, while the controller-side M23 pin connector is molded to help block oil ingress, and the encoder end terminates in a matching socket.

Power and signal conductors are sized for both voltage drop and impedance control. The supply leg uses 2x1.0 mm² copper, providing ample cross-section for sensor power over extended runs. Differential channels use 4x(2x0.25 mm²) StC, supporting balanced transmission for sine-cosine or RS-422 encoders. The cable remains flexible down to -30 °C and handles ambient or self-heating up to 80 °C, so it can operate in unheated plants and near warm drive cabinets. The keyed M23 hardware on the encoder side prevents reverse insertion and keeps the pinout consistent across the RKG series.