igus is adding torsion-resistant DeviceNet cable for highly dynamic robotic applications to its CFROBOT8.PLUS cable range

Today, industrial robots operate at ever higher speeds, with complex motion profiles and in increasingly confined spaces. Robot cables must not only allow for extremely small bend radii, but also reliably withstand millions of torsional movements. To meet these demanding requirements, igus has developed its proven CFROBOT8.PLUS range of robot cables and is now expanding it to include a new DeviceNet cable for applications involving ±360°/m torsion.

High flexibility, a long service life and data transmission without failures: in modern robot systems cables must deliver top performance. The CFROBOT8.PLUS series from igus meets precisely these requirements. It is designed for torsional movements of up to ±360°/m and has a guaranteed service life of ten million cycles. “This is made possible by a special braiding of the shielding design, which resembles a knitting pattern and thus allows greater freedom of movement,” explains Rainer Rössel, Head of Business Unit chainflex Cables at igus. “In addition, we have been able to significantly reduce the cables’ outer diameter compared with the previous CFROBOT8 series – by up to 21 per cent, depending on the model.” “This is a decisive advantage, particularly for applications in confined spaces.”

New DeviceNet cable for secure data transmission

With the new CFROBOT8.PLUS.030, igus is expanding the CFROBOT8.PLUS series to include a bus cable for the established DeviceNet system. It was developed for use in highly dynamic applications such as six-axis robots, handling systems and lead screw drives. The torsion-resistant overall shield made from tinned copper braiding provides reliable shielding and ensures strong data transmission without disruptions – even under extreme mechanical loads. Furthermore, the cable is resistant to oil and UV radiation, which makes it suitable for use both indoors and outdoors.

Apart from traditional robotics applications, the cables can also be used in machine tools or other applications subject to torsional stress. Free-hanging applications, e.g. mobile terminals, can also be implemented. This means that users now have access to a range of products covering all common bus systems, including Profinet, Profibus, CAN bus and Ethernet applications up to CAT7. CFROBOT8.PLUS cables are available from stock and can be purchased in lengths starting at just one metre, with no minimum quantity surcharges and no cutting or packaging costs. On request, igus also supplies the cables ready to connect as harnessed readycable®.

Tested millions of times in the test laboratory

Like all chainflex cables, the CFROBOT8.PLUS series is also extensively tested in igus’s 5,500-square-metre test laboratory. This involves simulating real-world motion profiles in combination with three-dimensional triflex energy chains for robots from igus. This way igus ensures that the cables continue to function reliably even under extreme operating conditions. Tests have already shown that the electrical specifications of the Ethernet communication were still well within the acceptable range even after more than 15 million cycles. The test data collected is incorporated into online tools for calculating service life, and forms the basis for the four-year guarantee, which is unique on the global market. This gives users a high degree of planning certainty and enables them to optimise their application in a cost-effective way. The CFROBOT8.PLUS series from igus offers a high-performance and durable solution that easily meets the challenges of modern industrial applications.