Self-supporting twisterchain: new energy chain for the first and fifth robot axes
The twisterchain from igus promises more than 600° of cable-safe rotation with fast installation and easy access for service
The self-supporting twisterchain lets compact robots turn a full 360° at the base without cable collisions. (Source: igus SE & Co. KG)
East Providence, RI, October 13, 2026 – The self-supporting twisterchain guides cables through more than 600° of rotation on compact industrial robots. The chain rests in a sag around the robot base. As the robot turns, the chain lifts step by step to a new level. As a result, the robot can rotate a full 360° without hitting its connector plate.
Solving two common robot challenges
The twisterchain addresses two problems in robotics. First, compact robots such as the FANUC LR Mate and KUKA KR AGILUS handle screwing, gluing, assembly and pick-and-place tasks. However, their fast-rotating first axis has long lacked a reliable way to supply power and data.
Second, loose corrugated hoses on the fifth axis of palletizing robots often hit the tool. In both cases, the twisterchain moves in a controlled way on two levels. Therefore, cables can safely follow full rotations, even during fast, dynamic movements.
Matthias Meyer leads the triflex e-chains and Robotics business unit at igus. “For the first time, it is now possible to rotate through 360° around the base of the robot,” he said.
Why the self-supporting twisterchain is quick to install
Because the system is self-supporting, it needs only two connection points on the robot. In other words, there are no costly guide troughs or tricky alignment steps. In addition, the chain opens at the inner radius, so cables are easy to insert. Removable shelves keep cables and hoses apart. Finally, users can adjust the pretension to match cable weight and rotation angle. This keeps every movement consistent.
Key features
- Rotation angle of more than 600°
- Self-supporting twisterchain design with no guide trough needed
- Opens on the inner radius for easy cable insertion and service
- Removable shelves to separate cables and hoses
- Axis 1: base of small industrial robots, mounted on the floor or a raised base
- Axis 5: palletizing and handling robots, mounted on the arm or end-of-arm tool
- Recyclable at end of life through the igus chainge® recycling program
For more information, visit www.igus.com/e-chains/rotary-and-spiral-movement. For more news on igus robot solutions, see Automation and Robotics.
