igus Launches Self-Supporting twisterchain for 600° Rotation and Maximum Robot Flexibility

SINGAPORE - July 16, 2026 - PRLog -- igus, the global leader in motion plastics, has introduced a new self-supporting twisterchain energy chain that enables rotation angles of up to 600°, providing a reliable and space-saving solution for the energy supply of compact industrial robots and palletising systems.

As automation continues to expand across manufacturing environments, compact articulated robots such as the KUKA KR AGILUS and FANUC LR Mate face a longstanding challenge: ensuring dependable cable management and energy supply systems in confined spaces with continuous rotational movements. Conventional solutions often rely on improvised hose arrangements that are prone to wear, uncontrolled movement, and potential downtime.

The new unsupported twisterchain from igus closes this market gap by offering a controlled, self-supporting energy chain system for the robot's first axis. Positioned around the robot base, the module allows smooth 360° rotation without interfering with connector contours. As the robot rotates, the chain automatically lifts and transitions between levels, ensuring safe cable guidance and enhanced operational reliability.

"Many designers have had to depend on makeshift cable routing solutions due to the lack of suitable rotary modules on the market," said Matthias Meyer, Head of the triflex® e-chains and Robotics Business Unit at igus. "With the new unsupported twisterchain, users can achieve reliable energy supply while eliminating collision risks and reducing maintenance requirements."

The solution also addresses the often-overlooked challenge of energy supply on the fifth axis of palletising robots. While cables are frequently routed through the robot arm up to the fourth axis, the final rotational axis has traditionally lacked an effective cable management solution. The twisterchain enables controlled 360° rotations on the fifth axis, preventing cables from colliding with the robot arm or end-of-arm tooling while supporting highly dynamic motion profiles.

A key unique selling point is its fast and simple installation. Unlike conventional systems, the self-supporting design requires only two connection points and eliminates the need for expensive guide troughs or complex alignment procedures. The e-chain also features flexible interior separation, removable shelves, and an openable inner radius, allowing quick cable insertion regardless of connector size.

With adjustable pretension for precise adaptation to cable loads and rotation requirements, the new igus twisterchain delivers maximum freedom of movement, enhanced reliability, and greater flexibility for both new robot designs and retrofit applications.

For more information, visit: https://www.igus.sg/energy-chain/robot-cable-management/p...
For enquiry: https://www.igus.sg/service/contact/unsupported-twisterch...