With the UK operation based in Northampton, igus develops lubrication‑free motion plastics that replace traditional metal components, increasing performance while eliminating the need for grease and maintenance. With thousands of products available from stock, igus supports applications across thousands of industries, proving that high-performance plastics are the sustainable and cost-effective way to achieve operational success.

At this year’s exhibition, visitors can explore a wide selection of igus technologies, including energy chains, flexible cables, plain bearings, linear guides and lead screw systems. All products are rigorously tested in their test laboratories to ensure predictable service life and proven durability in demanding environments.

As a global leader in motion plastics, igus’ expertise extends beyond energy chains and bearings to 3D‑printed wear‑resistant parts, smart plastics for condition monitoring and its rapidly growing RBTX platform for low‑cost automation.

RBTX: Making automation accessible

A major highlight on the stand will be live robotics displays from the RBTX platform. RBTX is the online marketplace designed to help SMEs, start‑ups and manufacturers increase productivity without the high investment typically associated with automation. RBTX brings together robot manufacturers, component suppliers and automation partners on a single platform, offering complete systems or individual components for tasks such as pick‑and‑place, assembly and inspection.

To celebrate the event, igus is running a daily prize competition on the stand. Attendees can take part in the ‘Spin‑the‑Wheel challenge’, giving them the chance to win £1000 off their next igus order. One new winner will be selected from the pool of successful spinners every day of the exhibition, offering multiple opportunities for visitors to participate throughout the week.

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In one application, SMC’s customer was using hundreds of metres of cabling to control cobots on a 40 metre production line, resulting in complex looms. These were time-consuming to build, added weight to the robot armature, created additional costs for maintenance and unplanned downtime due to cable failures through wear and tear.

By adopting SMC wireless systems the customer successfully eliminated the cable looms – cutting costs and improving cobot build time. SMC also converted all other manifolds on the line to wireless, further improving the benefits.

The customer is enjoying significantly lower costs for build time, labour and materials, improved commissioning time as well as reduced maintenance and downtime.

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Robotic warehouses increasingly function as fast-evolving ecosystems in which data, power and motion interact continuously. Autonomous mobile robots, robotic picking units and high-speed sorting systems all depend on uninterrupted communication and power delivery to operate safely and efficiently. In this environment, the connector becomes a critical component rather than a passive interface.

Within automated warehouses, connectors face a level of dynamic stress rarely encountered in traditional, stationary industrial environments. Constant vibration, rapid acceleration and deceleration, repetitive docking cycles, cable flexing and electromagnetic interference from dense motor activity create an environment where weak interconnects fail quickly.

A connector suitable for a stationary control panel may degrade rapidly on a robot executing continuous manoeuvres across multiple shifts. True resilience requires connectors that maintain electrical integrity while resisting mechanical wear, environmental contamination and fluctuating thermal loads, even as data and power requirements grow more complex.

Built for autonomous performance

Modern robots integrate machine vision, advanced sensor arrays and edge-processing modules that rely on stable high-speed data transmission. High-density connector formats with carefully controlled impedance and precision-engineered contacts provide the channels needed for these workloads while protecting signal integrity under motion and vibration.

As data rates increase and robots process more information at the edge, these interconnects must also manage electromagnetic compatibility challenges, ensuring that dense clusters of wireless and wired systems can coexist without cross-talk or latency-inducing interference.

A recent robotics industry analysis noted a surge in the deployment of AI-driven humanoid and mobile robotic systems in logistics and production, emphasising that their adoption is contingent on reliable, interference-resilient communication infrastructure. This showcases the shift towards connectors that are not just rugged but engineered for environments where data is as mission-critical as power.

Mechanical resilience remains equally important. Robotic warehouses rely on frequent battery changes, automated docking and continuous interaction with charging infrastructure. These applications require connectors capable of thousands of mating and unmating cycles without significant wear to contacts or housings.

Advanced sealing technologies, such as IP67 or IP69K-rated housings with overmoulded gaskets shield connectors from dust ingress, moisture and the fine particulate matter that circulates in busy logistics hubs. At the materials level, engineered alloys like nickel-plated brass, stainless steel or hard-anodised aluminium, combined with corrosion-resistant contact platings such as gold or palladium-nickel, provide durability against oxidation, abrasion and thermal cycling. The result is an interconnect designed to operate as a long-life component of the robotic system rather than a consumable accessory.

Prepared for tomorrow’s robotics

The next generation of robotic warehouses will place even greater demands on interconnect systems. As fleets scale and facilities integrate more autonomous functions, connectors will increasingly serve as the physical foundation for modularity and upgradeability. Connector families designed with consistent geometries and scalable contact counts enable manufacturers to add processing units, expand sensing capability or incorporate enhanced communications modules without redesigning entire platforms.

This theme is reflected across the automation industry. A 2025 workforce study on warehouse robotics found that 98 per cent of workers report productivity improvements in automated facilities, but also that operational success depends on reducing unplanned downtime, much of which originates at electrical interconnect points rather than software or mechanical faults. The reliability of connectors has become a top-tier priority for organisations scaling robotics at speed.

Power architecture is also undergoing transformation. Robots now carry heavier computational loads, more advanced sensing arrays and increasingly energy-hungry machine-vision systems. Meanwhile, operators push for accelerated charging cycles, extended run times and reduced energy loss during peak operation.

This combination drives demand for connectors capable of managing higher current densities with precise thermal dissipation properties and robust insulation. Customisable assemblies, an area where PEI-Genesis maintains deep expertise, ensure that connectors match the exact electrical and thermal requirements of each robotic platform instead of relying on generic configurations.

As warehouses transition into fully autonomous, high-bandwidth environments, the performance of the interconnect layer becomes inseparable from the performance of the robots themselves. Every navigation decision, sensor update and charging cycle relies on connectors engineered to withstand constant motion, electrical noise and environmental stress.

Going forward, the real differentiator in warehouse automation will lie in how effectively these physical interfaces support scalability, uptime and system longevity. With the right connector strategy, operators can build robotic fleets that are not only faster and smarter, but far more resilient to the demands of continuous operation.

Developed for a wide range of applications from robotics to motor control, this connector is a future-proof 3-in-1 solution for transmitting data, signals, and power. The patented Oneclick fast-locking system enables particularly fast and secure installation. This results in time savings of up to 70 percent compared to conventional connection methods.

With the first ever IEC-standardised M17 interface, the connector is ideal for developers looking for robust and standardised single-cable solutions. The reduced installed height compared to standard M17 connectors makes the compact hybrid connectors suitable for space-critical, modular designs. Error free mounting is assured with the colour and mechanical coding in the pin connector pattern.

The M17 PRO hybrid connector is available in versions for 50 V and 630 V. It meets high requirements, withstanding currents of up to 16 A and a connection cross-section of the power pins of up to 1.5 mm2. The IP66 and IP68 (2 m/24 h) degrees of protection ensure a high level of reliability even under demanding conditions.

With a current carrying capacity of up to 660 A, the EPIC POWERLOCK is one of the most powerful single-pole connectors in its segment. This system was recently redesigned by LAPP. The round connector is now available in the new POWERLOCK version, which significantly simplifies assembly, assembly, and unlocking.

The core feature is the newly developed mechanism with a fully integrated slider, which allows release without the need for special tools. This makes handling easier and prevents improper disconnection of the plug connection.

The contacts inside have also been redesigned: instead of different variants – depending on the conductor cross-section – the new POWERLOCK uses a single cone-shaped axial screw contact that automatically fans out the strands when inserted. This allows diameters from 35 to 240 mm2 to be reliably connected. The combination of mechanical and colour coding minimises the risk of incorrect connections and enables clear assignment of the conductors.

With its high current-carrying capacity, IP-protected design, and reliable locking mechanism, EPIC POWERLOCK is particularly suitable for industrial distribution systems, test benches, and mobile power supply solutions.

With the EPIC M23 Power Quickflex, LAPP presents a circular connector that combines high electrical resilience with a tool-free locking system. LAPP says this connector sets new standards in connection technology for servo motors, automation technology, and demanding industrial applications.

Thanks to integrated Quickflex technology, the EPIC M23 Power offers maximum flexibility. Variable pole configurations and modular interchangeable inserts enable easy adaptation to different power requirements and device configurations. This not only facilitates quick conversion in the field, but also offers new possibilities in system planning – especially for applications that require high current carrying capacity in limited space.

The robust design of the connector, combined with its high vibration and temperature resistance, makes it ideal for drive and automation solutions, robotics systems and mobile machines.

For lightning-fast communication

With the new EPIC ClickConnect technology, LAPP offers a compelling solution for the increasing demands and accelerated installation and maintenance processes in industrial production. The push-pull solution for M12 patch cords and cord sets relies on a completely tool-free locking system and opens up a new dimension in efficiency, safety, and reliability for users in automation, mechanical engineering and industrial communication.

The focus is on tool-free locking based on a mechanical locking mechanism. The connection locks automatically with a simple push-fit. The resulting haptic and acoustic feedback ensures a reproducibly secure connection. Unlocking is just as easy by pulling on the integrated release element. The system thus significantly reduces installation times and is optimized for use in compact installation environments where conventional screw or clamping mechanisms are only accessible to a limited extent.

Thanks to its ease of use and minimized susceptibility to errors, EPIC ClickConnect is particularly suitable for applications where maintenance intervals are short and production downtimes are critical.

The vector award has gained international recognition, with over 320 applications from 37 countries received in 2024 alone. “This impressive response reflects the diversity and innovative spirit of the international engineering community,” says Justin Leonard, e-chain director at igus in Northampton.

Applications vary, from the longest e-chain (670 metres long) installed in a bucket wheel excavator in an Indian power plant, weighing several hundred kilograms, to the shortest variations of the E2 micro series, measuring just a few centimetres in length used in modern industrial robots, medical devices and 3D printers.

“The vast amount of applications in recent years show that the demands on energy chains are constantly increasing,” emphasises Leonard.

The systems have to cope with higher payloads, increasing speeds and dynamic motion sequences in robotics. “Many of the projects are top technical achievements, but they rarely attract public attention, and we want to change this with the vector awards, which offers designers and companies an international stage for their applications with energy chain systems.”

The competition awards four trophies:

• Golden vector awarding 5,000 euros
• Silver vector awarding 2,500 euros
• Bronze vector awarding 1,000 euros
• Green vector for exceptionally sustainable solutions, also awarding 1,000 euros.

All design engineers using energy chains made of high-performance plastic or plastic hybrid solutions from igus are eligible to take part, but the projects must already have been successfully implemented. The closing date for entries is 30th January 2026. An independent jury of experts from research backgrounds, the specialist press and industry will then meet in Cologne on the 26th of February to select the winners, who will be announced in early April.

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The compact SPE M12 hybrid connectors support the transmission of high-speed data and unprecedented current levels over a single cable. This makes this connection technology excellent for robotics systems and drives, as well as for future IIoT applications in automation technology.

In particular, the trend toward miniaturisation is supported, as devices (eg. cobots, grippers, sensors and vision systems) can feature higher performance within the same M12 form factor and without increasing space requirements.

More data and power

Existing hybrid connectors that meet IEC 61076-2-113 standard deliver only 2 x 6 A and 100 Mbit/s, restricting high-power devices and fast data exchange. TE’s latest SPE M12 hybrid is an industrial connector that combines data and power transmission in a single interface. It supports high-speed data transmission at up to 1 Gbit/s, helps enabling real-time communication at data rates 10 times higher than in previous industrial applications.

The 2 x8 A power supply supports the operation of power-demanding components up to approximately 1 kW.

TE has developed the connector for harsh environments and designed it to be highly robust with an IP67 protection rating. It supports interoperability between devices and manufacturers thanks to its standardised mating face. Its integrated design simplifies cabling, prevents cable clutter, and lowers installation costs.

Communication takes place via advanced Ethernet protocols, reducing the need for gateways and fieldbus couplers. Developers and designers of plants and systems can incorporate the standardized and future-proof SPE M12 interfaces into their designs, increasing planning reliability and reducing development costs.

Overcoming former M12 connector limitations

Conventional M12 connectors have limitations in terms of power and data transmission. This makes it difficult to meet the requirements of Industry 4.0. The existing barriers are to be overcome by the IEC 63171-7 edition 2 and corresponding products, which extend adopted SPE standards to the M12 hybrid format.

TE’s latest SPE M12 hybrid connector consistently follows this approach. It supports trends such as decentralisation, miniaturisation and digitalisation in industrial environments and provides for a high degree of interoperability between devices even from different manufacturers.

As a founding member of the SPE Industrial Partner Network and being one of the leaders in user organisations and standardisation bodies, TE is driving the extension of the new IEC 63171-7 standard for an extensive industrial SPE ecosystem. The latest version (Edition 2) of this standard marks a significant step forward in the development of industrial connectivity and the acceleration of Industry 4.0 adoption.

Manuel Rüter, senior principal of technology, standardisation and consortia at TE, says: “By aligning with the global Ethernet infrastructure and helping to enable interoperability across devices and systems, the new standard is expected to accelerate market adoption of SPE technologies, reduce complexity, supports end-to-end Ethernet, and helps enhance sustainability by reducing copper cables.”

The igus product portfolio includes flexible cables, robotic components, motor control and sensors, all aimed at improving technology, reducing costs and enhancing durability in a wide range of industries, including machine tooling, automotive manufacturing, food and beverage packing, medical and lab equipment and smart agriculture.

The igus ReBeL (Robotic embedded-BDLC and electronics Link) cobots, now available from Mouser, are cost-effective and lightweight robotic arms featuring up to six degrees of freedom. These cobots are compact and lightweight in design, making them suitable for assembly tasks, quality inspection tasks, and service areas. Integrated sensors, cameras, and advanced software ensure safety, flexibility, and adaptability in a wide range of environments.

The igus Gantry robots, also known as cartesian or linear robots, feature two base X-axes, a Y-axis, and an optional Z-axis. These robotic devices are ideal for applications where high precision is needed and where a task requires a repetitive motion, such as pick and place, sorting, labelling, and measurement. These Gantry robots feature self-lubricating plastic liners that slide instead of rolling, making them much more efficient than similar devices that use recirculating ball bearings. These robots are lightweight, clean, quiet, corrosion-resistant, and maintenance-free.

The drylin Delta robots are designed with linear actuators, featuring highly engineered, self-lubricating sliding plastic liners. These liners make them lightweight, quiet, cost-effective, and low-maintenance. The Delta robots are suitable for low-cost automation applications such as belt transfer stations, sorting systems, small parts handling, and fast positioning machines. The Delta robots offer an accuracy of +/-0.5 mm.

The igus e-chain cable carriers guide and protect energy, data, and signal cables in challenging environments. The e-chain cable carriers reduce downtime and increase the service life of cables. These cable carriers feature a low-weight, modular, strong design, smooth contours, and are easy to install. The e-chain carriers are well-suited for cable management in various settings, including industrial, energy, medical, construction, and stage and theatre.

Mouser will also be offering igus’ chainflex cables, which are designed to deliver unmatched reliability, durability, and performance in industrial motion applications. With over 1,300 cable types available to order, chainflex offers a comprehensive range for data, bus, hybrid, control, motor, servo, feedback, coaxial, fibre optic (FOC), robotics, and special applications.

Customers seeking the best cable for their motor face a huge array of cable options, qualities and prices. igus makes over 6,000 drive cables that comply with 38 manufacturer standards, and now the completely redesigned readycable finder helps users choose the right one, quickly and easily.

The online tool has a modern, user-friendly design that only requires the part number of the motor manufacturer’s cable to convert it directly into the appropriate readycable. The customer can choose from up to seven different cable qualities that are designed for special requirements in energy chains. These include different outer jacket materials and specific properties that vary depending on the conditions of use. The price, the cost savings when changing the chainflex cable quality, and the delivery time of the cable are all displayed in real time, enabling quick ordering directly in the online shop.

The service life of the cable can also be determined with the integrated chainflex service life calculator. “Our new readycable finder was developed to make it as easy as possible for our customers and igus sales engineers to select the optimal cable while keeping an eye on costs,” says Justin Leonard, e-chain and readycable director at igus UK in Northampton. “Thanks to the optimised user interface and easy handling, customers get all the information they need quickly, from product characteristics to delivery time.”

Chainflex service life calculator supported by AI

igus online tools focus on customer service, efficiency, and sustainability. The chainflex Lifetime Calculator 2.0 helps customers determine the service life of their selected cables using real test data from the 4,000m2 igus test laboratory , using AI-based calculations. After entering parameters such as travel, speed, acceleration, and maximum bending radius, the tool provides an accurate calculation of the durability of the cable. The user can also download a warranty certificate directly, that is designed precisely for its application parameters with calculated cycle numbers.

“The new service life calculator combines economy and ecology by helping customers to find the optimal cable for their application – both in terms of costs and sustainability,” explains Leonard.

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Christmas means friends, food and, for many, a few drinks. White wine is the most popular alcoholic beverage in the UK and we consume about £12bn of alcohol in the four weeks leading up to Christmas. To keep supplying wine, especially with labour shortages in farming, winegrowers must increasingly rely on automation during the grape harvest.

But vineyards on slopes with a 75% gradient and narrow rows of vines were previously considered very difficult to automate. CH Engineering has developed a particularly compact harvesting vehicle precisely for this tricky application. It uses robust energy chains made of high-performance plastic from igus to work reliably even under difficult conditions and to minimise maintenance costs for winegrowers.

The harvester’s core is the UT110evo tracked vehicle. With a width of 1.32m, length of 3.2m and weight of 2.7 tonnes, it is light and small enough to be transported on a tractor trailer, allowing it to be used on vineyards with narrow access roads. On arrival, a side ramp on the trailer folds out, the vehicle drives down and into the vineyard row. A winch connects the vehicle to the trailer and supports it with a tractive force of 1.5 tonnes, which allows gradients of up to 75% to be climbed. In these steep locations, the operator can incline their seat to a position which reduces strain on the body.

Motion plastics reduce maintenance costs

A major achievement in the machine’s design is the development of a vehicle that copes with the harsh conditions of the vineyard while simultaneously minimising the machine’s maintenance. The engineers opted for energy chains made of high-performance plastic from igus to guide the hydraulic and electrical cables from the vehicle to the harvesting head. The e-chains not only prevent the cables from kinking and jamming but also eliminate the risk of them getting caught in the vines.

“They also help increase the longevity of the machine,” says Justin Leonard, director of e-chains and cables at igus UK. “Our energy chains are made of durable, corrosion-free, UV-resistant high-performance plastic, meaning that they retain their mechanical properties for years without maintenance.”

The engineers have also replaced classic metal bearings with igus polymer bearings. In the past, ball bearings were so badly corroded that they only lasted one season before needing replacement, despite daily lubrication. For this reason, plastic plain bearings from igus are now also being used. They are corrosion-free, robust and require no added lubrication, as solid lubricants already integrated in the material enable low-friction dry running.

Shaking vines

The other main component of the vehicle is the CH 500 steep slope harvester, an attachment that can be connected to the front-loading area of the tracked vehicle in 30 minutes using just six screws. Shaped like a giant nutcracker, it has two movable arms, connected to the upper part of the machine enclosing the vine. On the insides of these arms is a mechanism that vibrates the vine with up to 620 vibrations per minute that shake off the grapes.

A collection system under the machine collects the grapes and transports them to a collection container. The harvester moves down the vineyard at a speed of up to 2.8 miles per hour – significantly faster than any human harvester. On the way back, it can even reach speeds of up to 5.6 miles per hour, pulled by the winch. Back on the trailer, operators empty the container and position the vehicle for the next row of vines until the entire vineyard has been harvested.

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