GIMATIC RT Series Pneumatic Swivelling Unit Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The GIMATIC RT series is a pneumatic swivelling unit with rack-and-pinion drive and a continuously adjustable rotation angle, used to rotate grippers and parts in handling systems.
It features large ball bearings on the shaft, a through hole in the pinion, optional rubber bumpers (FGD) or hydraulic shock absorbers, an optional intermediate stopper (RTD) and optional proximity magnetic sensors.
Quick Verdict
A robust rotary module for adding a flip or turn to a gripper. Adjustable stops and damping options make it easy to tune for speed and smoothness.
GIMATIC RT Series Pneumatic Swivelling Unit at a Glance
Specification | Details |
Product type | Pneumatic swivelling (rotary) unit |
Drive | Rack and pinion |
Rotation angle | Continuously adjustable |
Bearings | Large ball bearings on the shaft |
Pinion | Through hole |
End damping | Optional rubber bumpers (FGD) or hydraulic shock absorbers |
Intermediate position | Optional intermediate stopper (RTD) |
Sensors | Optional proximity magnetic sensors |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
In a rack-and-pinion drive, pistons push a toothed rack that turns a pinion on the output shaft. The design delivers consistent torque throughout the rotation and allows precise end positions set by adjustable stops.
Large ball bearings carry the radial and axial loads of a gripper and part mounted on the shaft, which is critical when the load is offset. The through hole lets air lines or cables pass to the rotating tool.
Damping determines how fast the unit can rotate. Rubber bumpers suit lighter loads, while hydraulic shock absorbers absorb more energy for heavier or faster motions. The RTD intermediate stopper adds a third position for more complex sequences.
Integration and Selection
Calculate the load's mass moment of inertia and the required rotation time, then choose size and damping so kinetic energy stays within limits.
Route air or cables through the pinion hole and add magnetic sensors to confirm end positions.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Assembly | Turning parts between stations |
Plastics | Rotating parts after demolding |
Packaging | Reorienting products |
Electronics | Flipping boards and components |
Functional Uses
Part flipping and reorientation
Gripper rotation
Three-position rotation with RTD
Cable routing through the shaft
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Continuously adjustable angle
Large ball bearings
Through-hole pinion
Several damping options
Limitations
Torque values must be checked per size
Damping limits speed with heavy loads
Pneumatic supply needed
Who Should Consider the GIMATIC RT Series Pneumatic Swivelling Unit?
The RT suits handling systems that need a robust pneumatic rotation axis on or beside the gripper.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. GIMATIC prices the RT by size and damping, stopper and sensor options.
Further Reading
GIMATIC RT Series Pneumatic Swivelling Unit FAQ
What drive does the RT use?
A rack-and-pinion drive.
Is the rotation angle adjustable?
Yes, continuously adjustable.
Can it stop in the middle?
With the optional RTD intermediate stopper.
What damping is available?
Rubber bumpers (FGD) or hydraulic shock absorbers.
Can cables pass through it?
There is a through hole in the pinion.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from GIMATIC.
