VARIACTO^®
Pioneering Drive Technology

VARIACTO® opens up entirely new solution possibilities. With this unique push chain drive, you can achieve more goals than ever before – higher and farther. Change your drive concept with VARIACTO® and optimize space utilization in your plant layout.

Whether in vertical or horizontal pushing, VARIACTO® offers numerous new opportunities. Thanks to its flexible application, VARIACTO® outperforms conventional linear drives.

New Paths.
Rethought.

Can’t reach your goal the linear way? With VARIACTO®, you can bypass structural obstacles by redirecting the chain up to 180°. Contact us to discuss these kinds of custom solutions.

Minimal Installation Space

With VARIACTO®, you need only minimal installation space. The low housing height and the chain’s 90° deflection in the drive unit—or up to 180° in the chain station—allow uniquely flat designs and open up new construction possibilities. Despite the compact drive height, you can still move heavy loads over long distances. Unlike conventional linear drives, the installation space of the drive is decoupled from the space required for the chain lifting element.

Maximum Performance

iwis push chains are based on proven roller chains, making them perfectly designed for highest performance and efficiency. With a compact push chain, you can move heavy loads with minimal effort. Thanks to the smart chain deflection, the combination of load-free feed and a push phase with maximum load is achieved.

(almost) Unlimited Range

Limited drive technology is a thing of the past. Move heavy loads individually over long distances with the VARIACTO® push chain drive. While conventional linear drives have strictly limited range, VARIACTO® can cover distances of up to 15 meters, depending on the design.

Product Extensions

VARIACTO® can be integrated into existing applications and easily adapted. A wide range of initial lubricants ensures reliable operation even under your specific environmental conditions. The modular chain station can be easily extended to accommodate the required chain length. Various connection options between the chain and your application ensure compatibility with your machine.

Alternative to Conventional Drives

Compared to traditional drive systems, VARIACTO® is a much cleaner and quieter solution. Since it requires no hydraulic or pneumatic lines and doesn’t rely on hydraulic units, there’s no risk of leakage. Noise from pumps or compressed air leakage is also eliminated.

Sustainable Drive Solution

The VARIACTO® push chain drive is a mechanical system with high efficiency and is ideally suited for direct electric drive. No hazardous materials are used in the manufacturing of the system. Its high wear resistance and maintenance-friendly design ensure sustainable operation throughout the entire service life.

Linear Drive Technology: Reimaging Familiar Parts

Performance Data	VARIACTO L
Push-Pull Chain	M1611RSCUS
Chain Pitch	1“ / 25.40 mm
Chain Tensile Strength (Pull)	90,000 N
Chain Tensile Strength (Push)	105,000 N (at 670 mm free length)
Max. Dynamic Load	10,000 N / Approx 1,000 kg
Max. Stroke Unguided	Standard 500 mm / Up to 700 mm
Max. Stroke Guided	15 meters
Min. Height	142 mm
Max. Speed	100 mm/s

Performance Data	VARIACTO L
Number of Sprocket Teeth	8
Dimensions (500 mm Stroke)	450 x 150 x 148 mm
Chain Weight	6.6 kg per meter (4.7 kg for 500 mm stroke)
Drive and Station Weight	13.6 kg
Max. Speed	28.8 rpm (at 100 mm/s stroke)
Max. Torque	331.9 Nm (at 10 kN load)
Compliance	RoHS, REACH
Declaration of Conformity	according to the Machinery Directive, EG2006/42/EG, Annex II B

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Frequently asked questions about VARIACTO^®

What is the function of the VARIACTO®?

The VARIACTO® is a drive system for moving loads and transmitting forces. In contrast to conventional actuators, it uses a push-pull chain to apply the load

For which applications can the VARIACTO® be used?

The VARIACTO® can be used universally as an actuator. Possible applications include lifting applications, tool changes, platform technology…

Where can I find the performance data for the drive?

The performance data can be found on top of this page or in our product flyer. There you will find information on the maximum load, maximum lift, maximum lifting speed and the temperature range

What is a push-pull chain?

Push-pull chains are a modified roller chain. In contrast to conventional roller chains, however, push-pull chains can also apply forces in the direction of pressure.

What advantages does VARIACTO® offer compared to conventional actuators?

In contrast to conventional actuators - such as cylinders and linear actuators - significantly lower overall heights can be achieved by deflecting the push chain. Problems such as leakage are also a thing of the past.

Is the VARIACTO® supplied with an electric motor?

No, iwis only offers the mechanical drive section. This leaves the customer free to choose the manufacturer. If you need assistance in selecting a motor, we will be happy to help you: [email protected]

What is the positioning accuracy of the VARIACTO®?

The achievable precision depends largely on the electric motor used and the control or regulation system used. To maximise precision, the load can be equipped with an external position measuring system.

In which environment can I use VARIACTO®?

The VARIACTO® operator is currently only intended for indoor use.

In which direction can the VARIACTO® lift?

The VARIACTO® can not only lift vertically, but also horizontally - and every angle in between.

Which lubricant can be used for the VARIACTO®?

A wide selection of lubricants is available. From wax to high-temperature oil. Please contact us for more detailed information: [email protected]

For which stroke is the chain station suitable?

The standard chain station holds chain for up to 500 mm stroke. Extensions are available to lengthen the station. If you require a customised solution for storing the chain, we will be happy to assist you: [email protected]

How is the push-pull chain connected to the load?

Special end plates are usually used for the connection to the load. However, a T-piece can also be used depending on requirements. Please contact us for customised advice: [email protected]

How is the chain prevented from collapsing?

Pretension is applied to the chain to prevent it from collapsing. The pre-tension introduces a torque into the chain, which prevents the chain from folding. This is usually applied by the end plate.

What does unguided and guided lifting mean?

Guided lifting means that the push chain is supported, e.g. on the rollers, during lifting. This increases the maximum stroke that can be performed. In contrast, the chain is not additionally supported during an unguided lift.

I have larger loads that I want to move, what can I do?

You have the option of running several systems in parallel to distribute the load. We would be happy to advise you personally on your application. Please use our enquiry form or write to us: [email protected]

How is VARIACTO® installed in my system?

Detailed instructions for installation, as well as further information on dimensions, maintenance, connection and much more can be found in the VARIACTO® operating instructions.