VARIACTO®
A Flexible Solution for Demanding Drive Applications

VARIACTO® offers versatile options for designing demanding drive solutions. The flexible push-pull chain drive enables both vertical and horizontal movement and supports the efficient use of available installation space within the system layout.

Thanks to its versatile application and chain deflection options, VARIACTO® provides machine and system manufacturers with additional design flexibility and offers a high-performance alternative to conventional linear drives.

VARIACTO® module – push-pull drive unit | © iwis

New Paths.  
Rethought.  

Is the required destination not accessible via a linear path? With VARIACTO®, structural obstacles can be flexibly bypassed: depending on the application, the chain can be deflected by up to 180°, providing additional flexibility when designing the system layout.

Contact us to discuss an application-specific solution tailored to your design requirements.

 

VARIACTO® icon marker – symbolizing the minimal space requirement of module | © modulbuero

Compact

Installation Space

VARIACTO® enables compact integration into the system layout. The low housing height, combined with chain deflection by 90° in the drive unit and by up to 180° in the chain storage unit, enables particularly low-profile designs and provides additional design flexibility.

Even with its compact design, high loads can be moved over long distances. Unlike conventional linear drives, the installation space required for the VARIACTO® drive is independent of the space required for the chain as the lifting element. This allows the available installation space to be used flexibly for the specific application.

VARIACTO® icon marker – symbolizing the max performance of the push-pull motion  | © iStock, fonikum

High

Performance

iwis push-pull chains are based on proven roller chain technology and are designed for demanding applications and high loads. The compact push-pull chain enables high loads to be moved while requiring only limited installation space.

Through controlled chain deflection, a load-free feeding phase can be combined with a subsequent pushing phase under high load.

VARIACTO® icon marker – symbolizes the almost unlimited range of the push-pull chain drive | © modulbuero

Long

Travel Distance 

The VARIACTO® push-pull chain drive enables high loads to be moved over long distances.

Depending on the system design, travel distances of up to 15 metres can be achieved, providing additional options for applications where long distances need to be covered within the system layout.

VARIACTO® icon marker – symbolizing push-pull motion and flexibility | © justinroque, iStock

Product

Extensions

VARIACTO® can be integrated into existing applications and adapted to different requirements. A selection of initial lubricants allows the lubrication to be matched to the respective operating and environmental conditions. The modular chain storage unit can be extended according to the required chain length. Various chain connection options also enable adaptation to different machine and system configurations.

VARIACTO® icon marker – symbolizing the push-pull module | © modulbuero

Alternative

Drive

VARIACTO® offers an electromechanical alternative to hydraulic and pneumatic drive solutions. As the drive requires neither hydraulic or pneumatic lines nor hydraulic units, the associated risks of fluid or compressed-air leakage are avoided. Drive-related noise from hydraulic pumps or compressed-air leakage is also avoided. This makes VARIACTO® particularly suitable for applications requiring a compact electromechanical drive solution.

VARIACTO® icon marker – symbolizing the max performance of the push-pull motion | © #sodafish visuals, Adobe

Efficient

Drive Solution

The VARIACTO® push chain drive is a mechanical system with high efficiency and is suitable for direct electric drive. Its high wear resistance and maintenance-friendly design support a long service life and reduced maintenance requirements.

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

Frequently asked questions about 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

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

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

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.

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.

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]

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.

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

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

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

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]

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]

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.

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.

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]

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

WE'RE HAPPY TO SUPPORT YOU WITH THE DESIGN OF VARIACTO® FOR YOUR APPLICATION.

 

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR INQUIRY

VARIACTO® complete system – integrated push-pull drive with gearbox and motor | © iwis
email to variacto@iwis.com

ENGINEERING TEAM
[email protected]