Sumitomo Drive Technologies is expanding its portfolio of zero-backlash precision gearboxes with the B Series of the Fine Cyclo® family. The new series is aimed at manufacturers and designers seeking to implement compact drive solutions with high dynamics and maximum transmission accuracy – particularly in applications with limited installation space and high demands on rigidity and running accuracy, such as machine tools, medical technology or handling systems.
From 26 to 28 May, Sumitomo Drive Technologies will present the Fine Cyclo B Series for the first time at SPS Italia 2026 in Parma (Hall 5, Booth L021).
Compact in diameter. Big on performance.
The Fine Cyclo B Series combines a compact design with maximum precision and high power density. The newly developed series featuring Cyclo technology covers outer diameters from 120 to 231 millimetres and transmits acceleration torques from 417 to 4,000 Newton metres. In the overload range, peak torques of up to 8,000 Newton metres are possible during emergency stops.
Axial and radial runout in the micrometre range, high torsional rigidity and maximum transmission accuracy ensure precise and dynamic movements even under the most demanding conditions.
Thanks to its single-stage design and wide reduction ratio range (29–179:1), the B Series can be integrated into machines in a particularly space-saving manner. The modular drive system also ensures quick and standardised adaptation to various motor and interface concepts.
“The new B Series supports highly dynamic applications without users having to compromise on accuracy, rigidity, load capacity or performance,” says Michael Berger, Product Manager and Team Leader Business Development at Sumitomo Drive Technologies. “Two variants, each with four sizes and up to five reduction ratios, allow for precise adaptation to any application.”
Two variants for different integration and load requirements
The series comprises two versions that cover different requirements:
- F4C-B “main bearing type” – Plug & Play gearheads for robust precision axes
The F4C-B variant with integrated main bearing impresses with exceptionally high rigidity, peak torque capacity and precise transmission accuracy – completely free of mechanical backlash.
As a Plug & Play solution, the gearboxes are factory-lubricated for life and fully sealed, making them maintenance-free and ready for immediate use.
The integrated axial angular contact ball bearings are designed for the highest loads and ensure reliable load-bearing capacity, while exact concentricity and parallelism at the output guarantee precise motion execution and secure application connection.
The four sizes with graduated reduction ratios allow for flexible design for various automation tasks and are particularly suitable for applications where rigidity, precise transmission and reliable load support are key.
- FC-B “KIT type” – Modular precision gearbox for customised machine solutions
The gearbox kit offers maximum design freedom for customised machine concepts. It focuses on the core function of precise torque transmission and enables application-specific design – particularly where integration and interfaces are defined individually by the customer.
The kit is available in four sizes (B15, B25, B35, B45) with a wide range of reduction ratios up to 179:1 in the single-stage range and is particularly suitable for highly dynamic solutions where precision, flexibility and load-bearing capacity are crucial.
Typical areas of application
The Fine Cyclo B Series is suitable for the following industries, among others:
- Machine tools: High torsional rigidity and concentricity keep axes stable under load, improving surface quality and manufacturing accuracy.
- Medical technology: Precise axis movements in CT or MRI scanners, combined with smooth running, ensure stable image quality and quiet operation.
- Packaging machines: Compact design, high input speeds and maximum torque density enable short cycle times and efficient machine layouts.
With the B Series, Sumitomo Drive Technologies demonstrates how precision, dynamics and compactness can be combined in a single gearbox. The series offers maximum flexibility with minimal installation space, high positioning accuracy and robust solutions for demanding automation and precision applications.
Technical principle: Cyclo gear technology
The Fine Cyclo B Series uses proven Cyclo® technology, which enables particularly high torques with smooth and vibration-free operation. An eccentric bearing mounted on the drive shaft moves the cam discs. These transfer the rotational movement precisely to the output shaft. The principle reduces mechanical play and ensures smooth, highly dynamic movements.
What began in 1925 with the company’s patenting of the groundbreaking Cyclo principle by Munich-based designer Lorenz Braren has since developed into the epitome of German engineering and makes Sumitomo Drive Technologies an international manufacturer of drive solutions with its European headquarters near Munich.
