Plain bearing
A mobile surgical microscope from Prechtl Tech Solutions for structurally weak countries has won the manus plastic bearing competition 2025. A jury of experts recognised the engineers who used lubrication-free polymer bearings and were thus able to increase the reliability of the microscope. Other winners of the competition include a bicycle trailer for parcel delivery, an AI hoe for agriculture and an agrivoltaics system with irrigation and cultivation system. They have all created ecological, economic and social benefits by switching to lubrication-free plain bearings made from high-performance plastics.
Whether moving to specified spots with a sensor, adjusting a headrest to the desired height or getting a screen into an ergonomic position until it clicks: igus has launched the new linear guide with PTFE-free drylin WWP locking carriages for simple positioning tasks, e.g. in the interior. The solution is intuitive, compact, durable and, thanks to the material combination of lubrication-free high-performance plastics and aluminium, particularly light, hygienic and low-maintenance.
This record participation in the manus award 2025 from igus impressively demonstrates the innovative power and creativity of engineers around the world. The competition recognises the creative use of plastic bearings in machines, systems and vehicles, with a focus on the economic, ecological and social benefits. With 613 registrations from 38 countries, the competition noted an increase of almost 28% compared to 2023.
Sound engineers in theatres, opera houses and television studios are often under enormous time and expectation pressure. The e-spool microphone from igus provides help. With the new electrically powered microphone reeler, microphone cables of up to 30m can be automatically guided from the ceiling at the touch of a button. A trick in the design optimises transmission quality.
To be able to supply mobile homes with electricity independently, the company CityFreighter has developed a solar tracker that automatically orients itself towards the sun and thus ensures maximum energy output. Its mechanics are made of lubrication-free igus motion plastics. They ensure precise and maintenance-free movement of the solar panel, even in adverse weather conditions.
What do dental floss, skis, a frying pan and plain bearings have in common? They are all based on organic fluorine compounds, also known as PFAS. What makes them special: PFAS are insensitive to water, heat and dirt. They help plain bearings achieve wear-resistant and lubrication-free dry operation. However, as the chemicals can only degrade very slowly, they have a negative reputation. If they get into the environment, this can harm both people and nature. igus is therefore developing plain-bearing materials such as the new iglidur JPF, which dispense entirely with PFAS such as PTFE.
The time has come again: engineers from all over the world are invited to apply for the 12th manus award 2025. For 21 years, igus has been honouring applications that are characterised by the creative, bold and sustainable use of plastic plain bearings. The winners will receive prize money of up to €5,000.
The renowned Belgian brewery Chimay, known for its traditional Trappist beer, relies on maintenance-free spherical bearings from igus in its bottling plant. By replacing rusty, seized ball bearings with lubrication-free igubal H3 bearing inserts, the brewery was able to increase efficiency and reduce maintenance.
Summertime is holiday time. People lying on the beach often look out over the sea, which is lined with boats and yachts. To ensure that they remain corrosion-free and require as little maintenance as possible, components that can withstand severe weather conditions are required. Parts such as plain bearings, linear and drive technology from the plastics specialist igus have been proving their worth for years in the rough conditions prevailing in sea air and salt water.
Handling containers around the clock under extreme conditions – this is the daily routine of STS, RMG and RTG cranes in ports around the world. However, premature wear and breakdowns of the wheel and axis units, the bogies, place an enormous burden on operators. In Rotterdam, igus will be presenting a solution at TOC Europe from 11th to 13th June 2024: wound, lubrication-free and corrosion-resistant polymer bearings from the igutex series for heavy-duty applications.