Plain bearing
igus has developed two new chemical-resistant and particularly durable xiros ball bearings especially for use in contact with chemicals. They are 65 times more wear-resistant than ball bearings made entirely of the plastic polyether ether ketone (PEEK). This durability is due to a combination of races and balls made of technical ceramics and a PEEK-based igus cage. Designers in the chemical and process industries, aerospace and the automotive sector, among others, benefit from their long service life.
With a new compact version of its PRT-04 slewing ring bearing, igus offers a space-saving solution for precise rotary movements under medium loads. Due to lubrication-free high-performance plastics in the sliding elements, the bearing is maintenance-free and corrosion-resistant – ideal for modern machines with limited installation space.
Owning a car is becoming less and less important for many young people in cities. Studies show that the proportion of pedestrians and bicycles is increasing significantly, especially in urban areas. The car as a status symbol is losing its appeal – instead, the focus is shifting to sustainable, flexible and low-maintenance mobility solutions. JetBike GmbH from Braunschweig is embracing this change and presenting a pioneering solution with the JetBike: an innovative combination of e-bike and car. To fulfil the requirements regarding sustainability and ease of maintenance, the company relies on lubrication-free polymer bearings from igus.
If a conveyor belt in the woodworking industry breaks down due to a defective flange mounted bearing, every second costs money. To reduce assembly work by up to 80% in such an emergency, igus presented new flange mounted bearings from the igubal series at the LIGNA 2025 trade show in Hanover. The bearings made of robust high-performance plastic are divided into two parts and can be replaced without dismantling the shaft.
Just in time for Hannover Messe, igus is announcing a breakthrough: the material developers in Cologne have succeeded in producing the established polymer plain bearings from the iglidur G, iglidur X and iglidur H series, which are used in machines, systems and vehicles worldwide, without PTFE. This is good news for a lot of companies that are already looking for future-proof alternatives due to the prospect of stricter PFAS regulations or even a ban.
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.
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.
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.