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The number of e-lorries is increasing, and with it a problem in logistics centres, transhipment yards and bus depots: the heavy charging cables are often difficult for drivers to move. If they are on the ground, they are also at risk of being stolen or damaged in manoeuvring accidents. igus is therefore shifting cable guidance into the air: the new e-tract DC horizontal is an electric overhead cable guide system for electric lorries, coaches and buses that makes workplaces more ergonomic for drivers, reduces the risk of damage and downtime to the charging infrastructure and is difficult for thieves to reach. The AC version of the system will also be used for electric cars in underground car parks, for example.
The winners of the 10th vector award 2026 from igus have been confirmed: terminal operator Cruise Port Rotterdam wins the gold award with its system for supplying shore power to cruise ships in ports. The silver vector goes to Jenaer Antriebstechnik GmbH for an ultra-precise positioning system in microchip production, while the Royal Ballet and Opera from London was awarded the bronze vector for a 37m high stage tower with lowerable multimedia technology. Membion GmbH, which has developed a membrane bioreactor for filtering microplastics from drinking water, is delighted to receive the green vector. igus received a record of 424 entries from 36 countries for the competition’s anniversary edition, which honours creative and sustainable energy chain applications.
Whether in microelectronics, semiconductor or battery production – it is essential that surroundings are free from particles and processes work with maximum reliability. With increasing automation and constantly growing systems, the routes for material transport are also becoming longer. A key challenge here is to ensure a reliable supply of energy and data while minimising particle emissions. Busbar systems do not transmit data; energy chains usually require complex extraction systems for microparticles. With the C6 energy chain certified by the Fraunhofer IPA according to ISO Class 1 in combination with the new e-spin upper run guide wheel, igus now offers a solution. The system permits compact and durable energy supply in cleanrooms – even for travels of up to 30 metres.
Wherever people operate doors or other moving elements by hand on a daily basis, minimal operating forces, quiet operation and freedom from maintenance are crucial – especially in light of the new EU Accessibility Act and the increasing automation of everyday life. With the new drylin C roller guide, igus has developed a system that offers the best operating properties and relies on completely lubrication-free running surfaces. Three rollers made of high-performance plastic allow for smooth manual adjustments, for example in mechanical engineering and interior design or for self-service terminals at airports or in supermarkets.
At a time when global conflicts and economic uncertainty are slowing down many industries, the power to innovate remains essential for growth and competitiveness. With 227 new motion plastics products, igus proves that innovations can emerge precisely when conditions are difficult. To achieve further growth, the company has invested heavily in new infrastructure and automation, leading to even faster delivery times. In addition, igus is expanding its global activities with new and existing subsidiaries to further strengthen customer proximity through local production.
EU Regulation 2024/3190 is forcing manufacturers of machinery for the food industry to rethink. Starting in July 2026, components with product contact may no longer use parts that contain the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A. The ban applies to all machines that are new introductions to the market. For existing product lines, the deadline is January 2028. Many design engineers are already looking for alternatives. At Hannover Messe 2026, igus will be presenting the bisphenol-free plain bearing material iglidur A351, which design engineers can switch to without any technical losses or additional adjustments.
In many conveyor systems, worn coatings cause unnecessary failures – whether in the food and beverage industry or in material handling. For this purpose, igus offers powder coatings made of high-performance polymers called iglidur coating, which make surfaces significantly more wear-resistant and durable. To make it easier for users to retrofit existing systems, the company now also offers coated plates and wire mesh that can be flexibly cut to size and installed. The range is complemented by IC-05PF, the first PTFE‑free coating, which is intended in particular for applications with high hygiene requirements. The new coating solutions ensure greater process reliability and longer running times in conveyor technology.
When industrial products work but are difficult to assemble or operate, this often results in unnecessary downtime, operating errors and additional costs. igus therefore focuses on application-orientated design when developing new products. Three products have now won the prestigious iF Design Award 2026 for this approach: the international jury was impressed by a slewing ring bearing with an integrated 360° angle stop, split flange mounted bearings that speed up bearing replacement in locations that are hard to reach as well as the AI-supported igusGO app, which shows immediately which igus products can be used for designing lubrication-free applications, improving technology and saving costs.
igus, the world’s leading supplier of motion plastics and innovative technical solutions announces the opening of its own branch in Australia. This is an important step toward strengthening its role in this important and large market. This milestone was achieved in collaboration with long-standing local distribution partner Treotham Automation and is a crucial step toward providing Australian companies with faster access to igus products, advanced automation solutions, and consistently customer-focused support.
Whether storage and retrieval units, lifts or cranes: the trend towards saving space in material handling is forcing manufacturers of automation technology to rethink. One critical aspect is vertical cable guidance at heights of up to 50 metres. Design engineers often struggle with the problem that busbar systems are too inflexible and metal guide troughs for energy chains are too bulky, heavy and time-consuming to install. igus will present the solution to this dilemma igus at the specialist trade show LogiMAT 2026: the even more compact and lightweight energy supply system guidelok slimline GLSL.P.S.2, which works with fibreglass-reinforced plastics.