Engineered plastics from German polymer manufacturer, igus continue to revolutionise mechanical systems across various industries worldwide, with a pledge to ‘improve what moves’ by replacing moving steel components with polymer equivalents. The igus range of polymer bearings, spindles and energy chain cable management systems have revolutionised machines in the lifting, agricultural, and manufacturing industries, and is steadily being introduced to machines in other industries to improve performance and longevity.
Managing director of igus South Africa, Ian Hewat says the range is known for its light weight, durability and lubrication-free operation, and has become indispensable in improving machine efficiency, reliability and longevity. From complex robotic systems to heavy-duty industrial machinery, the benefits of motion plastics by igus are vast and diverse, and offer significant advantages in design and performance.
“One of the standout features of our motion plastics is the tribological self-lubricating property, which eliminates the need for external lubrication. This not only reduces maintenance costs, but also prevents environmental contamination caused by leaking oils or greases. In industries like food processing or pharmaceuticals, where hygiene is paramount, these components offer an invaluable advantage by ensuring clean and oil-free operations.
“Our bearings, linear guides, and bushings provide smooth and frictionless motion without the need for continuous maintenance, translating to reduced downtime and extended machine lifespan. They are also designed to withstand highly demanding environments such as extreme temperatures, chemicals, dirt, or high levels of moisture. Here they perform reliably under stress, and unlike traditional metal parts that can corrode, seize or wear down in these conditions, igus polymers are resistant to corrosion and wear, making them ideal for use in outdoor equipment or in areas with high exposure to the elements.
For machines in industries like agriculture, mining and construction, the robust nature of igus motion plastics ensures uninterrupted operation, even in the harshest conditions. In industries such as automotive, aerospace and logistics, reducing the overall weight of components directly leads to improved energy consumption, faster operation speeds, and lower operational costs.
“In robotic systems, for example, using lightweight polymer bearings and gears improves the speed and precision of movements, while decreasing the energy required to drive the motors. The reduction in mass not only increases efficiency, but also reduces wear on other components of the machine, further extending its overall lifespan,” says Hewat.
He explains that in addition to these components, igus is also synonymous with cable carriers designed to guide and protect cables, hoses and other conduits in constantly moving machinery. Its Echain carriers are engineered to ensure smooth, uninterrupted operation by preventing cables from twisting, tangling, or wearing out due to continuous motion.
“Unlike traditional systems like festoons, cable reels or drag chains, which often have limitations in terms of movement range, and can result in cable damage or failure, the igus e-chains provide flexible movement with minimal wear. They offer several advantages over these older systems, including greater design flexibility, lower maintenance requirements, and improved longevity for cables. E-chains are extensively used in industries like robotics, automation and material handling. Moreover, they eliminate the need for cumbersome, space-consuming cable loops seen in festoons, or the mechanical limitations of cable reels. This results in more compact, efficient and reliable machine designs.
In addition to their performance and durability benefits, igus bearings and bushings contribute significantly to noise reduction in machinery. Traditional metal components can generate high levels of noise because of friction and vibrations, especially in fast-moving or heavy-load applications. Polymer bearings do not transmit nearly as much noise vibration as steel, and operate with minimal friction. This drastically reduces the amount of noise produced by machines. This is especially beneficial in industries where quieter operations are crucial for improving the working environment and meeting ever-stricter noise regulations. By integrating igus motion plastics, manufacturers can enhance the comfort and safety of workspaces, while also improving machine performance.
| Tel: | +27 11 312 1848 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| www: | www.igus.co.za |
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