igus develops PTFE-free plain bearings

In recent years, intensive research and comprehensive testing have been conducted by igus's dedicated in-house materials development department. Their primary objective was to eliminate PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) from their standard bearing materials.

Lars Butenschön, head of the iglide® Plain Bearing Technology Business Unit, confirmed, 'A PTFE-free variant of iglide® G material has been successfully developed.'

This development is notable due to the widespread use of iglide® G bearings, which are recognized for their exceptional wear resistance and low friction.

Maintaining the established performance characteristics of iglide® G bearings without PTFE demanded significant development efforts. However, meticulous formulation engineering has ensured that vital material properties remain unchanged, including temperature stability, mechanical strength, and shrinkage behavior. This was verified through rigorous tests conducted in igus's 4,100-square-foot test laboratory, underscoring the company's extensive expertise in tribologically optimized polymers, which have been developed over the past 60 years.

igus also announced PTFE-free versions of its iglide® X and iglide® H series. iglide® X bearings, valued for their high-temperature resistance and use in aerospace applications, now omit PTFE entirely. Similarly, the iglide H series, known for its excellent moisture resistance and suitability for the marine and chemical industries, has also transitioned to PTFE-free formulations. In 2024, igus eliminated PTFE from its popular iglide J and W300 materials.

Butenschön emphasized, 'PTFE-free solutions are now available for the five most common iglide® bearing materials, which collectively cover approximately 80% of global iglide® applications.'

This advancement enables users to transition seamlessly to new PTFE-free materials without needing costly adjustments or customized solutions. Furthermore, pricing remains unchanged mainly, ensuring economic stability for customers.

Meeting regulatory challenges

This innovation arrives at a critical time when many companies face uncertainty due to potential new restrictions on PFAS usage by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). PFAS, known for their water-, grease-, and dirt-repellent properties, are integral components in numerous consumer and industrial products. PTFE, a common member of the PFAS group, has traditionally provided self-lubricating properties to polymer bearings.

Acknowledging customer concerns over potential regulatory changes, Butenschön noted, 'Many customers are actively seeking alternatives due to anticipated tightening of PFAS regulations or possible bans.'

igus is thus proactively increasing investment in research and development initiatives to eliminate reliance on PFAS substances, supporting customers in achieving future regulatory compliance.