IGUS has developed lubrication-free plastic ball bearings in response to rising customer demand for maintenance-free roller bearing solutions.
The iglidur ball bearings represent the preliminary and primary steps towards technically optimised polymer ball bearings to be available ex-stock with a predictable service life.
The inner and outer races and cage of the new polymer ball bearings are made of a high-performance ‘iglidur’ material, with the corrosion-free rolling elements made of stainless steel.
Glass balls are available for maximum corrosion resistance, with ceramic as a potential option for the future.
Deep-groove ball bearings are available for shaft diameters of 3, 6, 8 and 10mm and are temperature-resistant up to 15°C.
While the dry-running polymer ball bearings do not compare with permanently lubricated metal roller bearings with regards to service life, speed, and permissible loads, in many applications this is not an important factor; instead, low friction values and minimum driving forces are the basic requirement.
As igus dry-running polymer ball bearings do not require any lubrication, they are compliant with food industry standards.
Igus polymer ball bearings are available ex-stock from Treotham Automation and can be used in combination with potentially corrosive elements, such as chemicals.