Lubrication has long been an integral part of industrial operations, akin to the daily cup of coffee for many professionals. However, with an annual global expenditure of a staggering $240 billion on lubricants and the accompanying high costs of maintenance personnel, it’s evident that the reliance on traditional lubrication methods comes at a significant expense. To address this, igus, a leading provider of motion plastics solutions, is spearheading a clean revolution in the industry with its lubrication-free plastics technology.
At the Hannover Messe 2024, igus is showcasing 247 new products, each contributing to the vision of achieving “zero lubrication” in industrial operations. By leveraging 60 years of expertise in motion plastics and harnessing millions of test data points, igus has developed AI-powered solutions that enable users to seamlessly transition to lubrication-free movements in their systems.
One of the groundbreaking innovations presented is the igusGO app, which empowers users to explore lubrication-free solutions for various applications, from excavators to water turbines. Through voice, photo, or text input, users can access proven solutions tailored to their specific needs, backed by data from millions of real-world applications.
The positive impact of lubrication-free plastics on companies’ profitability and sustainability is underscored by a study from RWTH Aachen University. One notable example cited in the study is a renowned beer bottler that saved €6 million annually by implementing lubrication-free polymer bearings across its conveyor belts, resulting in substantial cost savings and a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
Tobias Vogel, CEO of Plain Bearings and Linear Technology at igus, emphasizes the transformative potential of lubrication-free plastics: “Today’s role of AI is overwhelming. All of a sudden, we can turn all the ‘zero lubrication’ proof of the last decades into a safe and simple tool for everyone in the industry.”
Furthermore, igus is introducing a range of new products aimed at expanding the possibilities of lubrication-free technology across various industries. These include high-load plain bearings for construction machinery and cranes, PTFE- and PFAS-free materials for bearings, and a slewing ring bearing made from a blend of wood and high-performance plastic.
Additionally, intelligent condition monitoring solutions and innovative linear systems are being showcased to enhance operational efficiency and reliability. As the industry embraces the clean revolution led by igus, the journey towards “zero lubrication” continues, promising to redefine industrial operations and drive sustainable growth for years to come.
