Self-lubricating bearings driven around the world

In total, 56 bearing points were replaced with iglidur components, in applications such as windscreen wipers, brake pedal, seat adjusters and throttle valves, of which none have failed or had to be replaced.

The self-lubricating iglidur bearings provide a more efficient solution for car designers looking for dirt- and chemical-resistant bearings that operate more quietly than their metallic counterparts. In applications such as car seats, igus says there has been a migration from metal on metal, to metal on plastic, to fully plastic. The noise damping and quiet running properties of iglidur bearings, which take a high static load, improve driver comfort. In addition, iglidur bearings are up to seven times lighter than metal counterparts, thus reducing the overall weight of the car and helping save fuel.

“50% of igus bearings produced are now used in cars. The iglidur car is a great testament to how igus parts are already being used in different bearing points throughout a vehicle,” said Matthew Aldridge, Managing Director, igus. “With 40 standard iglidur materials, ranging from iglidur X for corrosive environments to iglidur J260 for plastic shafts, we offer the world’s broadest range of friction-optimised polymer plain bearings.”

During its travels, the iglidur car has been driven through India, China, Taiwan, Japan, Brazil, Canada and the USA, visiting customers as well as doing a bit of sightseeing. The iglidur car will now be traveling the length of the UK, seeing Edinburgh Castle, the Angel of the North and Buckingham Palace. “Importantly, for every kilometre travelled, igus is donating €1 to charities in communities where the iglidur car passes through,” continues Matthew. “We have chosen the Gosset Ward at Northampton General Hospital, an ICU for new-born children, which is close to our UK headquarters.”