Self-Lubricating Plastic Bearing for Continuous High Rotational Speeds

With the new iglide L500 material, igus, the motion plastics expert, has announced the release of their newest specialist bearing solution, ideally suited for continuous operation in high-speed rotation applications under low loads. The L500 material combines extraordinary wear resistance in long-running, high speed applications. Continuous rotational speeds of more than 16 ft./s are possible, and the L500 material performs even under extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature ranging from -148º to 482º F, as well as media contact. The L500 material is characterized by its low moisture absorption and thermal expansion, among others.

For applications with high speeds and low loads, sintered bearings are often used, in electric motors, for instance. Due to their structure, sintered bearings are more vulnerable to shocks and edge loads than solid bearings. Additionally, a sintered bearing’s oil impregnation limits the operating temperature range, and is unsuitable for operation without external lubrication. In comparison tests between sintered bearings and bearings made of the iglide L500 material, the wear rates of sintered bearings were higher in all tested speeds, in some cases by more than five-fold.

These positive material properties of the iglide L500 allow the self-lubricating operation of electric motors, fans, and ventilators, where sintered bearings were previously used. The standard range of RoHS-compliant L500 bearings will be available from stock this summer. Additionally, the L500 material will also be available for the development and production of customer-specific bearing solutions.