Tougher automotive industry bushes
Second Quarter 2023
Shaft power components
The automotive industry in South Africa places high demands on plain bearings (bushes). Bushes are used for everything from engine compartments to windscreen wipers, where traditional materials do not always stand the test of time. This has prompted German polymer manufacturer, igus to develop alternative bushings made from its new iglidur H5 high-performance plastic.
Bushes in the chassis, gearbox, convertible top systems or pedals should be robust, durable and corrosion-free. When used in windscreen wipers, for instance, they should also be resistant to a wide range of chemicals. Lightweight construction is also important to increase range and reduce power consumption.
“With the new material, we have now raised the bar even higher,” says Ian Hewat, managing director of igus South Africa. “It is 30% more wear resistant. It also has significantly improved impact resistance and flexibility due to its fibre reinforced construction, and is resistant to high loads and force application.”
Automotive engineering has many applications for the new plain bearings. Igus has therefore added fibres and filling materials to the base polymer. These enable the plain bearings to withstand high forces, edge loads, impacts and shocks, even under continuous load. The new material is also resistant to road salt, chemicals, fuels, oils and temperatures up to 200°C. It is therefore also suitable for components in the engine compartment, such as water and coolant pumps. The new polymer bushes can also be used in pumps in chemical plants and other industrial applications,” explains Hewat.
Further reading:
Single DDI cable solution simplifies connectivity
SEW-EURODRIVE
Shaft power components
Cabling can be one of the most challenging aspects of automation and drive system installations, often leading to delays, faults and inefficiencies. SEW-EURODRIVE offers a solution that simplifies connectivity, its innovative Digital Data Interface technology combined with a single cable system.
Read more...
The advantages of using an adjustable cable gland
Shaft power components
Pratley continues to demonstrate its engineering leadership with its innovative adjustable cable gland, designed to significantly reduce maintenance and labour costs across a wide range of industrial applications.
Read more...
The critical role of check valves
Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa
Shaft power components
In fluid power systems, the performance and reliability of the entire operation often hinge on components that are small in size but significant in function. Among these, the check valve stands out as a fundamental yet frequently overlooked element.
Read more...
Bearing failure analysis is a perfect solution for Tongaat Hulett
SKF South Africa
Shaft power components
A collaborative bearing failure analysis conducted by SKF and Authorised Distributor, Bearings Services Durban at one of South Africa’s leading sugar refinery plants in KwaZulu-Natal provided tremendous value for the customer.
Read more...
Heavy-duty V-belts for aggressive conditions
Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Shaft power components
BMG’s specialised Gates belting range includes Predator V-belts, engineered for optimal performance in Africa’s harshest conditions.
Read more...
Vibration monitoring in three axes with IO-Link
ifm - South Africa
Shaft power components
Machine vibrations are important indicators when it comes to assessing the current condition of a machine. Damage to rolling element bearings and other machine components can be detected at an early stage before costly machine downtime occurs.
Read more...
Efficient maintenance counts
Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Shaft power components
BMG’s total plant management solutions encompass a technical advisory service for maintenance programmes that includes correct chain and sprocket selection, which is a critical factor in any power transmission system.
Read more...
Optimise your plant assets
SKF South Africa
Shaft power components
The SKF Rotating Equipment Performance Centre provides anyone from anywhere with easy access to a comprehensive suite of advanced condition monitoring, analytical and diagnostic solutions.
Read more...
The importance of original branded bolt securing products
Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Shaft power components
BMG is concerned about the proliferation of counterfeit merchandise, and the dangers associated with using inferior goods.
Read more...
Advanced solutions for valves
Bearing Man Group T/A BMG
Shaft power components
BMG delivers state-of-the-art valve solutions to diverse industries across Africa, in collaboration with InterApp, a global leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality valves.
Read more...
printer friendly version