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.
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