igus UK at Midlands Design & Manufacturing Show 2012

Available in five standard igus materials, the xiros range of bearings is suitable for a variety of applications, ranging from medical equipment, pumps and measurement machines, through to transport and conveying technology - particularly in the industrial sectors of chemicals, food, laboratory equipment and packaging.

Lubricant and maintenance-free, xiros polymer ball bearings can endure temperatures of up to +150degC, are highly corrosion resistant, can be washed and cleaned, are non-magnetic and are lightweight. The plastic ball bearings have excellent friction coefficients to give high performance and long service life, even in demanding applications. As a result, users can make overall cost savings compared with conventional metal ball bearings, claims igus UK.

Also on show will be a range of the company's energy chains, including the fully-enclosed RX energy tubes. The igus RX range features smooth, domed outer contours for protection against accumulation of debris and chips, as well as dust, dirt, oil, high humidity levels and temperature extremes. The RX e-tube is suited to short, self-supporting lengths such as those found inside machine tools. They can be delivered directly to the machine as ready-to-fit units, known as readychains, assembled to size and fitted with cables and hoses, suitable connectors and even including a new guide rail, which enables users to reduce assembly times and storage costs.

Connection joints for humanoid systems

A complete modular system, the igus robolink range of lightweight, maintenance and corrosion-free connection joints for humanoid systems will also be on display. Suitable for use in areas of general lightweight construction, handling, automation and camera applications, robolink can be configured and expanded to many designs and saves cost because there is no need for expensive milling, cutting or intricate assembly work.

The system is driven by wires, and four or five degree-of-freedom systems can easily be constructed by connecting joints together. The systems can be supplied with NEMA 17 or 23 stepper motors in a housing unit.

For more information on plastic bearings, energy chains and cabling products and to meet igus UK's experts, visit stand 1641 at Midlands Design & Manufacturing Show 2012, NEC, Birmingham, 23-24 May, or visit the website at www.igus.co.uk. To arrange an appointment, contact lgolding@igus.co.uk.