At the 2008 Hanover show Igus presented new high-temperature micro-bearings made of wear-resistant iglidur tribo-plastic. These bearings have an inner diameter as small as 0.7mm for lubrication-free bearing tasks at high-temperatures. The bearings are made of the special polymer iglidur X, for example, which is suitable for continuous operation in temperatures of up to 250degC (or 315degC for short periods); it is also resistant to chemicals, UV and radiation up to 1x105 Gy, can take extremely high pressures and has low moisture absorption.
For some years now, Igus has been producing tiny components in the millimetre range which are extremely precise, lightweight and maintenance-free. Material selection, design and production depend on the respective project and now customised new materials are also available. Applications are found in micro-motors, for IT applications, in medical technology - such as in pumps or flexible endoscopy instruments - in metrology, vibrating units, vehicle interiors, tiny fans and blowers.
At the other end of the scale, Igus also used the Hanover event to launch what is claimed to be the largest plastic energy chain in the world, with an internal height of 300mm. This enormous E4.350 is resistant to mineral oil and seawater, and was developed for use on oil platforms among other applications.