igus presented 144 brand new products in Hall 17 at this year's Hanover Show; these products are all the result of intensive research and development. The plastic experts showcased a wide range of products and materials, including the world's first 3D printing tribo-filament.

Abrasion-resistant 3D printing material and tape

igus presented it first 3D printer filament, designed using the same features of its iglidur self-lubricating bearings. The filament, specially developed for moving applications, is up to 50 times more abrasion resistant than conventional 3D printed materials. Now, quality prototypes or special parts can be printed and still have the excellent wear and friction properties of iglidur plain bearings. The filament is offered in a standard 1.75 mm thickness, and other sizes will become available over time.

Also on display was the new, 0.5 mm thick tribo-tape, made from iglidur A160. The tape can be bonded in many ways, providing freedom of design in the construction of tribologically stressed sliding surfaces. The tribo-tape is characterised by its high wear properties and low wear rates, and is also FDA-compliant. Additionally, igus' popular bar-stock is now available in round rods, virtually doubling the variety of materials available for various custom machined applications. These round rods allow design freedom for engineers to choose the right materials for almost any application, from food-compliance to underwater use.

And there is a new material available to help improve applications - the iglidur W360, specifically developed for exceptionally high service life in continuous-running applications. High wear durability and temperature resistance, plus an outstanding price-performance ratio make this material a truly all-around, long-lasting product.

An entire range of self-lubricating products

The rugged drylin SLW protect drive system is suitable for harsher environments. The linear table's lead screw is protected by the resistant drylin W frame. Both the lead screw nut and lead screw, as well as the drylin W linear guide can be safely and easily moved. For less harsh environments and for more ease of use, the AWMR hollow aluminium shaft works together with the drylin polymer linear bearings in 12 and 16 mm diameters. With a wall thickness of 2 mm, it is an extremely lightweight system, which is suitable for applications where weight and/or speed are important.