Regarding the latest innovations in the food packaging industry, Igus, the German-based motion plastics manufacturer, has developed a new wear-resistant bearing for high-temperature applications. Iglide AX500 is no match for heat, electrostatic charges or friction. Durable and reliable, this material can handle the high speeds and intense heat that frequent the food and beverage packaging industry. It is designed to offer continuous performance while keeping costs low on all ends.

Robust and conductive

Built as a development upon the previous long operating A500 bearing, this electrically discharged material is meant to outperform its predecessor. Created specifically for the food industry, there are no issues with this product encountering food materials. High production speeds leave packaging equipment, especially bearings, vulnerable to wear quickly. The AX500 polymer achieves maintenance-free bearing points.

Source: Igus

Igus’ independent, in-house lab compared both bearings through vigorous rotation testing. The AX500 completed a coefficient of wear up to three times as good as the A500.

Wear-resistance bearings and safety

Beyond being appropriate for high temperatures, the Iglide AX500 also has great chemical resistance; harsh solvents will not damage the bearings. The polymer is tribologically optimized with solid lubrication and requires no additional lubricants, making it environmentally friendly. Since these are injection molded polymer bearings, they both weigh and cost less than standard stainless-steel bearings.

In dusty production situations, sparks can lead to explosions and operators can experience shocks. Materials can also gather static electricity as they move down the production line. The Iglide bearings are designed to dissipate electricity.

Specialty orders handled in days

The Iglide AX500 bearings are available in 6 to 20 mm (standard with or without a flange). Different sizes can be quickly created via injection molding on site in Providence, Rhode Island. This process gets products made and shipped to their destination within days, while maintaining a comfortable price point. Iglide AX500 fully complies with Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011.

For more information, visit: Igus.com