Plastics supplier igus recently unveiled a series of smart plastics supporting the industrial trend to incorporate sensing technologies that allow for continuous monitoring and proactive maintenance of machines, motion systems and mechanical components.

Smart plastics from igus feature embedded RFID chips or other sensors to support condition monitoring of components while they operate.Its isense line of plastic products embed sensing and communication capabilities to cables, energy chains and linear bearings, according to igus. The company says the components will help plant operators establish predictive maintenance schedules, reduce unplanned outages and increase system uptime.

The isense products includes sensors and modules that use technologies such as built-in RFID chips or strain gauges to detect wear during operation and emit alarms when repair or replacement may be necessary.