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Automotive bearings
No grease. Just low-friction, robust, maintenance-free bearings for the automotive industry
The automotive industry has exceptionally high standards and requirements when it comes to components. Not only do the component parts need to withstand high loads, high speeds and occasionally high temperatures, they need to offer high wear, long service and exceptionally smooth operation. We are seeing an upturn in EV companies requesting and designing grease free, maintenance free and non outgassing PTFE free materials into car interiors and with the increase in electric car manufacturing, this demand will continue to grow.
Automotive bearings are used throughout modern day vehicles, helping not only to reduce friction but to improve reliability. They are used in steering columns, pedals, seat adjustments and many other areas. But it is important when designing vehicles to try and reduce weight and eliminate grease where possible, which is why many automotive manufactures are choosing iglidur polymer bearings over conventional metal ones.
Shop bearings suitable for automotive
We are confident in our bearings abilities.
The Automotive industry is renowned for its high demand for perfection and safety. Neither should be taken lightly so engineers have a tendency to stick to what they know. But, times are evolving, technology is improving and manufactures in the automotive industry are looking for new ideas, products and technology. Designers and manufacturers are exploring different ways to reduce costs and downtime.
Polymer bearings are perceived to some as "new technology" however the reality is, they have been used in vehicles for decades. Thanks to their lightweight yet durable properties, many companies are changing to plastic over metal. It reduces weight, costs and most important requires no grease or oil.
At igus, we thoroughly test our components in our in house laboratory, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, tests are continually running. This ensures we are able to confidently predict service life based on parameters inputted to give you the confidence in our products.
Why do automotive manufactures choose polymer bearings over metal ones?
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Reduced weight
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No lubrication
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PTFE-free options
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Long predictable service life
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Vibration resistant
Available to ship in 24 hours
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Chemical resistant
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Cost effective
Automotive bearings in use
Frequently asked questions
Automotive bearings are bearings used in automotive applications, such as vehicle hinges, linkage systems, engine compartments, coolant pumps and more . There is no specific type of bearing used as its dependant on the specific application. These can be metal, plastic, 3d printed; any materials that can withstand high loads and speeds, and provide smooth operation.
Absolutely. There can be controversy around whether plastic bearings can withstand the challenges faced in many automotive applications, but with many car manufactures trying to reduce weight, cost and oil, polymer bearings are becoming increasingly more dominant in the market.
Depending on the bearing used, they might. Many conventional and some polymer bearings require lubrication to ensure that they operate smoothly and reduce wear. If you are using self-lubricating polymer ones, like igus bearings, these do not require lubrication.
Lots of materials are used. Aluminium for lightweight applications, stainless steel for high corrosive applications, polymers, 3d printed materials. It all depends on the application and the requirement.
You have a few options; you can speak to an expert within the company and they can advise you, you can use configurators that many companies offer, you can request samples to test.
Automotive bearings service life depend solely on the application parameters and the materials used. It is best to speak to an expert to get them to help specify the best material for your application.
Related information
Whitepapers, ISO certificates and datasheets.
ISO certificate
ISO 9001:2015Automotive seating brochure
Digital Automotive Seating brochurePFAS whitepaper
PFAS whitepaperContact us
Contact details
Seán Ryan086 0329555Submit form
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