igus Introduces PFAS- and PTFE-Free Bearing Materials for Enhanced Environmental Sustainability

New endurance material iglide JPF supplements the wide range of wear-resistant PFAS- and PTFE-free polymer bearings

15 OCTOBER 2024 – igus®, a global leader in motion plastics, has developed a new polymer bearing material, iglide® JPF, that is entirely free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This innovation marks an important step forward in the company’s efforts to create environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional self-lubricating plain bearings.

PFAS, including PTFE, are widely used in various industries due to their resistance to water, heat, and dirt, making them key components in the production of wear-resistant, self-lubricating plain bearings. However, PFAS have been criticized for their environmental persistence, as they degrade slowly and can pose risks to both human health and the environment.

To address these concerns, igus has introduced iglide JPF, a plain bearing material that delivers high wear resistance and durability without the use of PFAS or PTFE. This new material aligns with the growing global regulatory focus on limiting the use of harmful substances in industrial and consumer products.

Preparing for Regulatory Changes

The development of iglide JPF comes in response to increasing regulatory pressure in Europe. In February 2023, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposed a ban on at least 10,000 PFAS compounds. A final decision from the European Commission is anticipated in 2025, with regulations potentially coming into effect as early as 2026. The ban would impact multiple industries, including manufacturing, prompting companies like igus to proactively seek alternative materials.

Recognizing the need for swift adaptation, igus has dedicated resources to developing PFAS-free solutions.

“From the onset of the discussions about a potential PFAS ban in Europe, we prioritized the research and development of alternative materials,” said Dr. Magnus Orth, Head of the igus Material Center. “Our in-house material development and compounding capabilities enable us to quickly respond to regulatory changes and offer new solutions that meet market demands.”

The iglide JPF Solution

igus’ new iglide JPF material is based on the well-established endurance properties of iglide J, but without the use of PTFE. It is a dry-running and wear-resistant polymer that delivers comparable friction and wear performance to iglide J, as demonstrated in extensive tests conducted at igus’ 4,000m² in-house laboratory.

“Users who have relied on iglide J for their machines and systems can now opt for a PTFE-free alternative with equivalent performance,” said Lars Butenschön, Head of the iglide Plain Bearing Technology Business Unit. “Our goal is to transition our standard materials to PTFE-free formulations. We are already in the process of developing alternatives for materials such as iglide X and iglide W300, and early test results have been very promising.”

A Commitment to Sustainability

With the launch of iglide JPF, igus is reinforcing its commitment to developing environmentally sustainable products that comply with the latest regulatory standards. As the company continues to innovate, it remains focused on providing high-performance solutions that reduce environmental impact and meet the evolving needs of its customers. For more information about iglide materials without PFAS compounds, please visit https://www.igus.com/plastic-bearings/resources/iglide-pfas