• Igus (India) Private Limited

Plastic for Continuous Use in Steam

Igus, the motion plastics specialist, has launched iglidur HSD350, a new high-performance Plastic for Continuous Use in Steam. Free of lubrication, maintenance and corrosion, this new material is a low priced alternative to metallic options. This is an all-rounder in the product range for steam sterilisation during autoclaving. Particularly in the food and medical industries, the new plain bearing material clearly displays its advantages over metallic bearings. Autoclaving is one of the most important methods for killing bacteria during the production of foodstuffs, medicines and in the cleaning of medical products. In the standard method, heating to 121°C at 2 bar takes place in the pressure vessel for 15 to 20 minutes, or to 134°C for 2 to 3 minutes at 3 bar steam pressure with particularly resistant bacteria. For metallic bearings a special autoclavable lubrication is often necessary. However, the sterilisation affect is reduced significantly for product that uses grease. Therefore polymer bearings are offered as a lubrication-free and maintenance-free alternative, whose materials are resistant to heat, pressure and moisture. HSD350 is suitable for the hygienic continuous use even for regular sterilisation. The new material can withstand temperatures up to 180°C continuously and temporarily up to 210°C. Because of the corrosion-free property, iglidur HSD350 is ideal for use in wet areas and displays a low moisture absorption and thermal expansion there. The new material also proves to be extremely resistant to media and doesn't get ruined even in hot steam sterilisation, and is available from a quantity of one piece and available for immediate delivery from 24 hours.