While these properties have made PFAS the perfect choice for many applications from non-stick saucepans to industrial bearings, their persistence in the environment and potential health risks are a cause for concern.
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed a sweeping ban on over 10,000 PFAS compounds, with a final decision and implementation expected in the coming years.
This regulatory development is compelling businesses across varioussectors to rethink their material strategies. Among the leaders in this transition is igus®, a global motion plastics specialist with a UK facility in Northampton, which has proactively developed a new line of PFAStested and PTFE-free bearings. These developments not only addressregulatory compliance but also aligns with growing demands for sustainable engineering solutions.
PFAS, including the widely used polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), have long been valued in industrial applications for their exceptional wear resistance and self-lubricating properties. However, the threat they pose to the environment and their potential toxicity have made them a target for global regulatory action. For manufacturers, this presents multiplechallenges: ensuring compliance while maintaining performance standards.
igus® has responded to the changes by highlighting the variety of their bearings that already conform with the upcoming standards as well as their newly developed and PTFE-free ‘iglidur FPF’ material which offersa sustainable alternative without compromising on the essential features their other ranges can provide, such as durability and efficiency.
Designed to match the performance of their existing materials, they aredry-running, wear-resistant, and tested extensively in the igus in-house laboratory. This ensures that customers can transition to this greener solution without sacrificing reliability.
The implications of this development are significant. Industries such as automotive, packaging, and medical technology, where PFAS use is commonplace, can now adopt materials that meet both regulatory and operational demands. igus® has also engaged in extensive customer consultations and sector-specific R&D to ensure that their PFAS solutions are tailored to real-world requirements.
Beyond product innovation, igus® embeds sustainability into its broader business strategy, investing in circular economy initiatives, including the igus® chainge recycling program, which allows customers to return used energy chains for responsible recycling. Additionally, igus® is increasing transparency through environmental product declarations (EPDs), helping customers make informed, eco-conscious decisions.
In a landscape where environmental responsibility is becoming a necessity, igus® stands out not just for its technical ingenuity, but for its proactive, values-driven approach. As PFAS regulations loom, these PTFE-free bearings offer a glimpse into a cleaner, more sustainable industrial future.
Find out more about the bearings range here: https://www.igus.co.uk/info/iglidur-pfas
