A 3D-printed product turner designed to reorient cans and containers for downstream processing in high-volume packaging environments has been engineered by polymer specialist igus.

The solution uses tribologically-optimised polymers called iglidur i150 tribo-filament which is highly wear-resistant and can be 3D-printed on demand for end-use applications. These processes operate under continuous load and friction where traditional parts can wear quickly, causing stoppages and increased maintenance costs.

According to igus product manager Juan-Eric Davidtz the material used in the manufacture of the product is specially engineered for high abrasion resistance with excellent strength and mechanical properties. Unlike standard polylactic acid or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene polymers, the iglidur i150’s engineered compound also contains solid lubricants that enable it to run dry with no external lubrication while offering longer service life in sliding and rotating applications, explains Davidtz. The material’s inherent wear resistance means that these critical elements retain dimensional stability longer than conventional printed plastics, reducing part replacements and extending maintenance intervals.

The company says it offers demonstration models that are designed to reorient aluminium cans and polyethylene terephthalate containers on high-speed conveyors but also able to develop solutions for other packaging needs, according to clients’ requirements.

“With it being 3D printed it unlocks fast prototyping and rapid scale-up from prototype to production-grade part, which is a big advantage in these fast-paced manufacturing environments. Importantly for food and beverage packaging lines, our iglidur i150 is compliant with EU Regulation 10/2011 for food contact applications when appropriately specified,” says Davidtz.

He adds that the solution interfaces with the company’s own 3D printing service, which supports a range of motion and wear parts, from plain bearings and gears to custom rollers, in igus materials, offering lubrication-free and maintenance-free performance.