A new generation of polymer bearings is engineered to extend equipment life by eliminating lubrication and reducing maintenance of agricultural machines without the use of potentially contaminating lubricants.

Agricultural equipment is required to withstand harsh conditions like mud, dust, moisture, vibrations and heavy loads. Heavy-duty traditional metal bearings require regular maintenance and continuous lubrication; igus, however, asserts that its latest heavy-duty polymer bearings exceed metal bearings in terms of durability, efficiency and smoother operation.

According to igus South Africa’s Juan-Eric Davidtz, the company’s iglide polymer with dry (built-in) self-lubricating bearings have significantly improved performance and durability while also eliminating the need for external lubricants that can attract dirt and cause wear. This feature is especially beneficial in dusty environments, where traditional lubricated bearings can fail prematurely as a result of contamination.

Davidtz sites the example of a manufacturer of harvesting machines that has used iglide bearings in their mower bars for over two decades, to illustrate the longevity of igus bearings, noting that these bearings have endured extreme stresses from high impact loads to varying temperatures without the need for maintenance.

“Apart from their durability polymer bearings offer significant advantages in terms of shaft protection. Unlike metal bearings which can cause shaft damage over time, igus bearings are softer than steel shafts and therefore do not wear these potentially expensive components,” explains Davidtz.

“Even noise is reduced and the polymers’ inherent vibration-damping properties result in quieter machinery operation which is a feature appreciated in fieldwork and processing environments. In food-related agricultural applications hygiene is paramount and our blue-coloured bearings are made to be detected in the event that they are damaged or come loose. They are also resistant to chemicals, acids and high temperatures which ensures they meet the local requirements of food safety regulations,” he adds.

Reducing the need for lubrication and reducing maintenance downtime can lead to cost savings for farmers and manufacturers. In addition, the lightweight nature of polymer bearings contributes to overall machinery efficiency and can reduce energy consumption.