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Product Focus: Seals and gaskets

| By Scott Jenkins, Chemical Engineering magazine

Bearing materials without PFAS chemicals

Due to their water, heat and dirt resistance, polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are key materials in the production of self-lubricating plain bearings in a variety of industries. However, PFAS chemicals degrade slowly, posing risks to both human health and the environment. Addressing these concerns, iglide® JPF is a plain bearing material delivering high wear resistance and durability without the use of PFAS or PTFE (photo). This dry-running, wear-resistant polymer offers comparable friction and wear performance to iglide® J, and its development is a response to growing global regulatory pressures to limit the use of harmful substances in industrial and consumer products. This company has in-house material-development and compounding capabilities that enable it to quickly respond to regulatory changes and offer new solutions that meet market demands. The PTFE-free alternative has equivalent performance, according to the company, and its goal is to transition its standard materials to PTFE-free formulations. — Igus Inc., East Providence, R.I.

www.igus.com