Very lightweight, high stiffness and non-magnetic–these are the main advantages of the carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) over metal. For applications where these requirements are essential, such as aerospace or medical technology, igus now makes the lightest linear guide in its magnitude made of carbon which is available for up to 2000 mm stroke.

Here, it is not only the support material that is made of CFRP, but the whole rail, where the system consisting of rail and carriage is up to 40% lighter than one with an aluminium rail and even up to 60% lighter than one with a steel rail. This weight saving may constitute money for users, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries. Other industries too where high dynamic movements play a role, such as robotics, are increasingly using the weight advantages of CFRP components.

Since igus has been making shafts made of carbon for more than ten years, the plastics expert has already done a lot of testing and has gathered experience. “Here, it has been shown that iglidur L250 has the optimum wear and friction coefficients in combination with carbon shafts,” said Stefan Niermann, head of division drylin linear and drive technology. “According to the test results so far, this also applies to the new rails.”

Available as a completely metal-free toothed belt axis

The high profile geometry of the carbon rail enables an attachment by means of clamping jaws, which makes a complicated mechanical reworking unnecessary. Moreover, the rail with high profile is the basis for a completely metal-free toothed belt axis, which is available in lengths up to 1000 mm. Here a deflection consisting of a carbon axis, a plastic gear and xiros plastic ball bearings from the igus range is used. Thus, it can be used without restrictions in X-ray equipment in medical technology. Here a major feature is the carbon guide, which like all products from igus does not require any external lubrication and thus is maintenance free.

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