The debate over a potential PFAS ban in the EU is causing uncertainty in the commercial vehicle and automotive industries. Consequently, there is a growing need for components that will meet regulatory requirements in the long term and offer companies investment and planning security. “Regardless of the final political decisions, we want to offer PTFE-free and PFAS-tested solutions that will not be affected by potential future restrictions,” explains Dirk Tietz, Head of Automotive at igus subsidiaries. igus already offers a broad portfolio of PTFE-free and PFAS-tested products such as plain bearings, linear guides, and cables. “With nearly 30 PTFE-free plain bearing materials and over 40 materials in which we can already exclude the 96 PFAS considered critical, we offer a wide range of solutions. Starting in 2025, for example, we will be able to provide PTFE-free solutions for around 75 percent of plain bearing applications,” explains Dirk Tietz.

Operators in the commercial vehicle sector, in particular, benefit from the material properties of igus high-performance plastics. In trucks, for example, igus plain bearings are used in hinges, in the cab’s tilt mechanism, and in the brakes. In buses, they have proven themselves in entry systems, pantographs, wheelchair ramps, and passenger seats, among other applications. Unlike traditional metal bearings, igus plain bearings operate without lubrication and are resistant to dirt, moisture, and corrosion. This reduces maintenance requirements and increases reliability even under demanding operating conditions. At the same time, the bearings offer high wear resistance and are up to seven times lighter than comparable metal solutions. Especially in electrified commercial vehicles, the reduced weight can help improve energy efficiency and range.

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