Rattle-free interior

Dirk Tietz | 27. March 2020

Electrically or alternatively powered vehicles are very quiet and cause hardly any disturbing engine noise. Increasing insulation of the interior, which a few years ago was only found in the premium segment, is now finding its way into almost every vehicle class. This increased quality awareness demands a lot from designers and engineers when designing bearing points. New technologies and materials are being introduced to meet changing requirements such as noise minimisation. Material developers like the plastics specialist igus produce tribologically optimised bearing materials to master these challenges. With the guiding principle “optimise technology and reduce costs”, the automotive specialists at igus provide advice to demanding system suppliers and OEMs around the globe.

But why are iglidur® plain bearings quiet and prevent interfering noise (BSR) in the interior?

Basically, polymer is much more elastic and often more flexible than comparable plain bearings made of metal. Vibrations are absorbed much better.

To avoid direct contact of metals, a lubricating film must always be provided between the materials. Due to integrated solid lubricants, iglidur® plain bearings do not require additional lubrication. There are no oils or greases that can evaporate over the years and cause noise at the bearing points.

Thin PTFE coatings on conventional metallic plain bearings react very sensitively to dirt and edge load. If the coating of a metal bushing is damaged or even destroyed, unwanted noises are generated. Polymer plain bearings, on the other hand, have a homogeneous structure. Therefore coating cannot be destroyed. The solid lubricants are released during the wear of the service life and ensure a constant coefficient of friction and low noise development.  

The plain bearing specialists from igus are happy to present further application possibilities or help with bearing design.

dtietz@igus.net