A new elastic double joint from plastics specialist igus is proving to be a perfect – and quiet – solution for the machine building sector.
The igubal GPZM coupling joint, which was officially launched at the end of 2020, is lubrication-free, maintenance-free and 20% more flexible than its conventional alternative.
Dean Aylott, Product Manager at igus UK, said: “This additional flexibility is due to the use of the new igus housing material, which ensures the joint’s ball stud remains firmly enclosed and dirt cannot penetrate into the bearing. This new double joint also helps reduce noise levels when in use and is proving particularly successful with labelling machines.”
Dean added: “Coupling joints are exposed to a range of loads, permanent vibrations, high tensile forces and compressive strength – so the demands made on them are extremely high. In these igus elastic double joints no external lubricants are necessary, and they can be used at temperatures of up to 300 degrees Celsius.”
In the automotive industry alone, the double joint is being used in many applications from sensor connections, actuators, and valve flaps to gear shift mechanisms and turbochargers.
New material makes coupling joint more elastic
The new igus double joint is extremely flexible, resilient and has been rigorously tested in the state-of-the-art laboratory at igus.
The housing material used in the product ensures that the ball stud is tightly enclosed when the joint moves – sealed against dust and dirt.
Liquefied dust was injected into the joint during the testing process, resulting in no negative influence on the product. Tests also revealed that these new double joints last 20% longer than a product made of polyamide.
