Configuration at the push of a button: New igus online tool creates shafts in seconds

Lay out and order shafts easily in seconds with the new drylin shaft configurator from igus. (Source: igus GmbH)

Constructing the right shaft for an application is not easy without CAD software and in-depth technical know-how. Therefore, igus has now developed a new free and openly accessible online tool: the drylin shaft configurator. Here, users have the opportunity to select the appropriate shaft in their desired length from seven materials in just three steps, to modify the main body and the hubs with standard elements such as chamfers and grooves, and to place the configuration order. Additionally, users receive the STEP files of their configuration and a dimensioned drawing for free download.

Designing shafts without CAD software? igus now makes this possible with its new free online tool: the drylin shaft configurator. This expands the wide range of practical online services. Users can quickly access their desired product without needing technical expertise or CAD software. In the new online configurator, they can choose from seven different shaft materials with diameters from 6 to 50 millimeters, and modify the main body and hubs as they wish. Meanwhile, the user is shown the price of their configuration and can order it directly. Another advantage: igus provides the STEP file of the shaft and the technical dimensioned drawing as a PDF download. This allows users to continue designing their application directly with the configured shaft.

Fast and simple configuration in just three steps

In the first step of the drylin shaft configurator, the user determines the diameter, length, and quantity of their desired shaft. Next, they can select the suitable material with the optimal surface treatment. In addition to hard-coated aluminum shafts, hardened or chrome-plated steel shafts, several hardened stainless steel materials, and VA shafts are available. Stainless steel shafts are particularly suitable for the food processing industry, while aluminum shafts offer a lightweight and cost-effective alternative for mechanical engineering. In the second step, the user can modify the shaft body and optionally the hubs, adding various processing stages and 14 standard elements such as chamfers, holes, threads, or grooves. An intelligent system provides maximum and minimum values to prevent incorrect design. Thanks to the clear interface of the tool, the hints, and tips, configuring the shaft is significantly simplified for the user. In the final step, the customer receives an overview of their configuration, including the price, tiered pricing, and delivery time. They can order their shaft or request a quote, and download the dimensioned drawing and CAD data of their product. There is also an option to save the configuration or share it with colleagues via a link: especially useful for large project planning. After the order is received, the digital process sends the order directly to the factory, where the shaft is manufactured at igus within 3-6 days and then shipped.

iglidur sliding bearings as durable partners

But what would a shaft be without the appropriate sliding bearing or linear sliding bearing? The motion plastics specialist igus has been developing sliding bearings from tribo-polymers for over 35 years. With over 50 different materials in various sizes, igus offers the right sliding bearing or the suitable linear sliding bearing with iglidur sliding elements for every application and every shaft. The special feature: all iglidur materials consist of self-lubricating and maintenance-free tribo-polymers. These are wear-resistant, lightweight, corrosion-free, and can withstand extreme loads.