Meets EU fire protection standards: igus introduces a new polymer material to the market

iglidur RW370 complies with EN 45545 and offers high media resistance while maintaining high wear resistance (Source: igus GmbH)

In the food industry, cleanrooms, or medical technology – standards ensure the highest safety in sensitive areas. igus has now introduced iglidur RW370, a special iglidur polymer material that meets EN 45545 as the new European fire protection standard for rail vehicles.

In transportation technology, durable, resilient, and reliable mechanical components are crucial. When operating at high cycle rates under changing weather conditions, maintenance-free continuous operation is particularly important. By using wear-resistant igus high-performance polymers, not only can external lubrication be avoided, but valuable resources can also be conserved through optimized sliding pairs with high efficiencies. With iglidur RW370, igus has now introduced a new sliding bearing material that, in addition to these properties, also complies with the new European standard for rail vehicles.

iglidur RW370 for increased fire safety

Where special safety requirements exist, special materials must be used. EN 45545 standardizes country-specific EU fire protection regulations, thereby increasing safety in rail vehicles and railway infrastructure. The new material, iglidur RW370, not only meets the requirements of this standard but also offers high media resistance combined with high wear resistance. The new material is used, among other things, in door drives and hinges, swivel joints, access stairs, as well as seat and table adjustments.

Polymer bearing technology widely used in railways

The new material is part of a broad range of bearing technology offered by igus in railway engineering. In addition to iglidur RW370, igus also offers high-load bearings made from iglidur Q2, which are used in train bogies, brake systems, and coupling systems. Besides sliding bearings, igus also offers maintenance-free gear drives for movement in switchgear, points, doors, and ramp drives. This program includes not only different thread pitches and sizes but also various designs, including solutions that are free of play for life. Particularly convenient for customers are the product finder and lifespan calculation tools available online. Additionally, igus offers maintenance-free xiros polymer ball bearings that last a lifetime without lubrication. For daily operational comfort, igus also provides suitable solutions: slide rail systems for seat adjustments and ergonomic workplace requirements, which are free of play and vibration-damping thanks to the PreLoad (pre-tension) function.