igus expands their PTFE-free 3D printing offerings

By combining deep tribological expertise with cutting-edge materials, the company is shaping a more sustainable future for motion plastics.

PFAS substances, including PTFE, have traditionally played a key role in delivering low friction and durability in moving components. However, increasing environmental and regulatory scrutiny is accelerating the demand for viable alternatives, particularly in additive manufacturing, where material choice is critical to functional performance.

igus is addressing this challenge head-on, focusing on the development of PTFE-free materials across many of their product ranges including 3D printing applications. The objective is to provide a direct alternative, ensuring that new materials offer the same levels of wear resistance, reliability, and service life expected from the previous solutions.

Backed by tribological expertise

Central to this development is the igus test laboratory, where more than 17,000 tribological tests are conducted each year. Supported by their specialist teams, this continuous testing enables igus to refine and validate PTFE-free materials for real-world motion applications and has already led to the introduction of multiple PTFE-free materials.

New PFAS-free materials for 3D printing

igus is now expanding its additive manufacturing range with two new PTFE-free materials designed for moving applications.

The i200 3D printing resin sets a new benchmark for durability in printed components, offering up to 80 times greater wear resistance compared to standard resins. This enables the production of functional parts that go beyond prototyping, supporting long-term use in demanding environments.

Complementing this is the i190 filament, a PTFE-free alternative for FDM printing. Designed for low-friction, wear-resistant applications, it allows engineers to produce customised motion components using common 3D printing machines.

Together, these materials open up new possibilities for producing reliable, maintenance-free parts while aligning with future regulatory requirements.

The future of sustainable motion plastics

By bringing PTFE-free innovation into additive manufacturing, igus is dedicated to helping engineers rethink how moving components are designed and produced. The combination of advanced materials, extensive testing, and application expertise ensures that performance is not compromised in the transition to more sustainable solutions.