Lubrication-free prams - spare parts 3D printed simplify disassembly

Problem

Prams are often designed in such a way that they can be dismantled in a few easy steps to save space when stowed in the boot of the car. This also means that the tyres can usually be simply pulled out of their bearings. The problem with much of the design: the metal pins that are inserted into the plain bearings are lubricated and can soil hands or clothing during disassembly. In addition, the tyres must be stowed separately in plastic bags or similar containers, otherwise they run the risk of drying out.

Solution

The solution to this problem was quickly found in Cologne in the 3D printing department of igus®. Tribologically optimised materials for additive processes are developed there, including the iglidu® I3 material, which is specially produced for laser sintering. After the head of additive manufacturing, Tom Krause, had measured the old bearing and created a CAD model from it, the printing of the component was also quickly done. The new bearings made of iglidur® I3 convince with the integrated solid lubricants, which make external lubrication superfluous. In addition, the good sliding properties and high wear resistance of the material are well suited for the bearing points of the pram.

With iglidur® I3 to the perfect (and cost-effective) spare part

It was possible to trace the bearings for the lubricated machined ends relatively quickly and to manufacture them additively with the most suitable material for this purpose. Additive manufacturing saves resources and is particularly cost-effective, as no other tools are required apart from the 3D printer and the printing material. This makes cost-effective printing possible with no minimum order quantity. In addition to simple components, 3D printing can also produce more complex components in a single process. It is particularly valuable for individual customer applications. In combination with igus®' own high-performance polymers, individual components can be commissioned from the igus® 3D printing service that precisely meet the requirements of their application. The common component of the sliding-optimised plastics is the integrated solid lubricants, which make grease superfluous. In principle, components made of igus® plastics show less wear and better sliding properties than conventional plastics.
Also in this case, the plain bearings made of iglidur® I3 still operate perfectly and reliably even after 4 years.

Due to the integrated solid lubricants, the materials from igus are ideally suited for lubrication-free operation