Lubricant-free bearings in the sun

igus presents a new maintenance-free and cost-effective standing bearing block for solar tracker applications

Motion plastics specialist igus has now launched an optimized version of their successful igubal ESQM standing bearing block for solar tracking modules. The ESQM 2.0 is a lubricant- and maintenance-free solution for the safe support of solar trackers according to the position of the sun. Its compact design allows users to save installation space and continue to rely on a proven bearing solution made of UV-resistant high-performance plastics.

For solar panels to generate energy efficiently, solar farm operators rely on movable modules that automatically adjust themselves according to the position of the sun. igubal ESQM standing bearing blocks from igus have been successfully used to mount these modules for 15 years. Made of high-quality plastics, this standing bearing block consists of a split housing and two spherical half shells for easy installation. Attached to the housing is a square profile that serves as a support for the solar panels. The spherical half shell allows angle compensation up to 9° and high radial load up to 50 kN. "We keep in touch with our customers who use our products in solar parks around the world. We are very interested in how users interact with the products and where we can optimize them further. Through this exchange of information, we have now developed the ESQM 2.0," says Richard Won, Solar Industry Manager at igus GmbH.

Compact design saves installation space and facilitates installation

The ESQM 2.0 is based on a new design. The spherical ball halves now have a U-shape with an integrated slot, so that cables can now also be routed through the bearing. Two small pins under the housing ensure easy and slip-free installation, thanks in part to the tried and tested split housing. The compact design not only saves material, but also provides additional installation space in height. A sheet steel extension cross brace, which can be easily mounted over the spherical ball, ensures that it is held securely in the housing. "We also rely on our newly developed, extremely UV-resistant polymers for the materials we use," says Won. As with all igus plastics, solar array users can completely forgo lubrication and maintenance. Solid lubricants integrated into the plastic ensure smooth dry running of the slide bearing. This results in enormous cost and time savings: $240 billion is spent each year on lubrication alone in all industries worldwide. This is accompanied by maintenance costs of at least $200 billion. Despite this, failures due to insufficient lubrication occur time and again, totaling $750 billion. The use of lubricant-free igus components thus lowers maintenance costs, saves personnel in times of skilled labor shortages and protects the environment. There is no risk of lubricating oil or grease entering the soil of the areas where the solar parks are located. "With the ESQM 2.0, we were able to further optimize our already excellent ESQM to offer customers the perfect solution for their solar tracker applications. Like its predecessor, it has a 25-year functional warranty," Won explained.