Tribologically and mechanically optimised compounds

Ensinger has been developing high-performance thermoplastic compounds for moving components since 1966. With their lubrication integrated into the plastic, they are designed for dry-running systems that are particularly low-maintenance or even completely maintenance-free. In lubricated systems, they also improve emergency running properties in the event of insufficient lubrication. 
The tribologically and mechanically optimised compounds from Ensinger under the TECACOMP TRM brand stand for excellent sliding properties, maximum strength and minimum wear. They are used in demanding industries such as automotive and mechanical engineering or in the oil and gas sector.

Examples of applications include: 

  • Linear plain bearings and sliding elements for automotive applications (e.g. seats, steering column) and mechanical engineering (linear slides) 
  • Bushings, starting elements, valves, joints and various functional parts for the drive train, gearboxes and machines
  • Dynamic seals and housing covers for pumps, for example in automotive applications and in industry
Example: Recirculating air valve

Are you looking for the right compound for special tribological and mechanical requirements?

We will be happy to advise you. 


Perfectly matched to your individual application

Customers' application-specific requirements are the focal point of product development. Ensinger compounds numerous technical thermoplastics and high-performance polymers - on request also unmixed plastic recyclates from internal or external sources. The material is mechanically reinforced with carbon and glass fibres.
Additives such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon), silicone oil, minerals, ceramics or graphite ensure integrated lubrication. The perfectly matched combination of polymer, fibres and tribologically effective additives reduces friction and wear. Other secondary properties can also be realised, for example to increase the impact strength or heat resistance of the compound.

Looking for the right mix?

We are at your side when selecting the compound. Benefit from the experience of our experts!  


Excellent sliding properties – also PFAS-free

Tribologically optimised compounds often contain PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon), as is the case with Ensinger's well-proven PVX formulations. The inert fluoroplastic is characterised in particular by its high resistance, excellent anti-adhesive properties and a very low coefficient of friction. 
However, perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), such as PTFE, are so stable that they hardly degrade and accumulate in the environment. As a contribution to reducing the use of these "eternal chemicals", Ensinger also offers PFAS-free compounds for tribological applications with TECACOMP XS. 
Thanks to mineral additives, the XS formulations also have very low coefficients of friction. In addition, they offer further technical advantages. For example, Ensinger's XS compound based on PEEK exhibits up to 70 % less wear than the PVX variant. 
The images below taken with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) show the surfaces of a PXV compound with PTFE (left) and a PFAS-free XS compound (right) from Ensinger after the sliding process:

PEEK PVX (with PTFE)

Under tribological stress, layers of PTFE fragments are torn from the plastic matrix, leading to increased wear.

PEEK XS (PFAS-free)

In the case of mineral-filled compounds without PTFE, a uniformly lubricated surface is created under tribological load.

Compound portfolio

Sliding-optimised compounds improve the efficiency and increase the service life of tribologically stressed products. They therefore make an important contribution to a more efficient use of resources and increase sustainability and energy efficiency. Ensinger offers a comprehensive portfolio of compounds for this purpose:

Do you have further questions about our tribologically optimised compounds?

We will be happy to answer them.

  • Graphite (GR) consists of carbon and has very good dry lubricating properties. It also increases the compressive strength of the compound and improves shrinkage isotropy.

    Molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) is a crystalline mineral with low friction coefficients in dry running. Similar to graphite, it consists of space-parallel crystal layers that are easily displaceable against each other, which leads to a lubricating effect.

    Silicone oil (SI), unlike mineral oil or vegetable oil, is not based on organic carbon, but on silicon. It does not tend to resinify even at high temperatures (up to 180 °C) and forms a continuous lubricating film on the surface.

    Castor oil (CO), also known as ricinus oil, is obtained from the seeds of a spurge plant (Ricinus communis). It has a high temperature resistance and has proven itself as a natural lubricant in tribological applications.

    Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a semi-crystalline, thermoplastic polymer with high resistance. It forms a lubricating film between the sliding partners and equalises static and dynamic friction. This usually prevents “stick-slip”.

     
  • Carbon fibres (CF) in the compound ensure maximum mechanical strength. Their graphite-like surface also has good lubricating properties. This reduces wear on the mating partner in tribologically stressful applications.

    Glass fibres (GF) increase the tensile and compressive strength of the compound as well as its heat resistance. However, the hard fibre can increase abrasion in the system if the mating partner is made of a softer material.