Regulation (EU) 2024/3190 requires manufacturers of machinery for the food industry to reconsider their approach. Starting in July 2026, components that come into direct contact with food may no longer contain bisphenol A, a substance classified as an endocrine disruptor. The ban applies to all new machinery placed on the market, while the transition period has been extended until January 2028 only in special cases, such as existing lines or specific applications. As a result, many designers are already looking for alternative solutions. igus is addressing this need with iglidur A351, its new bisphenol-free material, previewed at the Hannover Messe 2026.
Thanks to its versatility, iglidur A351 is suitable for the production of plain bearings for handling systems, gears for packaging machines, and components that come into direct contact with the product, such as guides or spacers, in filling and packaging systems. The material is available in various forms: granules for injection molding, semi-finished products for CNC applications, and filament for 3D printing. “iglidur A351 ensures full compliance with standards. Not only does it meet FDA guidelines, but it is also free of bisphenol A and bisphenol S”, says Lars Butenschön, head of the iglidur Bearings Business Unit at igus headquarters in Cologne, Germany. “Many designers”, he added, “have reported difficulties in sourcing components compliant with Regulation (EU) 2024/3190. Our goal is to provide them with concrete support in this transition phase by providing a material that can be adopted without compromising technical performance and without the need for further design adjustments”.
High stability, low weight
iglidur A351 meets the demanding requirements of the food industry thanks to a unique combination of technical properties. The material has a density of approximately 1.42 g/cm3, which ensures a high level of stability while maintaining a low weight compared to metal solutions. Furthermore, it can withstand high surface pressures, with compressive loads of up to 78 MPa. Among the advantages of iglidur A351 is its low moisture absorption of approximately 0.6%, which ensures dimensional accuracy and functional reliability even in humid production environments. Furthermore, its temperature resistance from -100°C to +180°C makes it suitable for food processing and intensive cleaning cycles, thus representing a valid, cost-effective alternative to PEEK.
EU ban on bisphenol A: igus presents the iglidur A351 material
Like all iglidur materials, the new A351 also contains embedded solid lubricants. Unlike metal bearings, the particles embedded in the polymers enable dry operation without the need for external lubricants. “This effect significantly reduces maintenance requirements, resulting in significant cost savings”, explains Lars Butenschön. “Finally”, he continues, “the material’s blue color improves optical detection. This is particularly important in the food industry, as it ensures product safety. Like all igus polymers, the new iglidur A351 has been subjected to the most rigorous testing in the extensive 5,500 m2 in-house laboratory at our headquarters in Cologne”.
