Polymer solutions for mechatronic designs have become the option of choice for many engineers. Mechatronic systems are becoming smaller, faster, and more capable. Whether in aerospace, surgical robotics, or automated lab equipment, these compact designs must integrate motion, control, and sensing in a tight space where every component matters.
This blog post explores how polymer seals and bearings work well in compact mechatronic designs, including design considerations for their implementation and application examples.
Why Polymers Make Sense in Mechatronic Systems
Traditional metal solutions for bearings and seals in mechatronic systems can add weight, generate friction, and possibly require frequent maintenance. Engineered polymers, on the other hand, bring a variety of benefits depending on the polymer selected. For example, the use of polymers leads to significant weight reduction compared to their metal counterparts. They eliminate the corrosion issues found with metals and exhibit outstanding chemical compatibility. In addition, many engineered polymers have extremely low friction, self-lubrication, and dry running capabilities. Polymers also support a high level of customization for different operating environments through the use of fillers.
Polymer Seals in Compact Mechatronics
Polymer seals are widely used in mechatronics applications, including miniature actuators, precision servo systems, and integrated valves. Materials such as PTFE, PEEK, and UHMW-PE provide excellent sealing performance under a variety of operating conditions, including dynamic loads, pressure cycling, and vacuums. And the use of spring-energized seals provides even more options for ultra-reliable sealing in highly compact system geometries.
Polymer Bearings for Precision Motion and Load Support
Polymer bearings offer excellent performance and advantages over their metal counterparts in lightweight, noise-sensitive systems. The use of filled PTFE, PEEK, and PPS performs exceptionally well as bearing surfaces. In addition, polymer bearings are highly useful in non-lubricated environments as well as those subject to misalignment and vibration. Polymer bearings are commonly used in miniaturized gearboxes, servo motors, and robotic joints.
Considerations for Polymer Solutions for Mechatronic Designs
There are special design considerations that need to be accounted for when using polymer solutions for mechatronic designs. The first is managing thermal expansion and tolerance in polymer-metal interfaces because of the difference in their coefficient of thermal expansion. In addition, polymer components will require precision molding or machining that may add to the project cost. Hybrid assemblies are likely to be involved when combining polymer seals and/or bearings with structural supports. There is also a need to carefully balance stiffness, compliance, and wear resistance in highly constrained spaces.
Application Examples Involving Polymer Solutions for Mechatronic Designs
Surgical robotics often use high precision, highly reliable polymer bearings for tool actuation and precision. Aerospace drones also depend on lightweight, high-performance seals for flight control actuators, and automotive sensors often use integrated seals and bushings in electric throttle systems. Lab automation requires low-friction, maintenance-free motion components that may need excellent chemical compatibility.
Conclusion
Mechatronic systems are become smaller, and with that has come a higher demand for seal and bearing solutions that can function with high precision, excellent reliability, and minimal maintenance. Polymer solutions are an excellent option, and can serve in a variety of applications.
If you are looking at seal or bearing solutions for mechatronic systems, contact Advanced EMC today. Our engineers are experienced with the challenges of highly space-constrained systems for various operating environments and applications. Our team can not just advise you on the right polymer for your design, but support you through testing and manufacturing, as well. Let us help you find the correct bearings and seals.