Now it clicks: New PTFE-free positioning system from igus for precise adjustments

By Staff Report May 9, 2025 5:38 pm IST

igus has introduced a new drylin W linear guide with a snap-lock function, making it easy to adjust and lock positions — even in tight spaces. Whether moving a sensor to the right spot, adjusting a headrest, or positioning a screen ergonomically, the new system clicks it securely into place.

The guide is compact, lightweight, and low maintenance. Made from lubrication-free high-performance plastics and aluminium, it is also durable, hygienic, and ideal for simple positioning tasks, especially in interior applications.

People like comfort and appreciate the possibility of individualisation. It is therefore not surprising that, as technology advances, more objects can be individually positioned for comfortable and ergonomic use – from sofas with leg rests and screens in vehicle cabins to headrests and armrests on aeroplanes and trains. Adjustment is convenient when it requires as few movements as possible. “Manufacturers want linear guides with a snap mechanism that is as minimalist as possible and do not require levers or other complex mechanical and electrical components,” says Michael Hornung, Product Manager of drylin Linear and Drive Technology at igus. “We have developed the new linear guide drylin WWP with snap function, which allows uncomplicated and cost-effective positioning.”

Precise, flexible and strong adjustments

The linear guide consists of two components: a carriage made of high-performance plastic, which can be connected to the object to be moved, and an aluminium linear rail, on which the movement takes place – for example the adjustment of a sofa headrest. The special feature: at regular intervals, the rail contains small polymer rings of just a few millimetres. On the underside of the carriage, a steel ball sits on a spring with a pretension that can be chosen. When a predefined position is reached during adjustment, the ball engages with an audible click, and the object remains firmly in position. The maximum static load capacity is 100N vertically to the guide and 50N horizontally to the guide. To release the carriage, the user only needs to apply enough force to push the ball out of the recess. The system moves freely again until the ball enters the next position. Says Hornung: “The system is very intuitive, durable and fail-safe thanks to the absence of complex mechanical components.” This is confirmed by tests in the company’s 4,000m2 test laboratory.

65% lower weight and dry-running operation without lubrication

Users can adapt the new linear system to their application. The rails are available in lengths of up to 3,000mm and as hard, silver, or black anodised versions. For customised drilling patterns, igus also offers rail profiles without holes. The polymer carriages are available in installation size 1030 (slide dimensions: L60xW56xH24mm) and miniature size 0620 (slide dimensions: L40xW32xH14 mm). “With these dimensions, the system is more compact and lighter than systems with recirculating ball bearings. The lightweight design also means that it is flexible and can be transported, which makes it ideal for interiors where space is often at a premium,” says Hornung. “Compared to aluminium miniature carriages, users save up to 65% in weight.” In addition, no external lubrication is required. The indexing carriage is high-performance plastic with integrated solid lubricants that ensure clean, low-maintenance and consistently smooth operation over several years. In addition, the high-performance plastic used is free from around 100 PFAS chemicals that could be subject to future regulations and also meets the low-fogging requirements in the automotive sector.