Motion plastics specialist, igus, will be showcasing a range of its latest automation solutions in line with industry 4.0 at this year’s Northern Manufacturing and Electronics (NME) event, which takes place in Manchester, 28th – 29th September. Visitors to the igus stand (stand D44) will see demonstrations of the new igus smart plastics that help enable machine and system builders open the door to Industry 4.0. The chainflex cable, energy chain and linear bearing products within the smart plastics range have embedded intelligence via the use of innovative sensing, monitoring and communication technologies. Using smart plastics, engineers can increase plant reliability, minimise downtime and reduce costs through condition monitoring and predictive maintenance. Another new introduction to be demonstrated during NME is the igus online 3D printing service for wear-resistant prototypes and special parts supplied quickly and easily. Engineers simply upload their stl file onto the online configurator, (www.igus.co.uk/online3Dprinting) check the component in the 360-degree view and specify measurements. Once the specific tribofilament is chosen, the parts can be ordered for printing and dispatch within 24-hours. Also on display will be igus stock materials - in bar and plate form - for machining into prototypes, test specimens and low volume parts. Offering the same qualities and properties as iglidur bearings, these materials are self-lubricated and maintenance free, as well as resistant to dust and dirt. In addition to the above, igus will also be exhibiting a comprehensive range of plain bearings, ball bearings, cable management systems and continuous flex cables, as well as linear systems that can be used to help designers optimise production processes and reduce costs. For more information, please contact: igus® Caswell Road Brackmills Northampton NN4 7PW Tel: +44 1604 677240 Fax: +44 1604 677245 Email: sales@igus.co.uk Web: www.igus.co.uk