Competition Seeking Outstanding Applications for Polymer Bearings

Design engineers from around the world can now apply for the 2027 Igus Manus Award. The award seeks applications in which lubrication-free Igus polymer plain bearings increase cost-effectiveness and improve the environmental footprint. Winners can expect prize money of up to 5,000 euros. 

With the Manus Award, igus highlights applications that combine cost-effectiveness with sustainability. “Many lubricants are resource- and energy-intensive to produce. In addition, they can leach into the environment and must be disposed of properly at the end of their life cycle. These drawbacks are eliminated with our lubrication-free polymer plain bearings,” says Tobias Vogel, Managing Director of Plain Bearings and Linear Technology and a member of the Manus jury. At the same time, polymer bearings often offer economic advantages. 

In many companies, the purchase of lubricants and regular relubrication work generate costs. In a study conducted in collaboration with RWTH Aachen University, the manufacturer demonstrated that, depending on the application, the use of polymer bearings can save between 7,000 euros ($7,980) and 14 million euros ($15.96 million) in lubricant costs annually. Although polymer plain bearings play a central role in numerous machines and systems, they rarely take center stage. To highlight innovative applications, the company has been presenting the Manus Award since 2003. The competition recognizes outstanding solutions featuring polymer plain bearings.

More than 600 Applicants in 2025

More than 600 entries were submitted to the international competition in 2025. For Tobias Vogel, this is a sign of growing interest in polymer bearings. “For us, the submissions serve as a kind of mirror that allows us to continuously improve plain bearings made of high-performance plastics and adapt them to industry-specific requirements, bringing us closer to our vision of a lubrication-free future.” 

Among last year’s winners was Prechtl Tech Solutions. The company uses polymer bearings to make a portable surgical microscope more robust and low-maintenance for countries with weak infrastructure. Also honored were a photovoltaic power plant, an AI-powered hoe, and a bicycle trailer for package delivery.

Seeking New Award Recipients

All applications featuring plain bearings, linear bearings, and spherical bearings made of solid plastic or plastic compounds are eligible for the competition. Another requirement: At least one functional version of the device must be available. The jury, composed of representatives from academia, industry, and the trade press, will evaluate in particular the technical benefits as well as the environmental and economic advantages of plastic plain bearings in practical applications. 

After the application period closes on February 12, 2027, four prizes will be awarded, each worth up to 5,000 euros ($5,700): the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Manus Awards, as well as the Green Manus Award for the most sustainable application. The awards ceremony will take place in the winning countries.