Brass bushings? The self-lubricating polymer revolution through FDM 3D printing
Additive manufacturing is challenging the brass-bushing status quo. Thanks to self-lubricating technical polymers such as PETG-PTFE, aramid-fiber-reinforced PA12, and carbon-filled composites, FDM 3D printing now offers a strategic route to lightweight, high-performance, custom bushings and plain bearings that require zero maintenance. The article examines—supported by hard data—the most innovative materials, guiding designers and engineers toward the optimal choice for replacing traditional metals, with a focus on prototyping, short-run production, and high-performance applications.