A polyurethane wheel is a durable, elastomer wheel with a tread made from polyurethane, a versatile material that acts as a bridge between plastic and rubber. It offers superior abrasion resistance, high load-bearing capacity, excellent resistance to chemicals, and low noise operation, making it ideal for industrial, medical, and retail applications where floor protection, durability, and quiet movement are essential. These wheels can be customized for different hardness levels and are available with various central cores like plastic, aluminum, or cast iron for diverse applications.
Key characteristics
Versatile material:
Polyurethane is an elastomer between plastic and rubber, offering a unique combination of properties not found in ordinary plastics or rubbers.
Exceptional durability:
It possesses high mechanical resistance, abrasion resistance, and a long service life, outperforming many other wheel materials.
High load capacity:
Polyurethane wheels can handle heavy loads, making them suitable for industrial carts, trolleys, and other material handling equipment.
Excellent floor protection:
Due to their ability to deflect and create a larger footprint than harder wheels, they reduce stress on floors, preventing scratches and damage.
Low-noise operation:
The material's properties contribute to a quieter and smoother rolling experience, beneficial in environments like retail stores or hospitals.
Chemical resistance:
Polyurethane provides excellent resistance to oils, solvents, and various harsh chemicals, increasing its durability in challenging environments.
Customizable hardness:
The polyurethane material can be mixed and molded to achieve a wide range of hardness levels, from soft to very hard, catering to specific application needs.
Common applications
Industrial equipment:
Used on hand carts, equipment trolleys, and heavy-duty machinery.
Retail and hospitality:
Commonly found on shopping carts, pallet trucks, and other transport devices.
Medical and healthcare:
Utilized in medical equipment and hospital carts due to their quiet operation and resistance to sanitizing agents.
Manual and mechanical systems:
Suitable for both manual and automated applications, including forklifts, and casters on wheelchairs and strollers.