http://www.gravitycasters.com/how-long-do-polyurethane-roller-wheels-last.html
Benefits of Polyurethane Roller Wheels
Durability: While polyurethane is softer compared to certain other wheel materials, it boasts exceptional durability. This quality positions it as the optimal choice for wheels intended to securely and safely transport heavy-duty loads. The enhanced shock-absorbing properties of polyurethane wheels contribute not only to quieter and smoother operation but also to minimizing damage from impacts during use. This longevity translates to reduced maintenance and replacement costs.
Friction and Traction: Polyurethane stands out among other wheel materials for its excellent friction properties, particularly beneficial when towing heavy loads on both smooth and uneven flooring surfaces. This characteristic proves especially advantageous when considering polyurethane for use in driven wheels, as it enhances traction. Ultimately, equipment fitted with polyurethane wheels is less prone to tipping over or sliding, and less likely to become stuck, ensuring smoother and safer operation.
Price and Product Lifespan: The prices of polyurethane wheels can vary significantly, much like other wheel materials, depending on the specific application requirements. However, polyurethane wheels are renowned for offering excellent value for money due to their outstanding characteristics. This makes them a long-lasting investment choice. With proper care, polyurethane wheels can maintain reliable performance for many years, even under rigorous conditions and heavy-duty applications.
Abrasion Resistance: These polyurethane castor wheels resist abrasion and wear, making them suitable for rough surfaces and environments where constant contact with debris or rough terrain is common.
Load Bearing Capacity: Polyurethane roller wheels can carry heavy loads efficiently due to their high load-bearing capacity. They distribute weight evenly, ensuring stability and smooth operation.
Noise Reduction: Solid polyurethane wheels are renowned for their quiet operation, which is highly desirable for various reasons. Creating a quieter working environment significantly enhances employee well-being. Unlike traditional materials such as steel, iron, or nylon, polyurethane serves as an efficient shock absorber. This capability ensures minimal noise even on uneven flooring surfaces, further enhancing the quietness of operations.
Floor Protection: Polyurethane is known for being among the softer materials used for making wheels. Despite this characteristic not compromising their durability, as we'll explore shortly, it ensures optimal protection for your floors. In areas with high foot traffic, wheels can inflict significant damage—leaving unsightly scuffs, pits, and marks that detract from aesthetics and pose safety hazards due to damaged flooring. Polyurethane wheels, on the other hand, provide comprehensive floor protection.
Chemical Resistance: Resistant to oils, solvents, and chemicals, pu wheels maintain their integrity when exposed to these substances, ensuring reliable performance in industrial settings.
Versatility: These wheels are versatile and adaptable to a wide range of applications, from industrial machinery and material handling equipment to carts, dollies, and medical devices.
Smooth Rolling: Polyurethane's inherent properties provide smooth rolling motion, reducing the effort required to move loads and improving operational efficiency.
Elasticity: Polyurethane wheels have a degree of elasticity that allows them to absorb shocks and vibrations, protecting both the wheel itself and the transported goods.
Weather Resistance: They perform well in various weather conditions, maintaining their performance and durability even in extreme temperatures.
Customization Options: Available in different sizes, shapes, and hardness levels (durometers), polyurethane wheels can be customized to meet specific application requirements.
Environmental Considerations: Many polyurethane formulations are environmentally friendly, featuring recyclable materials and reducing overall environmental impact.