The most popular choice in the material handling sector are rubber and polyurethane castors. They are commonly utilized interchangeably, irrespective of their unique characteristics and so are widespread on close to eighty% of industrial applications.
But, what’s the distinction between rubber and polyurethane castors and which should you consider using?
Load capacity/maximum weight
Perhaps one of The key factors of caster selection is figuring out the maximum load. Polyurethane castors can usually carry heavier weights than rubber casters as a result of the hardness of the material. Also, polyurethane castors might have incredibly skinny threads compared to rubber casters, which improves their load ability. Polyurethane castors will also be much more resistant to splitting and tearing.
Ground Protection & Marking
Typical Rubber Castors are produced utilizing Carbon Black Filler. Unfortunately, this Carbon Black will mark flooring, notably wooden & tiled flooring and is consequently not suitable for applications where by flooring marking Attributes are very important.
Polyurethane Alternatively doesn't frequently mark flooring.
While Polyurethane is generally combined with a colourant, the chemical make-up of the material locks the colour into the material and can't leach or mark flooring surfaces.
Roll Resistance
Roll resistance is an important aspect for ease of use. The smaller the roll resistance, the less difficult it is to maneuver the equipment. This boosts here operator ease and comfort and performance. In relation to decreasing roll resistance, two matters make a difference – consistency and hardness of the material.
Polyurethane castors tend to be more uniform in nature than purely natural rubber as a result of their artificial composition. The material’s extremely constant texture provides steady amounts of rolling check here friction, resulting in diminished roll resistance.
Longevity
Rubber castors provide a softer ride, Nevertheless they don’t last as long as polyurethane castors. Rubber castor wheels reduce tread with time, whereas polyurethane castor wheels have drastically bigger resistance to wear and abrasion. Polyurethane castor wheels can survive around 3 times longer than rubber castor wheels under managed tests. With regards to the composition, polyurethane castors also tend to outperform rubber castors with regards to oil, grease, and chemical resistance.
As you'll be able to see, deciding upon polyurethane castors is generally your best option. You'll be able to buy polyurethane castors within the AUT Web-site.