Industrial wheels (cast elastomers)

Industrial polyurethane wheels are one of the most successful applications of cast elastomers — PU systems where liquid prepolymer is mixed with a curative (chain extender) and poured into molds, reacting and solidifying in the final shape of the part. They are used in forklifts, industrial carts, AGVs (automated guided vehicles), industrial scooters, automotive parts conveyors, and dozens of other applications where traditional rubber or polyamide wheels don't deliver performance.

Advantages of PU elastomers over vulcanized rubber and polyamide:

• Higher abrasion resistance: 5 to 10 times longer-lasting than rubber in same application
• Higher load capacity: much superior compression resistance, allowing smaller wheels for same capacity
• Does not leave marks on floors: critical in public-facing environments (shopping centers, hospitals, laboratories)
• Oil and solvent resistance: rubber swells; PU resists
• Superior damping: reduces noise and vibration compared to rigid wheels

TDI-based elastomers are the global standard, offering good cost-performance combination. MDI-based offer higher service temperatures. PPDI-based (para-phenylene diisocyanate) are used in extreme high-performance applications — more expensive but with unique properties.