The Different Types Of Hard Wheel Threads

For ease of use, heat resistance, and load baring, hard wheel threads are often the answer.  There is considerable variety between the materials used on hard wheel threads and their properties. Read on to find out more.

1) Cast iron and steel 

Cast iron and steel are extremely strong, resistant to shock, and highly durable, and they also have very low tractive resistance. The result is a wheel that glides smoothly, and which will continue to perform in intensive or demanding environments. Cast iron and steel wheel threads have an impressive temperature range of -40^oC to 300^oC, making them ideally suited to heavy industrial and food processing environments.

2) Nylon 

When damage to the floor surface is a concern but soft wheel threads are not suitable for the application, nylon wheel threads are often the best choice. Cracked and chipped floors are a major hygiene hazard, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food and drinks industries, and are a general health and safety problem in any environment with foot traffic.  Nylon wheels have a high load capacity, excellent abrasion resistance, and are gentle on both concrete and epoxy resin flooring. Nylon also has a formidable temperature range of - 40^oC to 80^oC making it ideal for a wide range of applications.

3) Polypropylene 

High load-bearing Polypropylene wheel threads have a catalogue of benefits. They are resistant to fractures, dampen noise, and repel most greases and oils, making them a  popular choice for many workshops and storage facilities. Additionally, they are cheaper than most other hard wheel thread options, so are excellent for tough environments where equipment is regularly damaged. Polypropylene wheel threads can be vulnerable to abrasions, so compare them with their closest relative – nylon – when considering this option.

4) Phenolic 

For bakeries and high-temperature production lines, phenolic wheel threads are often recommended. Phenolic resin can withstand temperatures of up to 350^oC, and the hard,  fracture-resistant material can tolerate intensive use. Like any resin, phenolic is liable to wear and chipping. However, a quality coating will increase the overall durability of the wheel, so always use a reputable manufacturer when selecting this type of wheel thread.

What next? 

Your best hard wheel thread choice depends on the application, temperature, and surface conditions. There is significant variation between the different types of wheel, so to make sure that you make the right choice,  please call today to speak with one of our wheels and castors specialists.