Why Different Manufacturing Applications Require Different Trolley Wheels

Manufacturing facilities utilise a variety of trolleys to transport parts, tools, materials, and finished products around the shop floor, so you must carefully evaluate key criteria based on each application and the specific workplace environment and its challenges.

In this article, we’ll consider how different manufacturing applications affect the choice of trolley wheels and how different types of castors should be carefully chosen to deliver the high performance that businesses need.

Load Capacity

One of the most important considerations when choosing types of trolley wheels is load capacity. Wheels must be rated to safely handle the maximum expected weight to which they will be exposed. Exceeding the load capacity causes wheels to wear prematurely or to become damaged; a wheel that unexpectedly fails may pose serious safety hazards, particularly if heavy or bulky goods are being transported at the time. Verifying that trolley wheels provide adequate capacity will prevent equipment breakdowns and accidents.

Wheel Materials

The material used to manufacture wheels is another key factor to consider, as different manufacturing settings pose unique hazards and conditions:

• Nylon: Nylon castors provide quiet operation, shock absorption, and resistance to chemicals, moisture, and weathering. Their versatility makes them suitable for industrial settings in which operating conditions may be harsh.
• Steel: Steel castors offer durability, high load capacity, and strength for heavy-duty industrial applications. They withstand impacts, abrasion, and demanding conditions while smoothly rolling heavy loads across rough surfaces.
• Polyurethane/rubber: Polyurethane or rubber wheels offer excellent traction, noise reduction, and floor protection. Their softness absorbs vibration for the smooth movement of trolleys and equipment across sensitive surfaces.

When choosing the wheels for your manufacturing trolleys, evaluate the environment in which they will operate, considering the ambient temperature, potential of chemical exposure, and sanitation requirements.

Type Of Flooring

The type of flooring in your manufacturing plant will also impact the performance of trolley wheels. For example, on tiles, softer rubber or polyurethane tread provides more effective traction so trolleys will move more easily, even when laden with heavy goods. Rough, uneven floors in industrial settings are better suited to hard nylon or steel wheels that resist impacts.

Environmental Conditions

Factors such as temperature, moisture, and outdoor exposure – play a critical role in the durability of trolley wheels. Pneumatic and polyurethane wheels withstand temperature fluctuations best, while moist environments require corrosion-resistant metals or sealed bearings. If trolleys are to be used outdoors, wheels must resist ultraviolet light, water, and dirt.

Working Conditions

Finally, noise and vibration issues can affect employees’ comfort and concentration, so if working conditions may be compromised, it is vital to select wheels with noise-reducing properties, such as softer treads or ball bearings which dampen rumbling in echoing warehouses.

Find Out More

Investing in the right trolley wheels for your manufacturing plant will save money, enhance workplace safety, and drive productivity and efficiency. For more information, please speak with an expert at Rolltek.

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