Castor Wheel Material Guide
Your comprehensive resource for selecting the perfect wheel material for any industrial application
Optimizing Industrial Mobility
Selecting the correct caster wheel material is critical for operational efficiency, floor preservation, load safety, and total cost of ownership. This guide helps you make informed decisions based on your specific application requirements.
Floor Protection
Minimizes damage to flooring surfaces
Rollability
Ease of initiating and maintaining movement
Load Capacity
Maximum weight the wheel can support
Noise Reduction
Quietness during operation
Chemical Resistance
Tolerance to oils, solvents, and chemicals
Cost Efficiency
Value for money over lifespan
Understanding Durometer Hardness
Durometer measures the hardness of materials on the Shore scale. Most caster wheels use Shore A (softer materials like rubber and TPR) or Shore D(harder materials like nylon and hard polyurethane).
- 60A: Soft rubber (max cushion)
- 85-95A: Standard polyurethane
- 95A: Hard rubber
- 70D: Hard polyurethane
- 80D+: Nylon, phenolic
- 90D+: Metal cores
15 Wheel Materials Compared
Detailed recommendations for each material type, showing ideal applications and surfaces to avoid.
1. Polyurethane (Standard 85-95 Shore A)
MOST VERSATILEIdeal Surfaces
- Polished Concrete
Excellent floor protection and low rolling resistance
- Epoxy-Coated Floors
Prevents scratching or marking on high-gloss finishes
- Tile & Linoleum
Distributes load evenly; non-marking
- Indoor Smooth Surfaces
Quiet, vibration-dampening for carts and trolleys
- High-Traffic Zones
Durable under frequent use with moderate loads
Not Recommended
- Outdoor Rough Terrain
Gravel, uneven asphalt, and debris accelerate wear
- Oil-Soaked Areas
Prolonged exposure to petroleum may degrade material
- Extreme Cold Environments
Below -20°C causes hardening and reduced elasticity
- Heavy Impact Loads
Repeated dropping or jarring may cause surface cracking
- Water-Logged Surfaces
Continuous immersion may lead to softening over time
2. Thermoplastic Core Polyurethane
WASHDOWN READYIdeal Surfaces
- Food Processing Floors
Non-marking; suitable for hygienic environments
- Pharmaceutical Facilities
Chemical-resistant to cleaning agents
- Wet & Washdown Areas
Excellent water and moisture resistance
- Commercial Kitchens
Easy-clean, non-porous, and FDA-compliant options
- Cold Storage Facilities
Maintains performance at low temperatures (-40°C rated)
Not Recommended
- High-Abrasion Surfaces
Rough concrete wears the material faster
- High-Speed Applications
Extended high-speed use may cause heat buildup
- Solvent Exposure
Certain ketones and aromatic solvents may degrade the core
- Outdoor Unprotected Use
UV exposure causes discoloration and brittleness
- Extreme Heat (>80°C)
Prolonged high heat softens and deforms the wheel
3. Polyurethane Hard (70 Shore D)
HIGH CAPACITYIdeal Surfaces
- Warehouse Smooth Floors
Low rolling resistance for heavy pallet trucks
- Manufacturing Plants
High load-bearing with minimal deformation
- Steel & Metal Industries
Withstands heavy equipment and static loads
- Rail-Track Systems
Ideal for carts running on embedded tracks
- Material Handling Equipment
Low floor contact stress under extreme weight
Not Recommended
- Carpeted or Soft Surfaces
Creates drag and potential floor damage
- Wet or Slippery Floors
Limited traction compared to softer options
- Noise-Sensitive Environments
Hard material generates higher operational noise
- Shock or Vibration Applications
Offers minimal cushioning for sensitive loads
- Outdoor Terrain
Cracks or chips from gravel and debris impact
4. Solid Polyurethane Wheels (70D)
NO DELAMINATIONIdeal Surfaces
- Pallet Jack Applications
Strong bonding eliminates delamination risk
- High-Frequency Use
Ideal for environments with constant, repetitive motion
- Distribution Centers
Reliable under continuous heavy-duty operation
- Automotive Industry
Can handle loads from vehicle transport trolleys
- Steel Mills & Foundries
Withstands heat and load without cracking
Not Recommended
- Debris-Heavy Floors
Surface cuts from metal chips or glass
- Soft or Uneven Ground
Limited shock absorption and floor conformity
- Extremely Hot Surfaces (>100°C)
Prolonged heat causes softening
- Chemical Spill Zones
Certain acids/alkalis can erode the material
- Low-Traction Requirements
Not suitable where braking resistance is critical
5. Nylon 6 (Polyamide)
IMPACT RESISTANTIdeal Surfaces
- Concrete (Sealed or Unsealed)
Wear-resistant and long-lasting
- Metal Grating
Strong enough to roll over grates without damage
- High-Temperature Zones
Withstands heat up to 120°C continuously
- Moderate Chemical Exposure
Resistant to oils, greases, and many solvents
- Heavy Machinery Trolleys
Suitable for static and slow-moving loads
Not Recommended
- Tile, Vinyl & Linoleum
Can scratch or mark soft floors
- Wet or Humid Environments
Absorbs moisture, leading to swelling and softening
- Noise-Sensitive Locations
Produces more noise than rubber alternatives
- Shock Load Applications
Brittle under sudden impact when cold
- High-Speed Conveyance
Creates friction heat, reducing lifespan
6. Polypropylene
ECONOMICALIdeal Surfaces
- Light-Duty Equipment
Furniture dollies, small utility carts
- Dry Indoor Environments
Warehouses, storage rooms, light retail
- Budget Applications
Economical solution where lifespan is secondary
- Low-Temperature Storage
Remains stable in refrigerated areas
- Non-Critical Mobility
Shelving units, display stands
Not Recommended
- Heavy Load Applications
Prone to cracking under high static weight
- Tile & Delicate Flooring
Scratches or leaves marks on soft floors
- Outdoor or UV-Exposed Areas
Becomes brittle with sun exposure
- High-Impact Zones
Fractures under sudden or repeated impact
- Wet or Slippery Surfaces
Low traction in damp conditions
7. TPR / TPE (Thermoplastic Rubber)
QUIET & CLEANIdeal Surfaces
- Hospitals & Clinics
Non-marking, quiet, and easy to sanitize
- Office Environments
Ideal for chair casters on carpet and hard floors
- Hotels & Hospitality
Smooth, silent operation for guest comfort
- Schools & Libraries
Minimal noise and floor protection
- Retail Showrooms
Protects flooring while remaining discreet
Not Recommended
- Heavy-Duty Industrial
Not designed for extreme loads or continuous use
- Extreme Heat (>60°C)
Softens and loses structural integrity
- Oil & Solvent Exposure
Degrades in prolonged contact with chemicals
- Outdoor Use
UV and weather exposure reduces lifespan
- High-Speed Transport
Heat buildup from friction accelerates wear
8. Hard Rubber (95 Shore A)
CLASSIC UTILITYIdeal Surfaces
- Rough Concrete
Excellent for shop floors and industrial settings
- Asphalt & Outdoor Surfaces
Durable for loading docks and yard trolleys
- General Manufacturing
Versatile for moderate loads and rough terrain
- Agricultural Equipment
Handles dirt, grit, and uneven ground
- Utility Carts
Reliable performance for a wide range of uses
Not Recommended
- Smooth Tile & Vinyl
Can leave black marks on light-colored floors
- Noise-Sensitive Spaces
Louder than polyurethane or TPR options
- Chemical Exposure
Some solvents may cause swelling or breakdown
- High-Speed Applications
Generates heat and may wear unevenly
- Cold Storage (<-10°C)
Hardens and loses elasticity in freezing conditions
9. Soft Rubber (60 Shore A)
MAX CUSHIONIdeal Surfaces
- Sensitive Cargo Transport
Vibration absorption protects fragile goods
- Hospitals & Labs
Quiet and smooth rolling in clinical settings
- Uneven Surfaces
Conforms to floor imperfections for stability
- Hand Trucks & Dollies
Easy to maneuver over door thresholds
- Light-Duty Mobile Equipment
Ideal for office and residential use
Not Recommended
- High Load Applications
Deforms and flattens under excessive weight
- Oily or Greasy Floors
May swell or break down with oil exposure
- Long-Distance Travel
High rolling resistance causes operator fatigue
- Outdoor/UV Exposure
Cracks and degrades in direct sunlight
- High-Speed Use
Heat buildup leads to faster wear
10. Air Inflatable (Pneumatic)
OUTDOOR KINGIdeal Surfaces
- Grass & Turf
Floats over soft ground without sinking
- Gravel & Dirt
Absorbs vibration for rough terrain handling
- Sand & Beach Areas
Distributes weight to prevent bogging
- Outdoor Events & Farms
Ideal for wheelbarrows, carts, hand trucks
- Shock-Sensitive Loads
Maximizes cushioning over bumps and drops
Not Recommended
- Indoor Smooth Floors
Bouncy feel and less control on flat surfaces
- High Load Static Use
Prone to flattening and puncture under pressure
- Sharp Debris Areas
Puncture risk from metal, glass, or thorns
- Chemical or Fuel Contact
Rubber degrades with petroleum or solvents
- Cold Storage
Air pressure drops, reducing effectiveness
11. Cast Iron
EXTREME LOADIdeal Surfaces
- Steel Rails & Tracks
Designed for rail-guided systems
- Foundries & Metalworks
Withstands extreme heat and heavy machinery
- Industrial Ovens
Heat-resistant up to 400°C+
- Forging Plants
Excellent durability under static and moving loads
- Heavy Die Carts
Carries loads exceeding 5,000 kg per wheel
Not Recommended
- Tile & Finished Floors
Will crack, chip, or damage surface
- Noise-Sensitive Areas
Extremely loud on any surface
- Vibration-Sensitive Cargo
Zero shock absorption
- Wet or Corrosive Environments
Rusts without protective coating
- Speed Applications
Sparks and heat at high velocity
12. Forged Steel
INDESTRUCTIBLEIdeal Surfaces
- Steel Industry
Transport of molten metal ladles and coils
- Mining & Quarry Equipment
Handles abrasive, heavy, and hot conditions
- Rail-Guided Systems
Precision tracking under extreme loads
- Heavy Cranes & Hoists
Load capacity exceeding 10,000 kg per wheel
- High-Temperature Zones
Operates up to 500°C without failure
Not Recommended
- Concrete Floors
Will crack and damage the surface
- Noise-Controlled Areas
Generates significant noise and vibration
- Floor-Protected Facilities
Impossible to use without floor damage
- Human-Operated Carts
Too heavy and dangerous for manual use
- Moisture-Prone Areas
Requires lubrication and rust prevention
13. Stainless Steel (Solid)
SANITARY GRADEIdeal Surfaces
- Pharmaceutical Facilities
Non-reactive, easy to sterilize
- Food & Beverage Processing
FDA/HACCP-compliant, corrosion-resistant
- Cleanroom Environments
Low particle emission, smooth surfaces
- Marine & Offshore
Saltwater and corrosion resistant
- High-Pressure Washdown
Withstands steam and chemical sanitizers
Not Recommended
- Tile & Finished Flooring
Hard surface causes scratches and cracks
- Noise-Sensitive Areas
Metal-on-floor contact is very loud
- Shock Loads
Zero vibration dampening
- Cost-Sensitive Applications
Premium pricing for material and finishing
- Non-Corrosive Environments
Overkill where standard materials suffice
14. Phenolic (High Temp)
HEAT & COSTIdeal Surfaces
- Bakeries & Industrial Ovens
Handles high-temp baking racks and trolleys
- Autoclave & Sterilization
Withstands steam and heat cycles
- High-Temp Processing
Continuous use up to 150°C
- Budget-Conscious Heavy Loads
Low-cost option for extreme weight
- Dry Manufacturing Floors
Stable on smooth, dry concrete
Not Recommended
- Wet or Damp Floors
Absorbs moisture, leading to swelling/cracking
- Tile, Vinyl & Sensitive Flooring
Scratches and damages surface finishes
- Noise-Sensitive Zones
High-decibel operation
- Shock & Vibration Loads
Brittle under impact; can chip or shatter
- Outdoor Use
UV and moisture degrade material quickly
15. ESD TPR (Electro-Static Dissipative)
ELECTRONICS SAFEIdeal Surfaces
- Electronics Manufacturing
Prevents static discharge to sensitive components
- Server Rooms & Data Centers
Safe mobility around sensitive equipment
- Semiconductor Fabs
ESD-rated for cleanroom compliance
- PCB Assembly Lines
Protects boards and chips during transport
- Explosive or Flammable Zones
Reduces spark and ignition risks
Not Recommended
- Non-ESD Applications
Premium cost not justified without static risk
- Outdoor or Rough Terrain
Designed for controlled indoor environments
- Extreme Loads
Limited load capacity compared to industrial options
- Chemical Spill Zones
May degrade with certain solvents
- High-Temperature Areas
ESD properties may diminish above 60°C
Material Compatibility Chart
Quick reference table comparing all 15 materials across key performance factors.
| Material | Floor Conditions | Environment | Performance | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth Concrete | Rough/Debris | Carpet/Turf | Tile/Lino | Water/Steam | Oil/Chem | Extreme Heat | Load Cap. | Floor Prot. | Quiet Roll | Easy Start | |
| Polyurethane (Std) | **** | ** | ** | **** | *** | ** | * | *** | **** | **** | **** |
| TPU Core | **** | ** | ** | **** | **** | *** | ** | *** | **** | **** | **** |
| PU Hard (70D) | **** | *** | * | *** | *** | *** | ** | **** | *** | ** | *** |
| Solid PU (70D) | **** | *** | * | *** | *** | *** | ** | **** | *** | ** | *** |
| Nylon 6 | *** | **** | * | ** | ** | **** | *** | **** | * | * | ** |
| Polypropylene | ** | ** | * | ** | *** | *** | * | ** | ** | ** | ** |
| TPR / TPE | **** | ** | *** | **** | ** | ** | * | ** | **** | **** | **** |
| Hard Rubber | *** | **** | *** | ** | ** | ** | ** | *** | ** | ** | *** |
| Soft Rubber | *** | *** | **** | *** | ** | * | * | ** | *** | **** | *** |
| Pneumatic | ** | **** | **** | ** | * | * | * | ** | *** | **** | ** |
| Cast Iron | ** | *** | * | * | ** | **** | **** | **** | * | * | ** |
| Forged Steel | ** | **** | * | * | ** | **** | **** | **** | * | * | ** |
| Stainless Steel | ** | *** | * | * | **** | **** | **** | **** | * | * | ** |
| Phenolic | *** | ** | * | ** | * | *** | **** | **** | * | * | ** |
| ESD TPR | **** | ** | *** | **** | ** | ** | * | ** | **** | **** | **** |
Important: Material compatibility ratings are for general reference only. Actual performance may vary based on specific load conditions, floor types, environmental factors, and usage patterns. For critical applications, please consult with our technical team.
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