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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).

Shore A Scale:
  • 60A: Soft rubber (max cushion)
  • 85-95A: Standard polyurethane
  • 95A: Hard rubber
Shore D Scale:
  • 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 VERSATILE

Ideal 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 READY

Ideal 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 CAPACITY

Ideal 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 DELAMINATION

Ideal 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 RESISTANT

Ideal 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

ECONOMICAL

Ideal 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 & CLEAN

Ideal 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 UTILITY

Ideal 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 CUSHION

Ideal 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 KING

Ideal 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 LOAD

Ideal 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

INDESTRUCTIBLE

Ideal 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 GRADE

Ideal 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 & COST

Ideal 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 SAFE

Ideal 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.

Excellent
Good
Fair
Not Recommended
MaterialFloor ConditionsEnvironmentPerformance
Smooth ConcreteRough/DebrisCarpet/TurfTile/LinoWater/SteamOil/ChemExtreme HeatLoad Cap.Floor Prot.Quiet RollEasy 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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