PU casters. Caster wheels have been around for ages. And they come in all sorts of sizes and materials. A notable innovation in caster wheels is the usage of PU materials. They have been quickly adopted into various industries for their excellent shock absorption and resistance.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your office chair or improve the mobility of your equipment, understanding the benefits of PU casters can help you make an informed decision. So, let’s learn about what makes PU casters so widely popular and why you should consider getting them for your business operations.
What are PU Caster casters?
PU wheels are also known as polyurethane rubber, spring rubber, Polyurethane, or isocyanate polymer wheels. They are a unique type of elastomer that falls between plastic and rubber. Unlike regular plastic or rubber, PU caster wheels possess exceptional qualities.
They have impressive properties like high elasticity, strong shock absorption, tear resistance, abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, high strength, low-pressure resistance, radiation resistance, and high load carrying.
PU wheels have many hardness options and provide excellent cushioning performance. It is a one-of-a-kind product that combines the suppleness of rubber wheels with the hardness and longevity of metal wheels. Thus, Polyurethane is the ideal tread material for transportation, traction, and guide rollers.
PU casters Vs. Rubber casters: What’s The Difference?
PU wheels and rubber wheels have quite a lot of differences in terms of physical and mechanical properties. Let’s have a look:
Roll Resistance
Rubber wheels give superior traction on hard surfaces than steel wheels due to their softness. This makes them an excellent choice for smooth floors.
However, they may wear out more quickly than PU wheels and become wobbly as time goes by. Additionally, rubber wheels are less durable than polyurethane wheels and have a shorter lifespan.
Load Capacity
While rubber rollers have an average load capacity of 100-150 lbs, there may be better options for larger, heavier loads or extended use. Rubber rollers can damage specific floor types.
Consider polyurethane rollers like our PU Heavy Duty Casters for a more robust and durable option. Deriving from a rigid plastic material, polyurethane rollers can withstand wear and tear and are ideal for heavier or frequent use. With an average load capacity of 250-300 lbs, they’re an excellent choice for those needing extra support.
Cushioning
Regarding shock absorption in casters, both rubber and polyurethane options provide a higher level of cushioning.
However, regarding superior cushioning, rubber casters should be your pick. Ultimately, the cushioning needed will depend on the user’s preferences and work environment demands.
Resilience
Rubber casters are renowned for their exceptional shock absorption. Polyurethane casters are incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear compared to rubber casters.
Polyurethane is denser than rubber and more resistant to deformation. As a result, polyurethane casters are sturdier than rubber rollers. The only thing that beats Polyurethane in resistance is nylon. So, be sure to check out our Nylon Super Heavy Duty Casters.
Floor Conditions
Rubber wheels are famous for stress and noise-absorbing abilities on hard surfaces.(e.g. concrete or tile).
Polyurethane wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces like hardwood floors. They won’t leave scratches on the floor. Polyurethane wheels are also strong and long-lasting. They are softer and glide seamlessly on the floor.
Durability
PU is more durable. It is more complex than rubber, making it more wear and tear-resistant. Its mechanical properties are superior to rubber wheels. If you constantly use caster wheels on anything, you should go for PU wheels, as they ensure longevity.
Chemical Resistance
PU wheels are more chemical, oil, and solvent resistant than rubber wheels. They are resistant to a wide range of chemicals. So you don’t have to be concerned about harming the rollers when cleaning at work or home.
Heat Resistance
Polyurethane is a highly temperature-resistant material, surpassing rubber’s ability to maintain shape and function even in extreme temperatures. They can withstand temperatures from -40°F to 180°F without losing structural integrity.
Abrasion Resistance
Polyurethane wheels offer superior resistance to abrasion compared to rubber wheels, making them highly durable even when subjected to harsh weather conditions or uneven surfaces.
With their exceptional durability, polyurethane wheels are less prone to quick wear and tear, offering a longer lifespan and reliable performance.
The following table summarises the differences between PU wheels and rubber wheels:
| Characteristics | PU Wheels | Rubber Wheels |
| Roll Resistance | Provide less traction than rubber wheels | Provide great traction |
| Load Capacity | 250-300 lbs. | 100-150 lbs. |
| Cushioning | Average cushioning | Better cushioning |
| Resilience | More resistant to compression and deformation | Less resilience compared to PU wheels |
| Floor Conditions | Ideal for smooth surfaces like hardwood floors | Ideal for hard surfaces like concrete or tile |
| Durability | More durable | Less durable |
| Chemical Resistance | More chemical resistant | Less chemical resistant |
| Heat Resistance | More heat resistant | Less heat resistant |
| Abrasion Resistance | Better abrasion resistant | Average abrasion resistant |
How Long Do PU Casters Last?
Skateboard wheels typically last around three months, but it’s hard to pinpoint their exact lifespan due to various factors that come into play. Some wheels wear out quickly, while others can last much longer.
This is why some skateboarders can use one set of wheels for years while others have to replace them after just a few months. To maximize the longevity of your skateboard wheels, choosing the right ones for your board and riding style is essential.
By selecting the perfect set of wheels, you can avoid replacing them frequently and spend more time enjoying your ride.
Why Should You Get PU Casters?
If you want to upgrade your equipment, consider getting PU caster wheels. They are known for their excellent durability, floor protection, and load capacity. Here are some reasons why you should consider getting PU caster wheels:
1. Floor Protection
PU caster wheels are designed to protect your floors from scratches, scuffs, and other damage. They are made from a soft material that is gentle on your feet yet strong enough to withstand heavy loads. It means you can move your equipment around without worrying about damaging your floors.
2. Super Quiet
Another advantage of PU caster wheels is that they are quieter than others. The polyurethane material absorbs sound, reducing the noise when moving your equipment around. Working in a calm environment where noise can be distracting is especially important.
3. Excellent Resilience
PU caster wheels are known for their excellent resilience. They can withstand heavy loads without deforming or breaking.
It means you can use them for a long time without replacing them. They are also resistant to wear and tear, meaning they will last longer than other types of wheels.
4. Great Load Capacity
PU caster wheels have a high load capacity. It is because the polyurethane material is solid and durable.
It makes them ideal for use in industries such as manufacturing and distribution, where heavy loads are expected.
Conclusion – PU Casters
As we conclude our discussion about PU casters, we hope you now understand what they are, how they work, and what benefits they offer. PU casters are durable, efficient, and versatile, making them an excellent choice for various industrial applications.
Whether looking for casters for your office chair, medical equipment, or heavy machinery, PU casters can provide the necessary reliability and performance. So next time you are in the market for new casters, consider PU casters as an option. They may be the solution you have been looking for. So, if you’re interested, check out our product catalog.