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Top Considerations For Choosing The Best Urethane Rollers

Urethane rollers are essential for various industrial activities such as printing and material handling. They are made from polyurethane, a durable and versatile material that provides wear resistance, high load-bearing capacity, and the ability to withstand harsh environments. When choosing urethane rollers, you should understand the several types available, e.g., drive rollers, conveyor rollers, idler rollers, ringer rollers, pinch rollers, nip rollers, pulleys, etc. Each one has its specific functions depending on the nature of your activities. Below is a guide to consider when choosing urethane rollers for your applications. 

The Roller's Durometer 

Durometer refers to the hardness of the urethane rollers, and it's an essential factor to consider depending on the roller application and the amount of pressure it'll be subjected to. Urethane rollers are available in various durometers, from soft to hard, and your dealer helps you make the right choice that meets your needs. For example, picking soft urethane rollers is ideal if your company transports delicate materials such as electronic components. On the other hand, hard urethane rollers make the best choice for heavy-duty applications such as material handling, where the roller is subjected to a lot of pressure. 

The Type of Roller Bearings 

The second crucial thing to consider is the type of bearings the roller use. Urethane rollers come with precision and standard bearing, and each one of them has its unique function. For instance, taking rollers with precision bearings gets you smoother operation, less friction, and better alignment. Examples of applications that need precision bearings include printing, aerospace, semiconductor, manufacturing, and medical operations. On the other hand, standing roller bearings are economical when dealing with applications without precision. Examples of such applications include construction, agriculture, and general material handling. 

The Type of Core Used

The core is the inner part of the roller that provides structure and support for the urethane material. They come in various materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastic, and your choice depends on the weight the urethane roller will be subjected to. Rollers with steel and aluminum cores will work perfectly if you engage in heavy-duty activities that entail heavyweight products. They withstand high pressure caused by heavy products without damage. On the other hand, rollers with plastic cores provide a cost-effective choice if you engage in lightweight activities and products.

Take Away

The durometer, roller bearing, and core type are critical to consider when choosing urethane rollers for your activities. Other issues include surface finish, size, and the overall quality of the urethane roller. Contact a local urethane roller dealer to learn more.


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