Idler Roller

An idler roller is the backbone of a material-handling or conveying system, ferrying objects of any size or weight in some of the harshest conditions possible. The ideal system is highly durable, quick to manufacture, and highly customizable, and MUI’s products emphasize these traits. Whether a company needs a small, light duty system or a customized system that can handle extreme loads, MUI can produce the needed components. And with the inherent benefits of polyurethane, a system can provide reliable service for many years.

What must a company consider when integrating an idler roller system?

Polyurethane Idler RollersThese systems are highly versatile, and when produced using polyurethane, they are extremely flexible. While this means that there is a system for every application, it also means a company must establish its needs and the work environment before purchasing a system. Specifically, when integrating a new conveyor or material-handler, a company should know the following:

  • The expected amount of weight that the system will regularly be subjected to.
  • The required speed of the conveyor.
  • Any environmental hazards or hazards presented by conveyed material. For example, if a facility is subjected to high heat, or if any materials will present an abrasion or corrosion risk, this will be important during polyurethane molding.

MUI can thoroughly customize any system, and with its engineering team, it can test and modify any components to ensure an optimal outcome. For example, they can produce an idler roller up to 16 feet in length and 10 feet in diameter, and can offer a number of custom inserts, molds, and designs for its systems.

What makes polyurethane the ideal material for material-handling and conveying?

Polyurethane offers the best qualities of metal, rubber and plastic, outperforming all three when placed under stressful conditions. Specifically, these are some important polyurethane traits that will make the difference in a conveyor system:

  • Unmatched heat and electrical resistance. Polyurethane generally performs as a thermosetting polymer, which means it does not warp or weaken when exposed to high heat. It also possesses strong insulating qualities.
  • Abrasion, tear, and impact resistance. Put simply, polyurethane can withstand a great deal of physical force, no matter what kind of force it is. It possesses strong tensile qualities and can withstand both tension and compression.
  • Resistance to most environmental conditions and hazards. Polyurethane can shrug off water, oil, extreme temperatures, and most substances, so it can be placed nearly anywhere. This includes humid and tropical conditions, as polyurethane does not support mold or mildew growth.
  • Low vibration. Minimal vibration is essential for an idler roller, as it ensures materials are not jostled and that the system’s integrity does not degrade. Polyurethane resists vibration, again making it a strong choice for material-handling.

Conveying and material-handling systems often have to weather extreme wear and conditions to do their job, and MUI’s polyurethane systems are up to the task.



More Info