V Roller

A V roller is one of the most versatile and simple ways to control the flow of a load, and they are found in a variety of industries and settings. Designed to function in harsh, rugged environments and provide years of trusty service, these components have to be able to handle heavy loads while remaining stable. That’s a lot to demand from a material, and why most facilities turn to polyurethane for their needs. Not only can polyurethane withstand the weight and pressure placed on the wheels, it can also hold up under constant heat and moisture.

What is a V roller typically used for?

These components can be found in any application where a lot of material has to be moved in a steady, safe fashion. There are, of course, many facilities that have such a need. Some of those applications include:

  • Facilities that rely on automation. Assemblers and multi-line machines have to move quickly and smoothly from one location to the next.
  • Facilities that contain large doors or gates. Ovens, refrigerators, hazardous storage, and security gates come with heavy doors that are designed to slide without putting people in harm’s way.
  • Facilities that operate a lot of conveyors, particularly those that rely on production line sequencing.
  • Facilities that utilize machining, as metal and woodworking machines require precise tool handling.

A V roller can assist with all of these operations, but it has to be designed and built precisely to ensure proper function. The angle cut into the wheel has to mimic the inverted angle built into the guide perfectly, as any deviation will result in friction and vibration. A parallel angle promotes consistent tracking and extended performance, and in some cases, a guide rail can also ensure the wheel functions properly.

Why should facilities consider polyurethane materials for their needs?

When people think of heavy duty components, they usually think of metals or heavy plastics, but polyurethane offers several advantages over both. For example:

  • Polyurethane is extremely resistant to tough environmental conditions, such as high heat and humidity, as well as inclement weather. This means it can be used inside and out, which is helpful for exterior gates or doors.
  • Polyurethane retains its shape even when subjected to a great deal of pressure or weight. Again, this makes it useful for guiding heavy doors or gates. Depending on the polyurethane’s composition, it can handle hundreds, even thousands of pounds.
  • Polyurethane is almost endlessly shapeable, so any angle can be cut into the guide wheel.
  • Polyurethane resists vibration, which is highly useful for machining tools or other applications that require precision.
  • Polyurethane can usually be cast with shorter lead times than other materials, allowing facilities to access their products faster.

Facilities demand a lot from their V roller components, and polyurethane should be the first choice in material to meet those demands.



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