Track Rollers

Track rollers are some of the sturdiest load bearing components available, capable of withstanding thousands of pounds of force. Though they come in a huge variety of designs, they are generally simple in form and function. All are cylindrical in shape, as these components act like small wheels that can facilitate conveyor movements and cam drives. The rounded end is typically grooved so that it can slot into a rail and move freely without falling off the rail. In effect, this only allows movement on a single axis, which is preferred for many applications.

The Power of Track Rollers

Track RollersAt first glance, these simple components may seem limited in their capabilities, but their unassuming appearance masks an extremely useful piece of technology. Here are a few examples of what it can do:

  1. Large doors and gates – manufacturing and processing facilities that need to apply heat or cold usually do so with the use of commercial ovens or freezers. Pushing these doors open and closing them is a slow process that puts a lot of strain on facility workers. With track rollers in place, bulky commercial doors can be set on rails, allowing workers to swing them open and close them again with minimal effort.
  2. Machining and shaping tools – in the metal fabrication and metal milling industries, shaping metallic components is essential and is normally done with heavy duty cutting and drilling machines. It’s too delicate of a job to do by hand, so it is typically managed with precise robotic arms that lathe and cut the metal where needed. Grooved wheels and rails can keep these arms operating precisely and smoothly, ensuring maximum accuracy during fabrication.
  3. Conveyor systems – they are also an essential element in many conveyor systems, allowing manufacturing facilities to transport heavy loads of material while subjecting the load to minimal force and friction. Such conveyors are often found in shipping and food processing facilities, and offer an inexpensive, efficient option for facilities of any size.

Polyurethane Components Make the Most Sense

It’s true that this simple technology is durable and reliable, but components made from polyurethane are even more resilient to damage. Polyurethane is a polymer that can be produced from a variety of substances, allowing polyurethane manufacturers to find the perfect combination of hardness, strength and other properties.

All polyurethane is highly resistant to corrosion, heat, cold and moisture, which makes it an ideal choice in areas where the elements are a challenge. It can even be used in subsea applications, such as pipeline operations, as exposure to saltwater will not erode its integrity. Most importantly, though, is that polyurethane can handle impressive abrasive, shear and impact forces, so it will wear down slowly.