How to choose a polyurethane caster with excellent shock absorption performance?

Selecting a polyurethane caster with excellent shock absorption performance requires a comprehensive consideration of three aspects: material parameters, structural design, and practical testing. The following are key points:

First, focus on the core indicators of the polyurethane material. Hardness (Shore A) is crucial, and products with a Shore A of 60-85 are recommended. A hardness below 60 will result in insufficient load-bearing capacity and easy deformation; a hardness above 85 will reduce elasticity and weaken the shock absorption effect. Also, verify the material's elastic recovery rate. High-quality products rebound quickly after compression without noticeable dents. This can be tested by simply pressing the wheel surface with your finger. Ask the supplier to provide a density test report. High-quality polyurethane typically has a density of 1.1-1.3 g/cm³, and density uniformity directly affects shock absorption stability.

Second, consider the wheel body structure design. Hollow structures or wheels with elastic interlayers are preferred. These designs use air cushioning or multiple layers of elastic material to disperse vibration, providing better shock absorption than solid wheels. The wheel diameter should be selected to suit the application. Under the same conditions, a slightly larger wheel diameter (e.g., 100-150mm) provides a more even contact patch and less bumpy rolling. Furthermore, a wheel with a rounded tread and smooth edge transitions can reduce the impact of uneven surfaces.

Finally, conduct tests based on actual needs. Check that the wheel and bracket are connected with elastic bushings to avoid rigid connections that weaken vibration damping. Test in simulated usage scenarios. Products with low noise and minimal bumps during pushing are preferred. Also, balance load requirements to ensure the wheels maintain adequate elasticity under rated load to avoid overloading that could cause vibration damping failure.