What Shore Hardness Grades Are Available for Solid Rubber Wheels?

When choosing solid rubber wheels¹ for specific applications, one of the most important factors to consider is the Shore hardness grade. This measure of hardness directly influences the performance and durability of the wheels.

Solid rubber wheels are available in various Shore hardness grades, typically ranging from Shore A 30 to Shore A 90. The hardness of the wheel affects flexibility, load-bearing capacity, shock absorption, and traction, making it essential to select the right grade for your needs.

The Shore hardness scale helps determine the right balance between flexibility and durability. Let's dive into the different grades and their applications.

What Are Solid Rubber Wheels?

Solid rubber wheels are widely used in numerous industries due to their durability and ability to perform in various conditions. But understanding the Shore hardness grades² is crucial to selecting the best wheel for your specific needs.

Solid rubber wheels are made from 100% rubber and do not require air inflation. Their hardness, measured by the Shore scale, varies depending on the intended application, affecting how they handle load and impact.

Solid rubber wheels come in a range of Shore hardness grades. Here's a closer look at the most common grades and what each one offers in terms of flexibility, load-bearing capacity, and durability.

Shore A 30-40 (Soft Rubber Wheels)

• Flexibility: High
• Load-bearing capacity: Low to moderate
• Shock absorption: Excellent

These soft rubber wheels provide the best shock absorption and smooth movement, ideal for environments where a quiet, cushioned ride is essential. They excel in applications like medical equipment, lightweight carts, and office furniture. While they are not suitable for heavy loads, they provide smooth and quiet operation on hard floors.

Shore A 50-60 (Medium Soft Rubber Wheels)

• Flexibility: Moderate
• Load-bearing capacity: Moderate
• Shock absorption: Moderate

Medium-soft wheels offer a good balance between flexibility and load-bearing capacity. They are suitable for general industrial applications where moderate shock absorption and durability are necessary. These wheels are commonly found on warehouse carts, material handling equipment, and some types of machinery.

Shore A 70-80 (Hard Rubber Wheels)

• Flexibility: Low
• Load-bearing capacity: High
• Shock absorption: Poor

Hard rubber wheels are built for heavy-duty applications. They offer excellent load-bearing capacity and durability but do not provide the same shock absorption as softer wheels. These wheels are typically used in industrial carts, forklifts, and heavy machinery where durability and long service life are key priorities.

Shore A 90+ (Very Hard Rubber Wheels)

• Flexibility: Very Low
• Load-bearing capacity: Very High
• Shock absorption: Very Poor

Very hard rubber wheels³ are designed for the toughest applications. They are ideal for industrial machinery, construction vehicles, and other heavy-duty uses. These wheels are the most durable but offer the least shock absorption, making them unsuitable for applications that require smooth or cushioned movement.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Shore hardness grade for solid rubber wheels is essential for optimizing performance. Whether you need shock absorption or heavy load-bearing capacity, selecting the correct grade ensures reliability and durability for your application.