Wrong wheel choice breaks down equipment and slows projects. Heavy-duty carts with weak wheels cause accidents, downtime, and higher replacement costs.
Heavy-duty rubber wheels usually support loads from 200 kg to 1,000 kg per wheel, depending on diameter, core material, and tread design.
I have helped many procurement officers choose between solid rubber wheels and aluminum-core versions. Let me share how load capacity works and how to pick the right one.
What affects the load capacity of rubber wheels?
Load capacity is not random. It depends on wheel size, material, and design. Ignoring these factors leads to failed wheels and costly downtime.
The load capacity of rubber wheels depends on diameter, tread hardness, core material, and whether the wheel is solid or pneumatic.
Key Factors that Influence Load Capacity
| Factor | Impact on Capacity |
|---|---|
| Diameter1 📏 | Larger wheels carry more weight and roll easier on rough floors. |
| Tread Hardness2 🛠️ | Harder rubber resists deformation, supporting more load but reducing comfort. |
| Core Material3 ⚙️ | Aluminum or steel cores provide higher capacity than plastic. |
| Construction 🧩 | Solid rubber handles more load than pneumatic, but pneumatic offers cushioning. |
In my factory, I often explain to buyers that a 200 mm solid rubber wheel with aluminum core4 easily handles 500–600 kg. But a pneumatic wheel of the same size supports less, around 150–250 kg, because air-filled construction limits strength.
What are the typical load capacity5 ranges?
Many buyers ask me for “heavy-duty wheels” without knowing exact ranges. Clear numbers help avoid wrong specifications.
Most heavy-duty rubber wheels carry 300–1,000 kg per wheel. Medium-duty wheels support 100–300 kg, while light-duty wheels support below 100 kg.
Typical Load Ranges by Wheel Type
| Wheel Type | Typical Load Capacity (per wheel) | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Light-duty Rubber Wheels6 | Up to 100 kg | Small trolleys, household carts |
| Medium-duty Rubber Wheels7 | 100–300 kg | Office carts, hospital trolleys, retail equipment |
| Heavy-duty Rubber Wheels | 300–1,000 kg | Forklifts, hydraulic hand trucks, industrial carts |
I once had a customer in Germany request rubber wheels for a floor scrubber machine. After checking specs, we selected 250 mm aluminum-core rubber wheels rated for 750 kg. They were durable and reduced vibration, which was critical for operators working daily shifts.
How do rubber wheels compare with polyurethane wheels for heavy loads?
Buyers often compare rubber wheels with polyurethane wheels8. Both work, but their strength and durability differ.
Polyurethane wheels carry heavier loads with less wear, while rubber wheels offer comfort and quietness at moderate to high loads.
Rubber vs Polyurethane Load Capacity
| Feature | Rubber Wheels | Polyurethane Wheels |
|---|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 300–1,000 kg | 500–1,500+ kg |
| Comfort & Shock Absorption | High – softer tread absorbs vibration | Medium – less cushioning, harder ride |
| Noise Level | Low – quiet operation | Higher – harder tread transmits noise |
| Wear Resistance | Moderate – wears faster on rough floors | High – long life under heavy use |
I tell my clients: if you need maximum load with long life, PU is stronger. If you need grip, quietness, and comfort, heavy-duty rubber wheels9 are the right choice.
Why is accurate load capacity10 important when ordering wheels?
Underestimating load capacity causes accidents. Overestimating leads to higher costs. Correct values keep operations safe and efficient.
Accurate load capacity ensures safety, reduces downtime, and avoids premature wheel failure.
When I prepare offers, I always ask buyers about total equipment weight, number of wheels, and floor type. For example, if a cart weighs 800 kg and has four wheels, each wheel must carry at least 250 kg. Adding a safety margin, I suggest 300–350 kg per wheel. This small detail often saves projects from costly breakdowns.
Conclusion
Heavy-duty rubber wheels usually handle 300–1,000 kg per wheel. The right choice depends on wheel size, core material, and application needs.
-
Understanding wheel diameter's effect on load capacity helps in selecting the right wheels for your needs, ensuring safety and efficiency. ↩
-
Understanding tread hardness is crucial for selecting the right wheels, as it directly affects load capacity and comfort. ↩
-
Explore this resource to understand how core materials like aluminum and steel impact load capacity and durability. ↩
-
Find out why aluminum core wheels are preferred for heavy loads and durability. ↩
-
Understanding load capacity is crucial for selecting the right wheels for your needs. ↩
-
Explore this resource to understand the specifications and best applications for light-duty rubber wheels, ensuring you make informed purchasing decisions. ↩
-
Explore this resource for detailed specifications and load capacities of medium-duty rubber wheels, ensuring you make informed purchasing decisions. ↩
-
Get insights on the differences between polyurethane and rubber wheels for informed purchasing. ↩
-
Explore the applications of heavy-duty rubber wheels to ensure you choose the right type for your projects. ↩
-
Learn why accurate load capacity is essential for safety and efficiency in operations. ↩
