Pneumatic wheels are hollow tires made of rubber that contain pressurized air that aids in the absorption of vibration and shock. They are similar to vehicle tires and provide casters with smooth rolling, even on bumpy, cracked or uneven surfaces. Pneumatic tires do not damage or leave marks on any flooring. They come in many different sizes but generally have a longer width than other caster wheels.
Related Categories
As an alternative to solid wheels made of a wide variety of materials, the aerospace, electronics, medical, agricultural and manufacturing industries use the air-filled rubber pneumatic wheels to transport sensitive or breakable equipment, parts and items like electronic and computer parts and medical devices, instruments and equipment. The cushioned ride and quiet operation allow safe transfer of delicate objects made of glass or ceramics as well as products like musical instruments and fragile electronics. Nursery trolleys, compressors, steam cleaners and agricultural equipment are also carried on casters with pneumatic wheels. Since these wheels fare well on rough surfaces, they are the first choice for outdoor applications. They are able to roll smoothly on many different surfaces, including gravel and grass, which they do not sink down into.
Casters with pneumatic wheels are for manually pushed operations at slower speeds. They require proper tire inflation and need to maintain a certain air pressure in order to function properly. Their exterior has different tread patterns, which are generally either ribbed or diamond shaped, for extra traction on slippery surfaces. When the treads have worn and are no longer raised, the tire needs replacement. The tread may be hard or soft, depending on the floor or ground surface. It is made through the rubber extrusion process and is cut down to the desired length. While the tire is almost always made of rubber, the rim is either polypropylene or welded steel, both of which materials are resistant to extreme temperatures and moisture. Pneumatic wheels are strictly for manually-pushed operations. Since they are only able to travel as fast as four miles per hour, they are never components of automated vehicles of any kind. The carts and furniture with these wheels must be pushed, not towed. A pneumatic tire with maximum air pressure will give the most cushion, but it will sacrifice some traction. A tire with less air provides the opposite. Therefore, a medium amount of air pressure allows both traction and cushioning. Carefully pairing a pneumatic wheel system with its application will help to ensure the long term functionality and safe operation of the wheel system.
