How to choose the correct wheels for a gritty floor

Wheels made from Vulkollan, a powerful elastomer, are ideal for heavy loads. They’re non-marking and can withstand a wide range of ambient temperatures. They also stay strong through extended periods of use, making them ideal for long shifts. Along with standard Vulkollan wheels, TVH offers several options to suit different conditions: 

• Tractothan wheels are made of Vulkollan composite material. It offers the same impressive properties as Vulkollan, but with even better traction. Along with excellent grip, Tractothan wheels deliver increased braking efficiency, meaning the machine can be stopped quickly to avoid collisions. This makes Tractothan wheels one of the safest choices when working on wet floors and in cold environments. However, they’re not suitable in places where antistatic wheels are required.
• High-density Vulkollan wheels are perfect in hot and humid environments (above 25°C), as well as in the frosty conditions of cold storage (below 0 °C). They also offer excellent grip in both oily and wet conditions. 
• Vulkollan Quartz wheels are great if slippery floors are your main concern. They deliver maximum traction, however, it’s also important to note that they may leave marks on polished concrete. 
• Soft Vulkollan wheels reduce noise and vibration considerably and are a great option for cold and/or slippery conditions, but they’re not the best choice if you’re working in the heat.  

Vulkollan antistatic wheels are a safe choice if you’re concerned about the risk of explosion in hazardous environments. They’re ideal in both high and low temperatures and offer great grip on wet or oily surfaces.

Steel wheels are super-tough and non-marking, but they make a lot of noise. You won’t find them on material handling equipment like forklifts, but they still have their place in the warehouse. They’re mainly installed on waste containers. Steel wheels are suitable for use on gritty floors when the ambient temperature is above 25 °C, but not recommended for use in cold, humid, oily or wet environments.

Rubber wheels can be a great option for shifts that are less than eight hours long. For longer shifts, you’re better off choosing a tougher material like Vulkollan. There are a few different types of rubber wheels that are suitable for gritty floors in certain circumstances: 

• Non-marking rubber wheels are great in situations where hygiene is important, such as in the food industry, and can be used in cold temperatures, high humidity and on wet surfaces. 
• Black rubber wheels are suitable in humid conditions and on wet surfaces. They are quiet and offer a smooth ride, which is great if transporting delicate items. However, it’s important to note that black rubber wheels are also likely to leave marks on the floor. 
• Antistatic rubber wheels can be used in humid and wet environments, and places where antistatic wheels are essential. 

Ensuring machines are fitted with the best wheels for the job is imperative for maximising safety. By choosing wheels that are optimised for use on gritty floors, you can avoid accidents, breakdowns and downtime. Want more help selecting the best wheels for your situation? Check out our wheel selector to find the best fit.