How to Choose the Correct Wheels for A Gritty Floor

In warehouses, factories, construction sites, or outdoor logistics scenarios, ground conditions vary widely. Selecting the right wheels for rough surfaces is crucial for enhancing equipment reliability and service life. In industrial workshops, construction sites, warehousing and logistics parks, or outdoor areas, rough ground is a common scenario—potholes, gravel, bumps, cracks, oil stains, or uneven concrete floors not only affect the smooth movement of equipment but also accelerate wheel wear, reduce operational efficiency, and even lead to safety hazards.

Before making a selection, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the usage environment. Common rough surfaces include: lightly rough (worn concrete floors, surfaces with fine cracks), moderately rough (gravel roads, uneven construction site surfaces), and severely rough (unleveled dirt roads, outdoor areas littered with debris). Additionally, factors such as oil stains, corrosive substances, high or low temperatures should be considered, as these can influence the choice of wheel material.

The rougher the ground, the higher the requirements for the wheel’s passability, wear resistance, and shock absorption capability. Wheel Material: Determining Compatibility and Durability Material is the core factor in dealing with rough surfaces. Different materials vary significantly in wear resistance, impact resistance, and slip resistance. Below are recommendations for mainstream materials:

Polyurethane (PU) Wheels

PU wheels are the "all-rounders" for rough surfaces, combining the elasticity of rubber with the wear resistance of plastic. Shore hardness can be adjusted as needed (typically 85–95A). Advantages include: excellent shock absorption, cushioning the impact of ground bumps on equipment and goods; strong wear resistance, less prone to scratches from gravel or sharp objects; superior slip resistance, ensuring stable movement even on slightly oily surfaces. Suitable for: lightly to moderately rough surfaces, such as workshop concrete floors, gravel roads, or leveled outdoor dirt roads, widely used for forklifts, hand trucks, and AGV equipment.Note: Avoid using on severely uneven surfaces with sharp protrusions, as this may cause cracking of the wheel surface.

Rubber Wheels

Rubber wheels (natural or synthetic rubber) offer excellent elasticity and better shock absorption than PU wheels, effectively reducing the bumpiness of rough surfaces while providing quiet operation. Suitable for: lightly rough surfaces where shock absorption and noise reduction are priorities, such as worn workshop floors or logistics warehouse aisles. Note: Wear resistance is lower than PU wheels, making them vulnerable to damage from sharp objects. They are unsuitable for surfaces with abundant gravel or sharp protrusions and are not resistant to oil stains—avoid oily environments.

Nylon (PA) Wheels

Nylon wheels are highly rigid, with strong load-bearing capacity and excellent wear resistance. They can withstand abrasion from rough surfaces like gravel or bumps, while also resisting high temperatures, oil stains, and deformation. Suitable for: moderately to severely rough surfaces, such as construction sites, outdoor dirt roads, or heavy-duty forklift operation areas, ideal for scenarios demanding high load-bearing capacity and wear resistance. Note: Poor elasticity and weak shock absorption, with noticeable noise during operation. Excessively bumpy surfaces may affect cargo stability. Consider pairing with shock-absorbing bearings.

What to Consider Before You Choose：Actual ground type and condition、Wheel material suited to your surface、Wheel size — diameter and width、Load capacity (add a safety margin)、Any need for steering ease or braking.

Need Help Deciding?If you’re outfitting a forklift, hand truck, or industrial cart for rough ground, we’re here to help. Get in touch— we’ll guide you to the right wheel for the job.