30 October, 2026 | 
Admin
Synthetic Turf in Saudi Arabia
Short answer: Synthetic t
Read morePolyurethane (PU) and HPU Rods, Sheets, Wheels and Rollers: Selection Guide
30 October, 2026 | Admin
Short answer: Polyurethane is a tough, elastic
material that combines the flexibility of rubber with the strength of
plastic. It resists abrasion, cutting and tearing and carries heavy
loads. It is used for wheels, rollers, sheets, liners and wear parts.
HPU (hydrolysis-resistant polyurethane) is a grade made to survive hot,
wet conditions where ordinary polyurethane would break down.
Key properties
- excellent abrasion and tear resistance
- high load-bearing capacity for an elastic material
- good resistance to oils and greases
- elasticity and good shock absorption
- wide hardness range, from soft to hard
Hardness
PU hardness is usually given on the Shore A or Shore D scale. A lower
Shore A is softer and more rubbery, and gives better grip and
cushioning. A higher hardness is stiffer, carries more load and rolls
easily. Choose based on the load, the speed and whether you need grip or
low rolling resistance. A typical question is whether to use a harder or
softer wheel: harder for smooth floors and heavy loads, softer for grip
and noise reduction.
Free engineering tools
- Plastic weight calculator — Work out the weight of Polyurethane sheets, rods and tubes in kg
Polyester vs polyether, and
HPU
PU is made in different chemistries. Polyester types are generally
strong and oil resistant, but they can break down in hot, wet conditions
(hydrolysis). Polyether types resist water better. HPU grades are made
specifically for hot water, humidity, steam and tropical conditions. If
your part sits in water, or in a hot humid environment, ask for HPU or a
hydrolysis-resistant grade.
Typical uses
| Application | Why PU |
|---|---|
| Wheels and castors | Load capacity and floor protection |
| Rollers and drive wheels | Grip and wear resistance |
| Liners and screens in mining | Abrasion resistance |
| Seals, bushes and pads | Elasticity |
| Sheet for press pads and cutting | Toughness |
PU compared with rubber and
nylon
PU outlasts rubber in abrasion and cutting, and carries more load. It
is more elastic than nylon and quieter. Rubber remains better for some
weather, ozone and low-cost uses. For rigid wear parts, nylon or UHMWPE
may suit better.
Machining and care
PU can be machined with sharp tools and cooling. Keep it away from
strong solvents and hot, wet conditions unless you have chosen HPU.
Store away from direct sunlight.
What to send
Form (rod, sheet, wheel, roller), size, hardness, application, load,
temperature and whether it is wet or humid. Diode Trading EST supplies
polyurethane products in Saudi Arabia, and every order ships with a
Material Test Certificate. request a quote
Ordering tips
For wheels, give the wheel diameter, width, bore, core type and the
load per wheel. For rods and sheets, give the diameter or thickness, the
length and the hardness. If the part is in wet, hot service, say so, so
that a hydrolysis-resistant grade can be offered.
Questions to ask your
supplier
What is the Shore hardness, and is it A or D? Is the grade polyester
or polyether, or HPU? What is the tolerance on the wheel or rod size?
Can wheels be cast on a core, and what core material is used? Can sheets
be cut or machined to a drawing?
Common mistakes to avoid
- choosing a polyester grade for a wet or humid environment, where it
can break down - using a very soft wheel under heavy load, which overheats and
fails - ignoring chemicals and solvents that can swell the surface
- selecting by hardness alone without checking load and speed
Care and storage
Store polyurethane away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid
prolonged contact with strong solvents, acids and bases unless the grade
is rated for them. For wheels that sit under load for long periods,
rotate them occasionally to avoid flat spots.
FAQ
What is HPU? A hydrolysis-resistant polyurethane
made to survive hot, wet conditions.
How do I choose PU hardness? Harder for load and
rolling, softer for grip and cushion.
Is polyurethane better than rubber? For abrasion,
cutting and load capacity, usually yes.
Can polyurethane be machined? Yes, with sharp
tools.
Related: Nylon Guide · UHMWPE Guide · Rubber Sheets Guide
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