Comparing PU and Nylon Wheels for Hand Pallet Trucks

PU and Nylon wheels for hand pallet trucks are the two leading choices in the lifting industry, especially with high-quality products from Naltako. With distinct characteristics, PU wheels offer smoothness and floor protection, while Nylon wheels stand out for their durability and corrosion resistance. This article will analyze in detail the pros and cons, applications, dimensions, and how to choose the right wheels to help you make the best decision for your needs. Let’s explore the optimal solutions from Naltako!

Comparing PU and Nylon Wheels for Hand Pallet Trucks

When choosing wheels for a hand pallet truck, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of PU and Nylon wheels is crucial. PU wheels (polyurethane) are notable for their smooth operation, noise reduction, and ability to protect warehouse floors from scratches. This makes PU the ideal choice for indoor environments such as retail warehouses, supermarkets, or factories with flat epoxy floors. According to research, PU wheels have superior load-bearing capacity, with a maximum load approximately 20% higher than Nylon of the same size (for example, a 180x50mm PU wheel can support 500kg, while Nylon supports about 400kg). The average lifespan of PU wheels ranges from 3-5 years under ideal flat-surface conditions. However, PU has the disadvantage of a higher cost and lower durability when exposed to wet environments or chemicals.

Conversely, Nylon wheels are preferred in heavy industrial environments due to their high durability and outstanding corrosion resistance. Nylon performs well on rough surfaces, in cold storage, or areas with chemicals such as food processing plants. However, Nylon wheels can be noisy during movement and may damage sensitive floors like wood or ceramic tiles. Nylon is more durable than PU in harsh environments, with an average lifespan exceeding 5 years under outdoor or uneven surface conditions.

Industrial Applications of PU and Nylon Wheels

PU and Nylon wheels are widely applied in various industries thanks to their unique properties. PU wheels are the optimal choice for indoor environments with flat floors, such as retail warehouses, supermarkets, or electronic component manufacturing plants. PU helps low-profile hand pallet trucks or high-lift pallet trucks move smoothly, reduce vibration, and protect floors from damage. For instance, in the retail industry, 80x70mm PU wheels are commonly used for pallet jacks to transport light goods without damaging tile floors.

Meanwhile, Nylon wheels are ideal for harsher environments such as cold storage, food processing plants, or construction sites. Nylon withstands impacts from rough surfaces, chemicals, and moisture, making it suitable for hand pallet trucks transporting heavy loads in heavy industries. For example, in cold storage, 180x50mm Nylon wheels are popular due to their corrosion resistance and performance maintenance at low temperatures.

Common Dimensions of PU-Nylon Pallet Truck Wheels

Wheel size is a critical factor when choosing spare parts for hand pallet trucks. Common sizes for PU and Nylon wheels include:

• 180x50mm: Typically used for the steering wheels of hand pallet trucks, suitable for high load capacities (400-500kg per wheel).
• 80x70mm: Used for load wheels, ideal for low-profile pallet trucks in light warehouses.
• 70x80mm: Common for high-lift pallet trucks, supporting goods transport at height.

Selecting the correct size depends on the type of pallet truck and the load being transported. For example, 180x50mm steering wheels are often used for industrial hand pallet trucks with 2-3 ton capacities, while 80x70mm load wheels are suitable for loads under 1 ton.

How to Choose the Right Wheels for Your Hand Pallet Truck

Choosing the right wheels for a hand pallet truck requires considering several factors such as the working environment, truck type, and specific requirements. Here is a detailed guide:

1. Identify the working environment: If the facility has flat floors and requires quiet operation, PU wheels are the ideal choice due to their floor protection and noise reduction. Conversely, in rough or wet environments, Nylon wheels will be more durable due to their corrosion resistance.
2. Check the load capacity: PU handles loads better than Nylon at the same dimensions.
3. Consider the type of pallet truck: Low-profile pallet trucks require smaller wheels (80x70mm), while high-lift pallet trucks require larger wheels (180x50mm).
4. Specific requirements: If cost-saving is necessary, Nylon is the more economical choice; if silence is a priority, PU is optimal.

How Much Do PU and Nylon Pallet Truck Wheels Cost?

The price of PU and Nylon wheels for hand pallet trucks is a major concern for many businesses. PU wheels are generally higher priced because the polyurethane material offers high durability, smooth operation, and floor protection. Meanwhile, Nylon wheels are more cost-effective, suitable for limited budgets while still ensuring durability in harsh environments.

Although specific price figures are not provided, Nylon wheels are typically about 20-30% cheaper than PU. The wear and tear of both types depend on the environment of use, but Naltako is committed to providing high-quality wheels with clear warranty policies. PU wheels can last 3-5 years under ideal conditions, while Nylon is more durable in rough environments.

Which is Better: PU or Nylon Hand Pallet Truck Wheels?

The question “Which is better: PU or Nylon hand pallet truck wheels?” has no absolute answer, as each type has its own advantages. PU wheels excel in smooth operation, floor protection, and load-bearing, suitable for indoor environments like retail warehouses or manufacturing plants. In contrast, Nylon wheels are more durable in harsh environments, highly corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective, ideal for cold storage or construction sites.

Are Nylon Wheels Suitable for Wet Environments?

Nylon wheels are the ideal choice for wet environments due to their outstanding corrosion resistance. Unlike PU wheels, which are easily damaged when exposed to water or chemicals, Nylon maintains its durability in harsh conditions such as cold storage, food processing plants, or areas with chemicals. According to research, Nylon material is resistant to corrosion from water and chemicals. Therefore, the wheels can operate stably for a long time.

For example, in the seafood processing industry, 180x50mm Nylon wheels are commonly used for hand pallet trucks due to their moisture resistance and wear resistance.

Pros and Cons of PU Wheels for Hand Pallet Trucks

PU wheels bring many benefits to hand pallet trucks, but there are also limitations to note. Advantages include:

• Smooth operation: PU reduces noise, ideal for facilities requiring quietness.
• Floor protection: Does not scratch epoxy, wood, or ceramic tile floors.
• Good load-bearing: A 180x50mm PU wheel can support a load up to 500kg.
• High durability: Lifespan of 3-5 years in flat environments.

Disadvantages of PU include:

• Higher cost: About 20-30% more expensive than Nylon.
• Less durable in harsh environments: Easily damaged in wet or chemical conditions.

Naltako provides high-quality PU wheels that meet all stringent requirements. Call now 0981.977.898 for support in choosing the right PU wheels for your hand pallet truck!