HydroTech TPE vs. TPU Material Wheel
In this blog post, we will compare the HydroTech TPE material with a competitor’s TPU material. The aim was to evaluate their performance, durability, and suitability. The focus was on important factors like load capacity, water resistance, and dynamic test performance to understand how HydroTech compares to TPU wheels.
To ensure accurate results, the ANSI ICWM 2018 6.9.1 Dynamic Test standard for industrial casters moving at or under 2.5 mph (4 km/hr) was followed. The parts were also immersed in 190°F water for five days to test their water resistance. This helped to determine the load capacity for industrial casters and the maximum weight they can handle without issues.
During the test, a minimum running speed of 2.0 mph (3.2 km/h) was maintained, and obstacles were positioned in different orientations on the track. The specific test parameters like wheel diameter, run time, rest time, distance, obstacle height, and their number varied for each test item.
The HydroTech 6″x2″ wheels from Colson Group performed exceptionally well during the tests. They completed 5000 barriers and covered a distance of 4 miles (6.4 km) without any functional impairment. These wheels met the requirements of the ANSI ICWM 2018 6.9.1 Dynamic Test for Industrial Casters at or under 2.5 mph (4 km/hr) even after being immersed in 190°F water for 5 days. The wheels continued to be tested until failure, and the HydroTech wheels impressively ran between 20-36 miles with 29,692 – 54,379 total barriers in the dynamic test.
On the other hand, the competitor’s TPU wheel did not meet the requirements of the ANSI ICWM 2018 6.9.1 Dynamic Test for Industrial Casters at or under 2.5 mph (4 km/hr) after being immersed in 190°F water for 5 days. The tread of the competitor’s wheel failed at distances of 0.225 miles (0.362 km) and 0.34 miles (0.553 km).
In conclusion, the comprehensive comparative analysis clearly shows that the HydroTech TPE material developed by Colson Group outperforms the competitor’s TPU material. The HydroTech wheels demonstrated exceptional water resistance, strong load capacity, and sustained functionality under simulated operating conditions. Manufacturers and end-users can rely on the reliability, durability, and enhanced performance offered by the HydroTech TPE material for their industrial caster wheel applications. To learn more about HydroTech wheels and their testing, visit https://www.colsoncaster.com/hydrotech/.
