Applications of Heavy Duty Polyurethane Drive Load Wheels for Water Rides

Heavy duty polyurethane drive load wheels are made of VULKOLLAN high elastomer and have the characteristics of high load-bearing capacity, tear resistance, good resilience, low resistance, high speed, etc. They are widely used in water amusement facilities.

Water rides in theme parks—such as log flumes, river rapids, and splash coasters—demand reliable and durable motion systems to ensure smooth operation and passenger safety. At the heart of these systems are drive and load wheels, which must endure constant exposure to moisture, heavy loads, and continuous motion. Heavy-duty polyurethane wheels have become a preferred solution for these applications due to their exceptional mechanical properties and environmental resilience.

Advantages of polyurethane wheels in water rides

• Excellent water and chemical resistance

Polyurethane is inherently resistant to water absorption, making it ideal for wet environments. Unlike rubber or some plastics, it does not swell, crack, or degrade with prolonged exposure to moisture or pool treatment chemicals such as chlorine.

• High load-bearing capacity

Water ride systems involve repetitive loading from boats or carriers. Polyurethane drive/load wheels can handle high dynamic loads without deforming, maintaining shape and performance even under continuous stress.

• Superior abrasion and impact resistance

In rides where wheels repeatedly engage with metal tracks or conveyor systems, polyurethane's outstanding wear resistance ensures long service life, reducing downtime and maintenance frequency.

• Non-marking and floor-friendly

Especially important in indoor or staged environments, polyurethane wheels don’t leave black streaks or damage coated flooring, helping keep ride areas cleaner and more presentable.

• Noise dampening properties

Polyurethane’s elasticity allows it to absorb vibration and reduce operational noise—an essential factor in enhancing guest experience and meeting noise control standards in theme parks.

• Customizable hardness and design

The material can be formulated with different hardness ratings (typically 80A–98A) to match the traction, grip, and load needs of specific ride systems.

Application equipment in water rides

Polyurethane drive and load wheels are widely used in several parts of water ride systems, including:

• Boat conveyors and lift hills

These drive wheels engage directly with the underside of boats to propel them up inclines or along flat tracks. Polyurethane's grip and wear resistance are critical for consistent traction.

• Turntables and transfer tracks

Heavy-duty load wheels made of polyurethane support and move boats between different sections or storage bays without damage to the ride vehicle or the flooring system.

• Brake and alignment zones

Polyurethane wheels are used in guiding or decelerating systems where controlled friction is necessary without damaging the boat’s hull.

• Maintenance and handling equipment

Carts or handling systems that transport boats during maintenance rely on polyurethane wheels for smooth, non-marking, and shock-absorbing mobility.

Heavy-duty polyurethane casting wheels or press-on tyres provide a dependable, low-maintenance solution for water ride systems, combining strength, durability, and water resistance in a single component. Their ability to perform reliably in wet and chemically aggressive environments makes them essential for modern amusement park operations.