The superior performance and durability of forged steel wheels makes them the perfect choice for grueling manufacturing, industrial, and material-handling applications. Virtually indestructible in their capacity range, they provide dependable transportation of the heaviest loads in elevated temperatures and extreme conditions. The process of hot forging increases the tensile strength of high carbon steel resulting in greater load capacity, impact resistance, and less flange breakage and tread wear than cast iron or steel. Using high heat and intense pressure, the metal can also be suitably crafted into a variety of designs.
As with any mechanical part, correctly matching your application requirements, manufacturing quality and regular maintenance are critical to maximizing service life. Read our tips on how to get more years of quality performance.
- Select the right wheel for your application: Load, speed, cycle, and environment are critical considerations when choosing the right wheel. The denser structure of forged steel accounts for its superior resistance to cracking or fracturing under heavy loads. At Rockett, Inc., the tread and flange of our 10”, 12″ and 350mm forgings are induction hardened to 425 Brinell for increased wear resistance under the heaviest of loads. Discuss your requirements with our experienced staff of engineers and sales personnel.
- Follow load recommendations: When calculating load, calculate the weight of the vehicle as well as that of the cargo. Check your requirements against the specifications of the wheel or assembly you are purchasing. While forgings are ideally suited for heavy weight applications, exceeding load capacity will result in material fatigue and failure. In addition to flattening and premature breakage, overloaded wheels can also damage the track and cause dangerous accidents.
- Never exceed speed limit: Friction plays a critical role in transportation. It can be either beneficial or detrimental. Exceeding the speed limit prescribed by your manufacturer increases friction and wear. This reduces life span as well as raises the risk of derailment, personal injury, and damage to goods.
- Check track alignment: Misaligned tracks and rail joints will impact the durability and compromise operational safety. Set track alignment to the specified spacing of the design and frequently monitor to make sure proper spacing is maintained throughout the system. This will help prevent wheel, cart, and load damage.
- Maintenance care: Regular maintenance is essential for safe and reliable operation. With proper handling and care, you can extend the years of service. Follow manufacturer guidelines for inspections, maintenance, and repair. Make it a point to inspect for scrapes, notches, and corrosion, especially in shock-loading applications. Pay special attention to radial cracking, wear of the flange, pitting, and spalling on the tread surface. Replace the wheel when you see deep cracks, severe pitting or notching.
Choose a Trusted Forged Steel Wheel Supplier
For over 40 years, Rockett, Inc., has served the brick and ceramic, tunneling, lumber, and electric power transmission and distribution industries. Our forgings are known for their strength, durability, and value. In addition to a wide range of high quality standard shapes, we offer customized solutions to suit your unique application requirements.
Get the best value and return on investment when you choose us for your outsourced custom manufacturing needs. All our forgings are made from 1045 grade steel and have a 10-year guarantee against flange wear & breakage.
Call us at 601-939-2471 or request a quote online from the leading supplier of forged steel wheels in Mississippi.