Polyurethane wire guide rollers guide wire, cable and strip through drawing, stranding and coiling lines. Cast PU is used because it protects the wire surface, damps vibration and resists wear and cutting far better than metal or rubber. Rollers are cast on a multi-component PU elastomer casting machine (MDI or TDI systems) — we build the machine; you supply the PU system.
What You Need
- Multi-component PU elastomer casting machine — MDI/TDI capable, 2 or more components
- Roller moulds — per diameter, groove profile and width
- Metal cores + primer
- PU system — sourced by you
The Process
- Core prep — degrease, blast, prime. Bond quality decides whether the PU stays on the core under load.
- Conditioning — preheat mould, hold components at set temperature.
- Meter, mix, pour — precise ratio is critical for concentricity and consistent hardness.
- Gel, demould, post-cure.
- Grind the groove/profile to final tolerance and true running.
Key Parameters
- Ratio accuracy — drives hardness uniformity, which drives true running and wire surface quality
- Hardness — guide rollers are commonly Shore A 80–95 depending on wire and speed
- Concentricity — mould, core centring and post-machining decide runout
- Component count — 2/3-component systems allow colour or property adjustment in-line
- Post-cure — required for full mechanical properties
Which Machine
We supply the multi-component cast elastomer machine (MDI/TDI) for PU wire guide rollers. See the full PU elastomer casting machine range.
FAQ
MDI or TDI for wire guide rollers?
Both are used. TDI systems give high abrasion and tear resistance; MDI systems are easier to handle and often lower odour. Tell us your wire, speed and hardness target and we advise the configuration.
Why multi-component?
A 2/3-component machine lets you adjust hardness or colour in-line without changing the whole system, which suits shops running several roller specs.
Do you supply the PU material?
No — we build the machine. You run it with your own or sourced MDI/TDI system.
Tell us your roller size, hardness and output — we will propose the right casting machine and quote.