Road Wheel
Rubber and metal road wheels are key components of the drive system in tracked vehicles used in defense and military applications; they provide uniform support for the vehicle’s weight and guide the track on the lower strand. The rubber component provides shock, vibration and noise damping, while the metal core absorbs high static and dynamic loads. Distinction: Idler rollers are specifically load-bearing suspension components, whereas “wheels” is a general term that can include other wheels in the track system and does not necessarily refer to components that primarily bear the load.
Area of application
Rubber and metal road wheels are used on tracked vehicles in the fields of security and defense technology along the lower hull, where they serve as rolling support elements that bear the vehicle’s weight. They are directly connected to the undercarriage frame and guide the track in the lower loop between the drive sprocket and the road wheel. In doing so, they absorb high static and dynamic loads caused by uneven terrain, acceleration and braking maneuvers. They are used, among other things, in combat, infantry, transport, engineer and recovery tanks during off-road, road and combat operations.
Technical details
Road wheels typically consist of a high-strength steel or cast body that serves as the load-bearing core and connects to the axle or undercarriage. The rubber tread is usually vulcanized onto the roller and specially formulated to ensure high resistance to abrasion, temperature and chemicals. The entire assembly is designed to withstand extreme static and dynamic loads and guarantees reliable track guidance, a long service life and operational reliability under combat and heavy-duty conditions.
Characteristics
Rubber-to-metal bonded road wheels are characterized by their primary load-bearing function and provide continuous support for the tracked vehicle as well as guiding the track on the lower strand. They offer high shock and vibration damping, reduce running noise, and are designed to withstand extreme continuous loads, off-road impacts and heavy vehicle weights. The rubber tread protects the track and undercarriage from excessive wear, while the metal core ensures maximum structural stability. Distinction: Unlike road wheels, track rollers are technically defined as load-bearing elements.