A single flange track roller is a crucial component of the crawler undercarriage system, widely used in construction machinery such as crawler excavators, bulldozers, and other heavy vehicles operating in challenging terrain conditions. This roller plays a key role in ensuring the smooth movement of the machine and the even distribution of its weight on the tracks, which contributes to reducing component wear and minimizing the impact on the ground.
SINGLE FLANGE TRACK ROLLER - DIMENSIONS
Internal width between the roller flanges 171 mm
TRACK ROLLER CATERPILLAR - FUNCTION AND CONSTRUCTION
The single flange track roller, unlike the double flange version, has only one flange, which serves to guide the track along a designated path. The flange located on one side of the roller interacts with the inner side of the track links, keeping it on the correct track. The absence of a second flange means that the track roller is typically used in machines with lower loads or in working conditions where there are smaller lateral forces.
Key elements of the single flange roller construction:
- Roller body – Made of high wear-resistant steel. Its purpose is to transfer the machine's mass and working forces.
- Flange (projection) – One flange located on one side of the roller, which keeps the track on the correct path. It prevents the track from slipping off the roller.
- Bearing – The interior of the roller contains bearings that allow for smooth rotation of the roller under load. The bearings are lubricated and often sealed, minimizing maintenance needs.
- Seals – The rollers are equipped with special seals that prevent dirt, water, and contaminants from entering, which extends the component's lifespan.
- Single flange rollers are mainly used in medium and smaller crawler machines that do not experience such high lateral forces as, for example, bulldozers working on steep slopes. Examples of such applications include:
- Crawler excavators – Especially those operating in moderate terrain conditions, where guiding the track is more important than counteracting lateral forces.
- Mini excavators and smaller bulldozers – In smaller machines, the weight distributed on the undercarriage system is not as great, making single flange rollers sufficiently durable.
- Machines for transporting aggregates or other crawler devices – These machines often operate in conditions where a lightweight undercarriage and lower lateral loads are required.
SINGLE FLANGE TRACK ROLLER - UF171E2E
The roller shell is made of deep-hardened steel and designed to be resistant to vibrations. Hardness 50 – 58 HRC. Shafts and bearings are designed to reduce friction and wear while ensuring maximum strength. Lubricated for the entire service life to minimize maintenance.
Modern single flange track rollers increasingly utilize advanced materials, such as high-strength alloys and modern protective coatings. Among the innovations, the following can be highlighted:
- Surface hardening – This process increases strength and wear resistance, which is particularly important in conditions of intensive use.
- Multi-layer seals – Modern sealing systems more effectively protect bearings from contaminants and moisture, resulting in longer component lifespan.
Single flange track rollers are a key element of many crawler machines, especially those operating in moderate terrain conditions. Due to their simpler construction and lower operating costs, they are often chosen for machines exposed to lower lateral loads. Nevertheless, the selection of appropriate rollers for a machine should consider specific working conditions, load levels, and terrain types to ensure maximum efficiency and durability of the undercarriage.
