Single flange track rollers are key components of the crawler undercarriage system, commonly used in construction machinery such as crawler excavators, bulldozers, and other heavy equipment operating in challenging terrain. These rollers play a crucial role in ensuring smooth movement and even weight distribution of the machine on the tracks, which minimizes wear on components and the ground over which the machine travels.

SINGLE FLANGE TRACK ROLLER - DIMENSIONS

Internal width between the roller flanges 173 mm

CATERPILLAR TRACK ROLLER - FUNCTION AND CONSTRUCTION

Single flange track rollers, unlike their double flange counterparts, have only one flange that guides the track in the correct line of movement. This flange, located on one side of the roller, interacts with the inner surface of the track links, keeping them in the correct position on the working path. The absence of a second flange on the roller means that this component is typically used in machines with lower loads or in specific working conditions where lateral loads are reduced.

Key elements of the single flange roller construction:

• Roller body – Made of high wear-resistant steel. Its purpose is to transfer the mass of the machine and working forces.
• Flange – One flange placed 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, which minimizes maintenance needs.
• Seals – The rollers are equipped with special seals that prevent dirt, water, and contaminants from entering, extending 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 is not as high, 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 - UF173E1E

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 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 an essential element of many crawler machines, especially those operating in moderate terrain conditions. Their simpler construction and lower operating costs make them a popular choice for machines with lower lateral loads. However, the selection of appropriate rollers for a machine should always consider specific working conditions, load, and terrain type to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the undercarriage.