A single flange track roller is an important component in the crawler undercarriage system, used in construction machines such as crawler excavators, bulldozers, and other heavy equipment operating in challenging terrain. These rollers provide smooth movement and even weight distribution of the machine on the tracks, which helps minimize part wear and reduces the impact on the ground over which the machine moves.

SINGLE FLANGE TRACK ROLLER - DIMENSIONS

Internal width between the roller flanges 171 mm

CATERPILLAR TRACK ROLLER - FUNCTION AND CONSTRUCTION

The single flange track roller differs from its double flange counterpart in that it has only one flange, responsible for properly guiding the track. This single flange is located on one side of the roller and works with the inner surface of the track links, allowing them to maintain their proper position. The absence of a second flange means that the track roller is more commonly used in machines operating under lower loads or in conditions where lateral forces are limited.

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 protects the tracks 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 – 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 as 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 countering 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 - UF171E0E

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.

Single flange track rollers increasingly utilize modern materials today, such as high-strength metal alloys and innovative protective coatings. Key innovations include:

• Surface hardening – This technology significantly increases wear resistance and strength, particularly important when working in harsh conditions.
• Multi-layer seals – Advanced sealing systems offer better protection for bearings against dirt and moisture, extending the lifespan of the rollers.

Single flange track rollers are a key component of many machines moving on tracks, especially those working in moderate terrain conditions. Due to their simplified construction and lower operating costs, they are a popular choice for machines with lower lateral loads. However, it is important to remember that the selection of appropriate rollers must consider specific working conditions, load levels, and terrain types to ensure optimal efficiency and durability of the undercarriage system.