What floors are phenolic wheel casters best for?

Phenolic wheel casters perform best on smooth, dry concrete floors where high capacity and low rolling resistance are required.

Are phenolic wheels recommended for wet or washdown areas?

No. Prolonged water exposure can cause phenolic wheels to swell and degrade over time. For wet or washdown use, select polyurethane or washdown-rated options.

When should I choose a larger wheel diameter?

Size up wheel diameter when carts cross expansion joints, thresholds, dock plates, or debris. Larger wheels reduce push force and improve roll-over under load.

Phenolic Plate Casters 4″ × 4-1/2″ (3-1/4″–8″)

Phenolic Wheel Casters — 4" × 4-1/2" Plate

HIGH LOAD • LOW ROLLING RESISTANCE • DRY FLOORS

Phenolic wheel casters are a proven industrial standard for high-load rolling on smooth concrete. This collection is filtered to the 4" × 4-1/2" mounting plate, commonly specified for carts, racks, and material handling equipment where capacity and durability matter.

Choose Wheel Diameter

3-1/4" Phenolic Wheel Casters Lower overall height • tight clearances 4" Phenolic Wheel Casters Common industrial size • balanced push force 5" Phenolic Wheel Casters Improved roll-over for joints and thresholds 6" Phenolic Wheel Casters Higher clearance • easier rolling under load 8" Phenolic Wheel Casters Maximum roll-over • heavy carts and racks

Standard Phenolic Performance Envelope

Phenolic wheel casters with 4 x 4-1/2 inch plate mount. High load capacity, low rolling resistance, and resistance to oils and mild chemicals for dry indoor floors.

Mounting Plate: 4" × 4-1/2"
Best Floors: Smooth concrete (dry indoor)
Strength: High load capacity with low rolling resistance
Resistance: Oil, grease, gasoline, and many mild chemicals
Wheel Material: Phenolic resin composite (compression molded)
Bearing Options: Roller, ball, or tapered roller (model dependent)

Important limitation: Phenolic wheels are best for dry environments. Prolonged water exposure can cause swelling and long-term degradation. For washdown/wet areas, choose polyurethane or stainless/washdown wheel options instead.

Engineering & Purchasing Guidance

Why engineers specify phenolic wheels

High capacity without the cost of metal wheels
Resists flat-spotting better than softer elastomers under static loads
Non-metallic wheel tread (lower floor wear than steel)
Performs best on smooth floors in dry indoor environments

When to size up wheel diameter

Choose a larger wheel when carts cross expansion joints, thresholds, dock plates, or debris. Larger diameter wheels reduce push force and help prevent stalls under heavy loads.

Common applications