Conveyor Rollers
Precision machined conveyor rollers, idler rollers, and guide rollers for material handling systems
- Non-marring surfaces protect delicate products
- Self-lubricating materials eliminate maintenance
- Significant weight reduction versus steel rollers
- Reverse engineering from worn components
- Serving Chicago and nationwide since 1986
Overview
Custom plastic rollers for conveyor systems. Reduce noise, weight, and maintenance costs.
CDS Plastics manufactures precision rollers that outperform traditional metal alternatives in demanding applications. Through advanced CNC plastic machining, we deliver solutions that eliminate corrosion, reduce system noise significantly, and extend equipment life while meeting FDA and USDA requirements.
Why Choose CDS Plastics Rollers
Corrosion-Proof Performance in Wet Environments
Unlike metal rollers that rust and contaminate, our engineered plastics withstand continuous washdowns, chemical exposure, and outdoor conditions without degradation.
Noise Reduction That Improves Workplace Safety
Plastic rollers reduce conveyor noise compared to metal, helping facilities meet OSHA requirements while improving worker comfort and communication.
Precision CNC Machining for Perfect Fit
We hold ±0.005" tolerances on bearing bores and outer diameters, ensuring smooth rotation and eliminating vibration at any speed.
Materials Expertise Others Don't Offer
From static-dissipative compounds to metal-detectable plastics, we machine specialized materials that solve your toughest challenges.
Solutions for Common Conveyor Challenges
Solution: UHMW-PE and nylon rollers reduce noise levels, often eliminating PPE requirements while improving workplace communication.
Solution: Soft-touch materials like HDPE and UHMW-PE provide cushioned contact. Soft materials are available for delicate applications.
Solution: FDA-compliant plastics withstand daily sanitization, eliminating rust contamination and extending replacement intervals significantly..
Solution: Self-lubricating materials like UHMW-PE and oil-filled nylon eliminate grease points while reducing wear on bearings.
Solution: Static-dissipative and conductive compounds prevent charge accumulation in sensitive environments.
Technical Specifications & Capabilities
Machining Capabilities
- Diameter range: 0.250" to 10"
- Length: Industry Standard tube lengths available up to 120"
- Wall thickness: Thin Walls Available
- Bore tolerance: ±0.005" Standard
- Surface finish: 63 Ra standard, Better available
- Concentricity: 0.005" TIR standard
Roller Configurations
- Straight cylindrical rollers
- Crowned rollers for belt tracking
- Tapered rollers for curves
- Grooved rollers for round products
- Sprocketed rollers for positive drive
- Custom profiles for specific applications
Material Selection Guide
| Material | Key Properties | Temperature Range | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| UHMW-PE | Ultra-low friction (0.10-0.15), impact absorbing, quiet | -260°F to 180°F | General conveying, food processing, noise reduction |
| Nylon 6/6 | High load capacity (4,000 psi), wear resistant, machinable | -40°F to 250°F | Heavy loads, drive rollers, high-speed applications |
| Acetal (Delrin®) | Dimensional stability, low moisture absorption, FDA compliant | -40°F to 180°F | Precision applications, wet environments |
| HDPE | Chemical resistant, FDA compliant, economical | -60°F to 180°F | Corrosive environments, budget applications |
| PTFE | Lowest friction (0.04), non-stick, chemical proof | -100°F to 500°F | Sticky products, extreme chemicals, high temperature |
| Metal Detectable Acetal | X-ray and metal detectable, FDA compliant | -40°F to 180°F | Food processing, contamination prevention |
| Static-Dissipative Compounds | 10^6 to 10^9 ohm surface resistivity | Varies by base resin | Electronics handling, explosive environments |
Industries and Applications
Food & Beverage Processing
- Washdown conveyors, packaging lines, accumulation tables
- FDA and USDA compliant materials standard
- Metal-detectable options for HACCP programs
- Eliminate rust contamination in wet environments
Material Handling & Distribution
- Case conveyors, sortation systems, accumulation zones
- Reduce noise in fulfillment centers
- Light-weight for easier maintenance
- Impact-resistant for heavy packages
Chemical & Water Treatment
- Resist acids, bases, and sanitizers
- No corrosion in chlorinated environments
- NSF certified materials available
- Withstand outdoor UV exposure
Pharmaceutical & Laboratory
- Clean room compatible materials
- USP Class VI options available
- Static-dissipative for sensitive equipment
- No particle generation or contamination
Electronics Manufacturing
- ESD-safe materials prevent component damage
- Clean, lubrication-free operation
- Smooth surfaces prevent PCB scratching
- Precise positioning for pick-and-place
Packaging Equipment
- Non-marring contact for printed materials
- Quick-change designs for different products
- Wear-resistant for 24/7 operation
- Compatible with all major OEM systems
Ordering Process
Information Required for Quoting
- Roller dimensions (OD, ID, length)
- Load requirements (pounds per roller)
- Operating speed (feet per minute)
- Environmental conditions
- Quantity and delivery requirements
Bearing Options
- Plain bore: For shaft-mounted applications
- Precision bore: Match to your bearing OD
- Molded-in bearings: We install your bearings
- Integral bushings: Self-lubricating inserts
No Drawings? No Problem
Send us your worn rollers for reverse engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much quieter are plastic rollers compared to steel?
Plastic rollers typically reduce noise levels by 40-50% (8-12 dB reduction). This often brings facilities below the 85 dB OSHA action level, eliminating hearing protection requirements and improving worker communication.
Can plastic rollers handle the same loads as metal?
For many applications, yes. Nylon rollers handle loads up to 4,000 psi, suitable for most conveyor systems. For extreme loads, we can recommend hybrid solutions or reinforced designs. Most importantly, plastic rollers often outlast metal in corrosive environments.
What's the typical lifespan of plastic conveyor rollers?
In washdown environments, plastic rollers last 3-5 times longer than steel due to corrosion resistance. In dry applications, expect similar or better life than metal, with the added benefit of no lubrication requirements.
How do metal-detectable rollers work?
Metal detectable rollers contain ferrous additives that trigger metal detectors, while X-ray detectable versions use dense additives visible to X-ray equipment - these aren't interchangeable. Ultra detectable rollers work with both systems plus add blue coloring for visual detection. Choose based on your inspection equipment and prevent costly recalls.
