Rollers are a vital component with all under carriages for tracked machines. I mean, all components are important so I guess the first sentence is rather obvious. But while components like sprockets and idlers generally come in one type for your machine, rollers have a little more going on.
Your machine likely has at least two different types of rollers, specifically single or double flanged.
Owners can get confused on which ones they need, what the difference is, and whether or not they can interchange them.
Here's a look at the types of rollers you will find on tracked machines.
Outer Flanged (Single Flange) Rollers
Outer flanged rollers have no inner flange. Sometimes they are referred to as single flanged rollers. These are commonly used on excavators.
Inner Flanged Rollers
Inner flanged rollers have no outer flange. They are often top carrier rollers and, to add to the confusion, they too may be referred to as single flanged rollers.
Double Flanged Rollers
Double flanged rollers are sometimes referred to as inner flanged rollers. That's because the inner flange is parallel to the outer flange. These are usually found on bulldozers.
Triple Flanged Rollers
Triple flanged rollers are most often found on rubber tracked compact track loaders or CTL machines. They are called triple flanged rollers because of the center flange.
When it comes to installation, tracked machines usually stagger single and double flange along the rails. This helps keep the chains in line with the sprockets while providing tension levity.
It is not always necessary to have both single and double flanged rollers, but for the longevity of your under carriage and the performance of your tracked machine, it's best to have rollers installed as recommended.
