Handrail Friction Wheel

Overview

The handrail friction wheel is the rubber-faced wheel that grips the underside of the handrail and drives it at the same speed as the steps. It carries the full driving force, so its face condition determines whether the belt slips. One Elevator supplies replacement friction wheels, complete wheel assemblies and the pressure rollers that hold the belt against the wheel.

Applications

They are fitted on escalators and moving walks from OTIS, KONE, Schindler, Mitsubishi, ThyssenKrupp and Hyundai, in airports, metro stations, malls and hotels. A glazed or worn wheel is the most common cause of handrail slip, so the wheel is usually replaced with the drive chain. Slip is measured as a speed difference between the handrail and the steps, and it is a reportable safety deviation. On high-duty escalators the wheel is replaced on a fixed cycle, because waiting for visible slip means the handrail is already damaged.

Types and Range

• Friction wheels with moulded rubber or polyurethane faces
• Complete wheel assemblies with bearings and shaft
• Pressure rollers and idler rollers for the handrail return
• Wheels with keyed, taper-lock or plain bores
• Spare rubber faces and re-covering services
• Matched sets of drive wheel, pressure roller and chain

Face hardness is selected to balance grip against wear on the handrail.

Selection Guide

Confirm three dimensions: outer diameter, bore and width. Then check the face material — softer compounds grip better but wear faster, and a wheel that is too hard will slip and polish the handrail underside. Pressure roller setting is equally important, since too little pressure slips and too much flattens the belt. Every wheel is balanced and tested for run-out, hardness and bond strength.

Ordering and Lead Time

Most sizes ship within 7-10 days. Send the wheel diameter and bore, or the escalator model and serial number, and we will confirm fitment and quote within one business day.

Frequently asked questions

How do I order a friction wheel?

Give us the outer diameter, bore and width, and confirm the face material. Softer compounds grip better but wear faster.

Why does my handrail keep slipping?

Usually a glazed or worn friction wheel, or a pressure roller set too light. Check both before the handrail itself is blamed.

Do you supply just the rubber face?

Yes. Where the hub and bearings are sound, a spare face or a re-covering service is cheaper than a complete wheel.