Overview

Molded Polyurethane Products for Fitness Applications

Fitness

ML6 Bearing Assemblies for Fitness Equipment Performance

Meridian Laboratory’s ML6 polyurethane bearings, idler wheels, and bumpers are utilized in fitness equipment like pilates reformers, elliptical machines, and playground monorail gliders. Our unique bonding process keeps the polyurethane firmly attached to the metal core, even after endless back-and-forth sliding and repeated use. ML6 parts are molded precisely to match the tracks they ride on and move smoothly for a quiet operation; no rattling, clunking, or uneven movement. They even withstand outdoor conditions including rain, snow, temperature fluctuations, and will last for the long term.

Application & Uses

Common Applications & Uses for Molded Polyurethane Products in Fitness

Exemplary Bond Strength & Quiet Operation

ML6 polyurethane covered bearings and idler wheels are used heavily on high end Pilates equipment.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane remains securely bonded to the coated bearings and idler wheels and doesn’t delaminate over time or continued use. It also operates very smoothly and quietly versus metal or plastic operating on the back-and-forth tracks.

Smooth & Quiet Performance in Harsh Environments

ML6 polyurethane covered cam followers and yoke rollers are used within playground glider rides (also called monorail, Flying Fox) to ride along the track inside.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane covered cam followers and yoke rollers endure the rain, snow, heat, and cold without delaminating. They provide smooth and quiet operation, whereas metal-on-metal versions often rust and fail over time.

Precise TIR & Custom Molded Profiles

ML6 overmolded bearings are used on elliptical machines in contact with the tracks which they ride on. Additionally, ML6 polyurethane bumpers are used to dampen vibration and noise on contact points.

The ML6 Advantage

ML6 polyurethane overmolded bearings have excellent total indicated runout (TIR), preventing uneven or jerky motion along the track. Molded directly to custom profiles without grinding, they extend longevity and ensure smooth and low-noise operation.

Capabilities

Engineering Capabilities & Services

Meridian Laboratory provides application-specific design support to ensure every ML6 polyurethane part meets the exact needs of the system it supports. Our team offers expert guidance during initial design phases and can cross-reference and reverse engineer OEM and competitor part numbers to offer direct replacements or improved alternatives for fit, function, and performance.

  • Application-specific design consultation
  • Competitor & OEM cross-referencing

We partner closely with customers to analyze part failures, understand field challenges, and develop improved solutions using ML6 polyurethane. Our ability to formulate custom polyurethane blends allows us to tailor material properties such as abrasion resistance, chemical compatibility, and flexibility to suit even the most demanding environments.

  • Part failure analysis
  • Custom polyurethane blends for specific applications

From one-off prototypes to high-volume production, Meridian Laboratory’s precision machining capabilities ensure ML6 polyurethane parts are manufactured to exact tolerances. With both CNC and manual equipment—including automated bar feeders and precision inspection tools that measure features as small as 0.000027”—we deliver exceptional consistency and repeatability, regardless of part complexity or volume.

  • CNC and manual machining equipment to support all volumes
  • Ability to machine 1-off prototypes
  • Automated bar feeders and parts catching for maximum output
  • Precision measurement equipment capable of measuring to 0.000027” (0.0006858mm)

Our in-house manufacturing process is supported by ERP-driven process control, giving full traceability and quality assurance. We offer both low and high-volume production runs, custom laser marking for part identification, and streamlined sourcing to keep lead times short and pricing competitive.

  • ERP inventory and manufacturing order tracking systems
  • Custom laser marking
  • High and low volume production

All molds and tooling for ML6 polyurethane components are designed, machined, and maintained in-house, ensuring tight control over part accuracy, consistency, and turnaround times. By storing and servicing molds on-site, we support both long-term repeat orders and fast iterations on new or evolving part designs.

  • In-house manufacturing of all molds and tooling
  • Storage and maintenance of molds

Meridian Laboratory specializes in prototyping ML6 molded polyurethane parts, enabling engineers to test fit, form, and function early in the development process. With no minimum order quantities, our process supports quick, cost-effective iterations without the delay or expense of full production tooling.

  • In-house tooling enables fast turnaround on prototype parts
  • Wide range of durometers available for real-world testing
  • Direct collaboration with engineers for optimized designs

Parts can undergo rigorous testing and can also include First Article Inspection (FAI) and Certificates of Conformance (CoC), to ensure compliance with application and performance standards. We also perform customer-specific validation tests and material compatibility reviews to confirm ML6 polyurethane meets or exceeds functional expectations in real-world conditions.

  • First Article Inspection (FAI)
  • Certificate of Conformance (CoC)
  • Material compatibility testing
  • Customer application-specific testing
  • Prototyping

Beyond manufacturing, Meridian Laboratory provides continued support through flexible delivery options, product stocking programs, and blanket PO agreements. Our team is committed to long-term partnerships, offering technical assistance, custom packaging, and proactive follow-ups to ensure consistent product performance and customer satisfaction.

  • Ongoing technical and sales support
  • Flexible delivery scheduling
  • Custom packaging & labeling
  • Product stocking agreements
  • Blanket purchase orders
  • Post delivery follow-ups

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Resources

Helpful Information

Browse our collection of slip ring resources to find detailed information on each model, including mounting instructions, applications, FAQs, whitepapers, and more.