Poly Cutting Edges in Snow and Surface-Sensitive Operations

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Polyurethane Edges in Loader Attachments
Poly cutting edges—typically made from high-density polyurethane or UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene)—have gained popularity in snow removal, landscaping, and municipal maintenance due to their surface protection, noise reduction, and wear characteristics. Unlike traditional steel or carbide edges, poly edges offer a non-metallic contact surface that minimizes damage to concrete, pavers, and decorative asphalt.
Originally developed for airport tarmac maintenance and sensitive urban zones, poly edges are now widely adopted in skid steer buckets, snow pushers, and plow blades. Their flexibility and abrasion resistance make them ideal for environments where surface preservation is critical.
Material Properties and Performance Behavior
Poly edges are engineered to balance wear resistance with impact absorption. Key characteristics include:

• Durometer rating
  Typically between 85A and 95A, indicating hardness and flexibility. Lower ratings offer more flex, higher ratings resist abrasion better.
  
• Temperature tolerance
  Most poly edges remain functional down to –40°C, though extreme cold may increase brittleness.
  
• Wear rate
  Poly edges wear faster than steel but distribute pressure more evenly, reducing gouging.
  
• Noise reduction
  Poly edges produce significantly less scraping noise, especially on textured surfaces.
  
• Surface conformity
  Their slight flex allows better contact with uneven terrain, improving snow clearing efficiency.
  

A city crew in Minnesota reported that switching to poly edges on their sidewalk plows reduced citizen complaints about surface scarring by 80% during the winter season.
Installation and Compatibility Considerations
Poly edges are typically bolted onto existing blade frames using countersunk holes or slotted mounts. Installation tips include:

• Ensure the mounting surface is flat and free of burrs
  
• Use stainless or zinc-coated hardware to prevent corrosion
  
• Torque bolts evenly to avoid warping the edge
  
• Leave a slight overhang to protect the steel moldboard
  

Some operators sandwich the poly edge between a steel backing plate and the blade to improve rigidity and extend lifespan.
Use Case Scenarios and Limitations
Poly edges excel in:

• Snow removal on decorative concrete, stamped asphalt, and pavers
  
• Parking garages and underground facilities
  
• Airport runways and helipads
  
• Sports stadiums and event venues
  
• Residential driveways and walkways
  

However, they are less suitable for:

• Heavy gravel grading
  
• Ice chopping or frozen mud
  
• High-speed plowing on rough terrain
  
• Excavation or demolition tasks
  

In high-impact environments, poly edges may deform or shear prematurely. Some manufacturers offer reinforced poly blends with embedded fibers or layered construction to improve durability.
Maintenance and Replacement Strategy
To maximize edge life:

• Inspect weekly for cracks, delamination, or uneven wear
  
• Rotate or flip the edge if wear is concentrated on one side
  
• Avoid dragging over sharp curbs or rebar
  
• Store indoors to prevent UV degradation
  

Replacement intervals vary by use but average 150–300 hours in snow applications. Some operators mark wear lines on the edge to track usage visually.
A Story from the Field
In 2022, a hospital maintenance team in Ontario switched to poly edges on their skid steer-mounted snow pushers. The previous steel edges had chipped several decorative concrete panels near the emergency entrance. After installing 1-inch thick UHMW edges, the team reported smoother operation, quieter passes, and zero surface damage through the season. They later standardized poly edges across all campus equipment.
Conclusion
Poly cutting edges offer a smart solution for surface-sensitive operations where traditional steel blades pose risks. Their quiet performance, reduced wear on infrastructure, and ease of replacement make them a valuable tool in modern maintenance fleets. When the edge is soft but the results are sharp, the job gets done with precision and respect for the ground beneath.