Aerol

Aerol is a trusted engineering partner with over seven decades of experience in delivering reliable mobility and ground support solutions for mission-critical applications.

It designs application-specific high-performance casters, running gear and ground support equipment with end-users in mind. A deep understanding of complex operational needs allows it to support various clients, including Department of Defense (DoD) engineering depots, military prime contractors and commercial aerospace and space exploration leaders like United Launch Alliance and Blue Origin.

Aerol’s strength lies in its deep vertical integration, made possible by its parent organization, Caster Concepts, comprising ten U.S.-based business units specializing in unique capabilities. This tightly connected structure enables Aerol to leverage in-house expertise to reduce lead times and develop distinct, custom-built solutions that others can’t match.

“Our strength lies in being able to tailor our solutions like an à la carte menu—mixing proven components to meet precise requirements with speed and precision,” says Alex Harden, technical product manager.

For instance, its sister company, Conceptual Innovations, plays a key role in integrating Aerol’s solutions with advanced technologies like automated systems and automated guided vehicles. From fabrication and machining to in-house polyurethane processing, every stage of production is handled internally, ensuring complete control and accelerated turnaround.
Aerol’s ability to deliver reliable, high-performance equipment is powered by a streamlined process that begins with a strong focus on engineering and quality standards. Its in-house engineering team includes experts in mechanical, electrical and hydraulic design. As a certified AS9100D supplier, it follows rigorous processes and meets demanding military specifications.

This commitment to engineering excellence is best reflected in its collaboration with an engineering depot in Lakehurst, New Jersey, on a maintenance dolly for the CH-53K helicopter. Over nine months, Aerol worked closely with the depot’s design engineer to adapt its proprietary version of a conventional running gear system. Due to the tool’s strict height and load specifications, standard components alone weren’t sufficient. Aerol integrated custom-manufactured hubs with F-16 front landing gear tires, procured separately by the DoD. This hybrid design allowed the dolly to meet structural requirements during operations when the landing gear is removed from the helicopter.

Another long-standing example is its collaboration with Lockheed Martin on the U-2 spy plane program—dating back nearly 70 years. Aerol was originally tasked with developing a rear landing wheel that could endure extreme speeds and temperatures. Using an aluminum core combined with its proprietary in-house polyurethane processing, it engineered a wheel capable of withstanding landing speeds of 140 mph. The wheel also delivers optimal performance in wide-ranging conditions, from extreme tarmac temperatures exceeding 120°F to -40°F at 70,000 feet.

Behind every success is a highly experienced and technically diverse team. As a mechanical engineer, Harden brings a strong technical understanding to each project, enabling him to easily grasp clients’ specific needs. He also actively engages the aerospace and DoD sectors to promote Aerol’s capabilities and educate key individuals and engineering groups about the company’s value and sector-specific experience and how its solutions align with mission objectives. With expertise spanning mechanical, electrical and hydraulic engineering, as well as advanced automation and design analysis, the team brings depth and versatility to every project.

Backed by deep industry expertise, it continues to deliver mission-critical applications that meet client requirements. For those seeking high-performance, precision-engineered solutions, Aerol remains a trustworthy destination.