Casters and Wheels Key Terms

Knowing casters and wheels key terms can help you find the right solution

There are thousands of models of casters and wheels, so there is one that is well-suited for every purpose. Some models are best for moving furniture in an office. Other models are strictly for industrial purposes. No matter what type of equipment or material you need to transport, or what type of floor or terrain you need to cross, there are casters and wheels to meet the need. When you choose the casters and wheels that are right for your task, the task immediately becomes easier.

Here are some terms that will help you find the solution that is best for your needs:

 

Load capacity

Load capacity is the recommended maximum amount of weight that a single caster or wheel can to bear without failing. A 25% "safety factor" is often included in printed materials that describe load capacity. Load capacity is determined by operating the unit on smooth floors at no more than three miles per hour.
Try: Learn more about the importance of load capacity at Durastar.

Pneumatic casters

Pneumatic casters are industrial casters with wheels that are filled with air. The air ensures shock absorption and quiet operation. Pneumatic casters are excellent choices when moving objects over rough terrain such as gravel.
Try: Northern Tool + Equipment offers an assortment of pneumatic casters.

Heavy duty casters

Super heavy loads require heavy duty casters. Special casters are designed to bear loads up to 20,000 pounds. Some models have double wheels to help spread the load over more floor space.
Try: Read more about heavy duty casters at Caster City.

Total lock casters

Total lock casters are specialty swivel casters that can function as a brake. They can lock the swivel and the wheel, which makes the unit completely stationary. Total lock casters are used for workbenches, and when moving sound and lighting equipment, lab or medical equipment and computer mainframes.
Try: You can see a total lock caster at MegaMedics.com.

Swivel radius

The swivel radius of a caster is the distance necessary for the caster to swivel 360 degrees. The radius is measured from the vertical centerline of the swivel section. A large swivel radius allows the caster to rotate easily.
Try: Learn more about swivel radius at Safe Home Products.

Face

Face is another name for the tread width of a wheel. It is the width of a wheel cross section, measured at the base of the tread. It is not measured at the point at which the wheel contacts the floor.
Try: You can locate the face on the wheel diagram at Hamilton Caster & Mfg.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---