Casters and Wheels

Roll away with the right industrial casters for your business's applications
By W. Aiman Mueller Everyone is familiar with common casters and wheels, like those attached to the bottoms of chairs, trays and suitcases. However, the industrial sector also uses casters to move heavy equipment. Industrial wheels have to stand up to high temperatures, debris and various liquids like oil or even chemicals. They are also much sturdier than domestic wheels since they take such heavy loads.

The two main types of industrial casters are rigid-base, which roll in one direction, and swivel-base, which turn to roll in multiple directions. The base and even the wheel can be made from brass, chrome, steel and other materials. There are also rubber casters as well as resin. Specialty wheel types fit specific applications.

Here are a few of the products available from industrial caster suppliers:

1. Phenolic resin casters and wheels, for especially heavy loads

2. Pneumatic wheels, which absorb shock and/or vibration

3. Flanged track wheels, used in combination with a track

Shop from quality caster manufacturers

A caster does not cost much, but when a caster breaks it can translate to dropped loads, injuries or equipment damage. Find industrial wheel suppliers that only carry the best casters and rollers and display their load ratings clearly.
Try:  Caster City carries both domestic and industrial casters and wheels, even a caster than can withstand 10,000 pounds. Their stock includes many of the specialty types mentioned above, as well as locking casters, which keep things put between moves. Hamilton, on the other hand, supplies only heavy duty casters and wheels. They also produce custom equipment.

Install your industrial casters

You may or may not get hardware or installation instructions with your caster purchase. However, installing casters properly is important, because even a sturdy caster will fail if not attached adequately. Use hardware that's appropriate to the load and install enough casters to prevent damage and platform breaks. Also, locate the casters in the best positions, especially if you're using a combination of swivel casters and rigid casters.
Try:  Advance Caster and Wheel Company has some nice tips on caster arrangement. You'll also want to pay close attention to the load limits published by caster manufacturers or shown on the websites of industrial wheel suppliers. Grainger displays this kind of information very clearly.

Maintain and replace industrial wheels

Whether you have rubber casters or phenolic resin casters, wheels wear down over time and bases can bend or break. Another thing to watch out for is loose or bent connection hardware. Take a look at your casters from time to time. Remove debris from them and, if applicable, lubricate them. If you find damage, replace the caster promptly.
Try:  If you want to replace a wheel and reuse a base, take a look at the stock of R.W.M. Casters or Midwest Caster and Wheel, Inc..

• V-shaped wheels are another type of caster that can ride on a track besides flanged casters; they fit into a grooved track.