Using casters can make transporting products, equipment and other items easier. There are many types of casters, with different materials and wheels. Selecting the right caster for your needs will ensure the safety and functionality of your equipment.
Can you replace caster wheels?
The first factor to consider when selecting a caster is the wheel material. Wheel material affects durability, noise levels and rolling resistance. Some wheel materials are better for certain environments, such as chemically or wet environments. Also, the level of maneuverability is also a factor.
Other factors to consider include the wheel’s diameter, the surface area of the wheel, and the wheel’s load capacity. Wheels with a larger diameter are easier to roll and reduce rolling resistance. Larger wheels also provide better stability and less chance of bogging down on carpets or mats.
Wheels with higher load capacities also have larger diameters and wheels that are made of harder materials. These wheels also have lower starting resistance, meaning less effort is needed to start the cart.
Another factor to consider is the caster’s mounting method. Some casters are mounted on a plate, while others use stems to secure the caster to the unit. Stem-mounted casters can reduce caster weight capacity, while a plate mount can disperse the load over a larger mounting area.
The mounting method also depends on the application. Stem-mounted casters are commonly used for light-duty applications, while plate mounts are more common for heavy-duty applications. Choosing a caster with the right mounting method will ensure that your cart is securely attached to your equipment.