Choosing Heavy Casters
Heavy Casters
Moving heavy equipment and machinery is a tough job that requires the right tools to do the job. The right casters can make the task much easier, making it safer and less stressful for employees.
Choosing the right heavy casters is important because it needs to be capable of holding up to the weight of the load. It also has to be able to move over rough surfaces and avoid damage from collisions with other items.
Different types of caster wheels suit different applications. These include nylon, urethane and steel.
Wheel material is one of the most important factors in selecting a heavy caster. Nylon, for instance, is a popular choice because it is inexpensive and offers good traction. However, it is not durable enough to handle heavy loads.
Bearing the Load: Understanding Heavy Casters and Their Applications
Other wheel materials are ductile steel, phenolic and solid nylon synthetics. These types of wheels are strong and can withstand a variety of situations, including harsh chemicals and heat.
Kingpinless casters are another good option for heavy-duty moving applications because they do not require a kingpin to stabilize the wheels. But some kingpinless casters have an open raceway that collects debris in the upper bearing, damaging the caster and requiring regular maintenance.
Heavy casters come in a range of sizes, brakes and wheel types to fit your specific requirements. Some are available with a locking mechanism that locks the wheels in place when the cart is stationary, and others come with brakes to prevent the caster from moving while the load is moving.