Caster

File:Heavy-duty-trolley-castors-wheels-cator-wheel-exporter.png

Heavy-duty-trolley-castors-wheels-cator-wheel-exporter

Swivel caster

Löffelholz-Codex Ms-Berol-Germ-Qu-132 Fol 010v

Caster-wheels-chair

Subwoofer driver and enclosure

Caster refers to a wheel or a set of wheels mounted to a swivel frame used on various types of furniture, trolleys, and other objects to enable easier movement. Casters are commonly found on office chairs, shopping carts, hospital beds, and portable equipment, facilitating mobility and convenience. The design and functionality of casters have evolved over time, adapting to the needs of various industries and applications.

Types of Casters[edit | edit source]

There are several types of casters, each designed for specific applications and load capacities. The main categories include:

Swivel Casters: These allow for 360-degree rotation, enabling the attached equipment to move in any direction. Swivel casters are ideal for applications requiring versatile movement, such as in office chairs and service carts.

Rigid Casters: Also known as fixed casters, these do not offer a swivel action and are designed to move in a straight line. Rigid casters are typically used in combination with swivel casters to provide stability and directional movement.

Locking Casters: These casters come with a locking mechanism that can immobilize the wheel, preventing movement. Locking casters are essential for applications where stability is crucial, such as in surgical equipment and heavy machinery.

Industrial Casters: Designed for heavy-duty applications, industrial casters can support substantial weights and are built to withstand harsh environments. They are commonly used in manufacturing facilities and warehouses.

Materials[edit | edit source]

Casters are made from a variety of materials, each offering different characteristics in terms of durability, noise reduction, and floor protection. Common materials include:

Rubber: Offers good grip and floor protection, making it suitable for indoor use on hard surfaces.

Polyurethane: Provides a balance between hardness and elasticity, reducing noise and protecting floors while being durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use.

Metal: Typically made from steel or aluminum, metal casters are durable and suitable for heavy loads and industrial applications.

Plastic: A lightweight and economical option, plastic casters are suitable for light-duty applications.

Selection Criteria[edit | edit source]

Choosing the right caster involves considering several factors:

Load Capacity: The total weight the caster needs to support, including the weight of the object and its contents.

Environment: The conditions in which the caster will be used, such as exposure to chemicals, temperature extremes, or wet conditions.

Flooring: The type of flooring the caster will be used on, as some materials may damage certain floor types.

Mounting: The method of attaching the caster to the object, with common options being plate mount and stem mount.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Casters are used in a wide range of applications, from household furniture to industrial machinery. Some common uses include:

Furniture Casters: Used on sofas, beds, and office furniture for easy movement and flexibility.

Medical Casters: Designed for hospital beds, medical equipment, and carts, offering smooth movement and stability.

Industrial Casters: Used on heavy machinery, workbenches, and material handling equipment to facilitate movement in industrial settings.

Maintenance[edit | edit source]

Regular maintenance of casters is essential to ensure their longevity and functionality. This includes cleaning the wheels, checking for wear and damage, and lubricating the swivel bearings. Proper maintenance can prevent accidents and extend the life of the caster.

Caster Resources
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