Casters and Wheels

In addition to bringing mobility to bigger equipment, casters and wheels improve workplace efficiency by reducing physical strains and demands on employees when moving large loads. In fact, they are considered a critical part of any warehouse operation and can save companies time and money in many different applications.

What is a wheel?

A wheels and castors is a circular cylinder that spins around an axle. It is typically made from a compliant material that is designed to withstand the pressure of the weight of the object being moved.

The wheel is typically made of liquid cast polyurethane, with a rubber tread that has been mechanically locked to a durable hard rubber core. The wheel is molded to a specific diameter, which is sized to match the load.

Wheels and Castors: Maximizing Mobility and Efficiency in Your Workplace

Rigid casters are less commonly known as fixed casters, which feature a wheel mounted to a fork (or horn) that does not swivel. This style of caster is often more expensive than swivel casters but can be an option for applications where objects need to move forward and back in a straight line, without turning around a corner.

Casters and Wheels come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials to meet the needs of any application. It is important to understand the purpose of each type of caster and wheel to help make the best selection for your warehouse or workspace.

The type of material used for the caster wheel can also have an impact on performance. Wheels that are softer, or have a lower Shore A or Shore D hardness number, have lower starting and rolling resistance, and tend to be more quieter when rolling. But they do not always provide better floor protection or a smoother ride, so it is important to consider all aspects of your application and space when selecting a wheel.