Casters wheel  is a non-powered wheel fitted to the bottom of an object or device that helps in bringing about mobility. Casters are used in materials handling, where they reduce the physical strain and demands on employees when moving heavy loads.

A casters wheel is made of different materials, such as glass filled nylon, forged steel, stainless steel, polyurethane, rubber, and other thermoplastics. The material chosen for a caster is based on its load-bearing requirements and the environment where it will be installed.

Types of Casters and Their Load Capacity

There are two main types of casters: rigid casters and swivel casters. Rigid casters are those that utilize straight-line travel, such as those found on the back of a shopping cart. These casters have fixed forks, so their orientation remains unchanged when mounted to the equipment.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Casters Wheel for Your Needs

Some casters feature a lock mechanism, which can prevent the shaft from swiveling and the wheel from turning. This is usually achieved using a lever that presses a brake cam against the wheel.

In addition, a more advanced type of caster, known as a total lock caster, has an additional rotational lock on the vertical shaft so that neither swiveling nor wheel turning can occur.

How to Choose the Right Caster for Your Workplace

Casters are available in various styles and sizes, so it is important to find one that best fits your needs. The diameter of the wheel, the tread width, and the hub length are all factors to consider when choosing a caster. The type of flooring surface and the conditions of use are also crucial to selecting a caster. Softer wheels, such as those that are made from rubber, are ideal for softer floors. Harder wheels, such as those that are made of elastomers or polyurethane, are good for smooth concrete plant floors.