Casters are essential tools that can be used for various tasks, but there are several different types to consider. There are kingpin-less casters, sprung casters, heavy-duty swivel casters, and shock-absorbing casters.

Kingpin-less Casters

Kingpin-less spring loaded casters are designed to provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional towing casters. They are perfect for a variety of material handling applications. However, they require consideration when choosing a suitable model for your application.

The kingpin swivel section is one of the oldest construction techniques. It is comprised of a top plate and a forged inner race. Both components are assembled and secured with a stem. Over time, this construction technique will break and cause the kingpin to shear.

The kingpin’s swivel section is more straightforward than the conventional model. This caster features super-thick steel and offers a variety of wheel choices. Moreover, the patented design includes a shock-absorbing feature.

One of the most important benefits of this caster is its maintenance-free design. This means you can avoid the hassle of greasing and lubricating the bearings. You can also rest assured that the bearings are sealed to minimize vibration.

Pneumatic vs. Flanged vs. V-Groove vs. V-Groove

There are many different types of industrial casters. Some are rigid, while others are flanged. These are all designed to reduce friction and force to roll. However, selecting one that is right for your application is essential when choosing a caster.

Heavy-duty V-groove casters are a good choice for many applications. They’re used on industrial machinery, hoist trolleys, and conveyer trucks. The wheels are made from premium cast iron and steel, which provides long wear. This means you can be sure they’ll handle even the heaviest loads.

Another type of caster is the pneumatic wheel. Pneumatic wheels offer high shock absorbency and cushioning. They’re also great for outdoor use. But they carry less weight than spring-loaded casters. For this reason, they’re ideal for applications with fragile cargo or damaged flooring.

Sprung Heavy-duty Swivel Casters

Spring-loaded heavy-duty swivel casters are ideal for moving products and equipment over uneven surfaces. Their benefits are numerous, including smoother movement and reduced noise. They are also great for fragile loads, such as computer monitors, sensitive instruments, and medical equipment.

Some spring-loaded casters have brakes and locks to ensure safe and secure mobility. These casters are available in various sizes and designs to meet your needs. Depending on your application, you can choose pneumatic, polyurethane, or steel springs. You can also opt for maintenance-free casters, a newer addition to the industry. All casters are designed to reduce push/pull forces, and using precision-sealed bearings eliminates the need for greasing.

Shock-absorbing Casters

Shock-absorbing casters are ideal for demanding material handling applications. They reduce the risk of damage to cargo during transit, provide a smooth ride and reduce vibration. In addition, shock-absorbing casters save hundreds in maintenance costs.

When choosing a caster, the weight capacity is first considered. If the load is too heavy for the caster, it could lead to excessive vibration and noise. Also, the weight of the caster can cause it to roll over obstructions.

Shock-absorbing casters are often used in the pharmaceutical, medical, and laboratory industries and for industrial applications such as manufacturing and food processing. Some industries also utilize shock-reducing casters to increase stability and reduce the vibration generated by heavy equipment.

Choosing the correct caster will ensure you get the most out of your investment. Consider your caster environment, as it can determine the type of shock-absorbing caster you choose.

Calculate the Working Height

A spring-loaded caster is designed to support heavy loads and provide increased protection. The best way to determine if your caster is up to the task is to determine the load it can handle. If it can’t, you might be in a sticky situation.

Many factors go into determining a caster’s performance. One of the most important is the weight of the device being carried. Adding extra weight can lead to several unexpected outcomes. For example, if the rack is too heavy, the caster might topple forward on the threshold of a doorway.

To determine the optimal weight for a caster, you’ll need to consider several factors. You’ll need to calculate the importance of the load, the wheel material, and the rack. Likewise, you’ll want to factor in the humidity, temperature, and corrosive chemicals that may be present in your environment.