Whether you’re looking for a simple overview of locking casters or are interested in discovering more about the differences between kingpins, side brakes, and heavy-duty casters, this article will provide you with the information you need.
Heavy-duty vs. light-duty casters
Whether you are shopping for a new caster for your office furniture, a moving dolly for your warehouse, or a heavy-duty cart for your construction site, there are several factors to consider. First, you’ll want to find a caster with a load-capacity rating at least a couple of inches more significant than the load you plan to transport and a swivel that will be easy to maneuver.
In addition, you’ll want to look for a caster that has a design that prevents debris from clogging the raceway. Again, it is essential if you’re moving heavy equipment.
Rigid casters are fixed and move in one direction. They are paired with wheels that are three inches wide or wider. Light-duty casters are designed for loads between 75 and 145 pounds. They are easy to install, offer great value, and come in over 30 wheel and material options.
Side brakes vs. kingpins
Choosing between side brakes and kingpins on locking casters depends on several factors. The choice is primarily determined by the applications you use the caster for. Additionally, it would be best to learn the caster’s safety factor and maximum weight load rating. Finally, casters are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles.
The most common type of caster brake is the Side Locking Brake. This brake engages with the caster’s wheel hub and compresses the yoke, which stops the caster from rolling. It is also quite simple to operate. This type of brake is available on casters ranging from 4″ to 5″.
Another common type of caster brake is the T-Handle Foot-Activated Contact Brake. This type of brake is very inexpensive. The most common application for this type of brake is low-profile applications.
Fixed vs. swivel casters
Whether moving equipment or materials, you can choose between fixed vs. swivel casters to suit your needs. Your decision between the two will be influenced by the type of area you need to move in, the load you need to move, and how you plan to utilize your casters.
Fixed casters, also known as rigid casters, are generally used with swivel casters to provide directional stability. These casters are often mounted on vertical panels and are strong enough to support heavier loads. They can be bolted, riveted, or welded to your equipment. They can also be one-piece, with the wheel mounted in a fixed frame. They are also easier to steer than swivel casters.
Swivel casters allow you to move your load in any direction because the wheel rotates around a kingpin, a rivet, or a bolt. It will enable the wheel to roll forward and back and respond quickly to changes in direction.
Lubrication of caster wheels and fittings
Performing regular lubrication of locking caster wheels and fittings is essential in maintaining the caster’s integrity. It helps ensure that the caster will continue to function correctly and last many years. It is also necessary to check the wheels for any signs of deterioration. If a wheel is damaged, it should be replaced as soon as possible. It will help to prevent more expensive repairs and ensure that the caster is functioning as it should.
Nylons, phenolics, and steel are a few materials used to make caster wheels. The application, the state of the floor, and the load all influence the material choice for the revolution. The design of the wheel also affects the material.
Various types of lubricants are available. A grease suitable for these environments should be used for highly corrosive, volatile, or temperature-sensitive casters. For food service environments, food-grade oil is recommended.
Inspecting casters regularly
Performing some light-duty maintenance on your locking casters is a must. It will ensure that your casters are working at their best and that you are not saddled with a bill for replacing them down the road. Casters are designed to provide years of trouble-free service.
As with any mechanical device, a regular maintenance schedule will keep you on the right track. The simplest method is to perform a monthly inspection of your casters. It is also essential to test the functions of your casters to ensure that they are working at their optimum.
Inspecting a caster is not a task to be taken lightly. First, you should review the caster and check the chassis for damage and the bearings for lubrication. The chassis should also be cleaned of any lubrication residue. It is a critical task for casters in wet or corrosive environments.
