Things to consider when purchasing casters

When purchasing casters, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you select the right ones for your equipment and intended purpose. Opting for cheaper alternatives may result in damage to your floors or premature wear and tear. Let’s explore some key points to keep in mind when choosing casters for your commercial equipment.

What Are Casters Used For?

A caster consists of a wheel and a mount that allows carts, racks, dollies, and other equipment to move effortlessly. Casters come in various materials, wheel diameters, tread widths, load capacities, and heights, making them suitable for different work environments. Whether you need noise reduction or specific mobility features, selecting the appropriate type is crucial for efficient operation.

Factors to Consider When Buying Casters

Firstly, determine the type of equipment you plan to attach the casters to. This will help you decide between light-duty, medium-duty, or heavy-duty casters based on the expected weight load. Additionally, consider the environment in which the casters will be used. Will noise reduction be a priority?

If your equipment moves primarily in one direction, such as heavy machinery for cleaning purposes, fixed casters might suffice. However, if you require more flexibility, swivel casters could be a better option. For straight-line movement, you may also need to decide if swivel locks are necessary. If you want the ability to control when the equipment rolls, opt for casters with brakes. These allow you to lock the equipment in place when needed and move it freely when desired.

The material of the wheels is another critical factor. Common materials include cast iron, rubber, nylon, aluminum, polyolefin, and polyurethane. Each material offers distinct advantages, so it's essential to choose based on your specific needs. For example, rubber wheels provide excellent shock absorption and quiet operation, while polyurethane wheels offer durability and resistance to chemicals.

Casters can be mounted in several ways. Some have stems that screw or snap into place, while others feature flat plates that can be bolted down. Vertical mounting using brackets is also an option. Stem-mounted casters are often required for many applications, but they may reduce the load capacity. To enhance stability and security, heavy-duty casters typically use plate mounts. Understanding your preferred mounting method can help narrow down the available options.

By considering these aspects, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what to look for when purchasing new storage and transportation accessories. Cook’s offers a wide selection of foodservice equipment for sale. If you have any questions or need assistance in selecting new equipment, Cook’s is here to help!