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Component Guide

Casters

Casters put equipment on wheels — chosen right, they roll easily, lock firmly and survive the floor and load they live on.

What are casters?

A caster is a wheel in a mounting fork (rig) bolted or stemmed to equipment. Swivel rigs steer, fixed rigs track straight, brakes lock wheel or swivel, and levelling casters combine wheels with adjustable feet so a machine can roll into place and then stand rigid. Ratings are per caster at the expected speed and floor.

Types of casters

Swivel & fixed casters

Combined on a chassis for steering and tracking.

Braked casters

Wheel and total-lock brakes for parked equipment.

Levelling casters

Roll to position, then screw down onto rigid feet.

Wheel materials

Nylon, urethane on iron, rubber — by floor, load and quietness.

How to select casters

  • Load per caster with a safety margin (uneven floors load 3 of 4).
  • Wheel diameter and material for the floor and obstacles.
  • Swivel/fixed/braked combination for handling.
  • Mounting: top plate or threaded stem, and overall height.

Not sure? Send what you have — a part number, drawing or photo — and our engineering team will confirm the selection.

Frequently asked questions

How do I calculate the caster load rating I need?
Divide the loaded equipment weight by three (not four — floors are uneven), and choose casters rated above that figure at your speed. Harder wheels roll easier; softer wheels protect floors and run quieter.

Related components

Need casters?

Tell us the specification, quantity and application — or just send the drawing.