1 The Load Rating
Determine the appropriate load rating per caster by totaling the weight of equipment
plus load, divided by the number of casters installed. Larger diameter wheels
generally support heavier loads but configuring with a greater number of smaller
casters in a design is another option for safe and supported material handling.
Example: 500 lbs anticipated load + 80 lbs wooden cart / 4 swivel casters
= 145 lbs minimum capacity per caster
2 The Caster Type
• Swivel Casters: Swivel 360 degrees
which allows for easy movement of
the load in any direction.
• Rigid Casters: Do not swivel. They
support the load and are mounted in
parallel for linear movement.
• Swivel Casters with Brake: Swivel
360 degrees with a convenient locking
feature to keep loads in-place when
needed.
3 The Wheel Material
• Make sure the wheel selected is large enough to
pass over cracks in the floor and other obstructions.
• If the casters are to be used on a very rough
surface, a larger wheel size is recommended.
• Rubber wheels cushion the load while offering noise
reduction and consistent floor protection.
• Hard rubber, TPU, TPR, mold-on and cast iron
wheels are more resistant to harsh conditions with
potential chemical or oil contact.
4 Caster Combinations
How many swivel and rigid casters are needed?
Various effective caster combinations can be used in the building,
repairing and refurbishing of mobile equipment, such as trucks, benches,
tables, etc. Several mounting patterns are illustrated below.
