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Casters
Choosing A Caster
When replacing casters, try to match the new set as closely as possible to the originals. Upgrading a set of casters to a heavier duty type is recommended if casters are prone to excessive wear.
When adding a set of casters, consider the weight and size of the equipment as well as the floor conditions. A heavy piece of equipment should have large wheels to hold the weight and provide easy rolling. Floors that are rough can cause rubber caster wheels to wear quickly. Floors that are exposed to grease, oil, or heavy detergents can also cause deterioration. In both cases, a caster with a polyurethane wheel will last longer than a caster that has a rubber wheel. More information on selecting casters is provided below.
Understanding Specifications
Institutional Grade
This is the highest grade of caster available for the foodservice industry.
Load Height
This is the distance a caster raises a piece of equipment off the floor or the overall height of the caster when mounted. It is important when replacing casters because the new casters may cause the equipment to sit higher or lower if the load height is different from the original set.
Load Capacity
This is the total weight a set of four casters can carry while the equipment is in motion.
Load capacity is "gross weight" and the weight of stored product must be considered.
Wheel Types
Black And Gray Rubber Wheels
These wheels are made with a TPR tread material which is bonded to a polyolefin black core. This construction offers superior performance, silent operation, and resistance to all common chemicals. The medium-duty wheels are supplied with Delrin bearings, and the standard-duty wheels have plain bearings.
Polyurethane Wheels
These wheels are made with gray, non-marking polyurethane tread material which is mechanically locked to a gray polyolefin core. This construction makes these wheels virtually indestructible and shock resistant to sudden impacts. In addition to rolling ease and quiet operation, these wheels are resistant to water, acids, oil, and common chemicals. The medium-duty wheels are supplied with precision ball bearings, and the standard-duty wheels have Delrin bearings.
Caster Types
Swivel Stem Casters
The stem of these casters fits inside of a leg. The stem is tightened to expand the rubber sleeve and “lock” the caster into the leg.
Casters for 1” tubing are generally used on free standing shelving and carts
Casters for 1-5/8” tubing are generally used on work tables and equipment stands
How to Measure Tubing and Pipe
1. Tubing has a thinner wall thickness than pipe
2. Tubing is measured from the outside diameter
3. Pipe is measured from the inside diameter
4. To determine pipe size, measure the male (threaded) end of pipe:
If O.D. is 1-3/8” and under, subtract 1/4”.
If O.D. is 1-3/8” and over, subtract 3/8”.
Plate Mount Casters
These casters are usually used on equipment. The mounting holes in the plate are commonly elongated for easier mounting and alignment.
Threaded Stem Casters
These casters are installed on equipment with a threaded hole, or where a caster can be secured with a nut. They are also ideal for replacing stud mount (threaded) legs on a piece of equipment.
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