When it comes to moving equipment that weighs more than a person can lift, casters are an excellent option. Casters are designed to handle a large amount of load without breaking or wearing down quickly, and they also come in many different shapes and sizes.
How to choose a large caster
Before choosing a large caster for your heavy-duty equipment, consider the environment in which it will be used. For example, if it will be used in a chemical production facility, it may need to deal with harsh chemicals and corrosive compounds on a regular basis.
If it will be used in a warehouse, it may need to work with a variety of floors and rough surfaces. These factors will help you determine what caster and wheel type are best for your needs.
Going Big: Large Casters for Heavy-Duty Applications and Custom Projects
Surface requirements – The type of surface on which your caster will be rolling will impact the wheel material and tread you choose. For example, if you will be using your casters on a smooth concrete floor, you can choose from a range of urethane and nylon wheels.
Brakes – The brakes on your casters will hold the load while you move them. There are two types of brakes: face contact and foot actuated.
The face contact brake works by pushing a plate onto the running surface of the wheel, and it is typically recommended for heavier duty applications. The downside to this method is that it takes longer to operate than a foot actuated brake, and it requires more physical exertion for the operator.