If you’re in the market for heavy-duty swivel casters, there are a few basic functions you should know. Those functions include dual swivel action, kingpin-less construction, and drop-forged steel construction. Keep reading to learn more about these different types of casters and what each one can do for your business.
Dual Swivel Action
Heavy-duty swivel casters are available with dual swivel action and are ideal for material handling applications. Dual swivel action reduces the forces required to push, turn, or shift objects and also minimizes the likelihood of injury. The two-way swivel action reduces the amount of force required to move objects and reduces operator fatigue.
The Swivel-EAZ(r) PROHD caster mobility system is an advanced dual swivel action design. This innovative product series is rated for 20,000 lbs. and has patented dual swivel action. The system also reduces the time needed for positioning heavy loads.
Drop-Forged Steel Construction
The Enhanced Precision Super Duty (EPSD) Series is designed with pneumatic rubber-tired wheels for higher capacities. The series is engineered for use in outdoor and aerospace applications. These heavy-duty casters feature integrally forged kingpins and precision-tapered thrust bearings. Besides the new technology, these casters are handsome. The casters are finished with Crimson Powder and metallic HAA polyester.
The drop-forged steel construction of heavy-duty swashplate casters ensures durability and long service life. The kingpin is made of SAE-1050 grade steel and features a slotted nut to adjust the bearing properly. The top plate and yoke base are made of high-quality steel, and the wheels are preheated billets. In addition, the 71 Series features precision raceways and a fully heat-treated construction to withstand heavy loads. It is also available with brakes and is zinc-plated to add a protective finish.
Kingpinless Casters
Kingpinless heavy-duty swiveling casters have no kingpin, resulting in longer service life and superior performance. They feature a forged steel body and precision machined raceway to ensure smooth performance. Three-inch wide wheels with hardened raceways reduce maintenance requirements and provide smooth, ergonomic swiveling action.
Kingpinless casters are available in many different designs. For example, the 40 Series heavy-duty caster is a hot forged steel kingpin-less caster that can support 2000 lbs. These casters are ideal for industrial, military, and fabrication applications. They are also available with brakes.
Brinelling
Heavy-duty swivel casters are known to suffer from a condition known as brinelling, a condition caused by excessive load force on the bearings. This condition results in an uneven distribution of forces and can eventually lead to bearing failure. There are many factors that can cause this condition. The most common cause is an overly large force applied to the casters over an extended period of time.
Heavy-duty swivel casters can be made of various materials. The majority of these are made of steel, which will ensure long-term wear and tear. Stainless steel is often used for these heavy-duty swivel casters. In addition, a hardened axle will help reduce the wear on the bearings.
Durometer
Heavy duty swivel caster comes in different durometers. Those made of polyurethane have a low rolling resistance, while those made of steel have a high rolling resistance. The high rolling resistance is caused by the lead between the swivel section and the vertical centerline of the wheel. Casters with zero lead or standard lead have less rolling resistance than those with extended leads. Extending the lead is necessary if you are using the casters for heavy-duty applications.
Heavy-duty swivel casters with higher durometers will be more durable. You’ll also get more life from them. This means less downtime and a higher level of productivity. There are two main types of heavy-duty casters: swivel casters and rigid casters. A swivel caster is designed to roll in all directions, while a rigid caster is fixed.
Applications
Heavy-duty swivel casters are often found on carts or platform trucks to assist with mobility. These casters allow workers to move items around more easily and maneuver them in tight spaces. Compared to rigid casters, heavy-duty swivel casters can turn 360 degrees.
Moreover, these casters are strong and durable, making them an ideal choice for heavy-duty stock trucks and warehouse trucks. Their versatility also makes them suitable for carts and dollies. They are available in the most popular 3D formats. For example, California Caster offers heavy-duty casters for utility platforms and furniture trucks. The company also provides these casters for industrial manufacturing and distribution centers.
