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Definition of a Caster |
Anatomy of a Caster |
Caster Options
Definition of a Caster
Size of a Caster
The size of a caster is classified by the nominal diameter of the wheel. For example, a 5-inch caster is any caster that uses a 5-inch diameter wheel.
Overall Height
The overall height of a caster is the distance from the top of the mounting plate (or the base of the stem) to the bottom of the wheel.
Swivel Offset
The swivel offset or swivel lead is the distance between the centerline of the kingpin and the centerline of the axle of a swivel caster. The larger the offset the easier swiveling, but the smaller offset offers greater strength.
Swivel Radius
The swivel radius is the distance between the centerline of the kingpin and the outer edge of the caster assembly wheel, or if the caster has a brake option the outer edge of the brake.
Capacity
The capacity of a caster is the maximum recommended load per caster or wheel based on normal operating conditions. Normal operating conditions are rolling on a semi-smooth floor, i.e. concrete, without any shock loading or adverse conditions. When choosing a caster by weight capacity you need to take into account the floor condition and the shock load.
Shock Load
Shock Load is defined as the impact caused by dropping a load on a cart or truck, or by rolling on a rough surface. When encountering shock loading, you will need to look at four things: construction of the caster, type of kingpin, swivel bearing, and the composition of the wheel.
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