FAQ – Castors and Wheels

Castors & Wheels FAQ

Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we get about castors and wheels.

General Questions

Q1: What is the difference between a castor and a wheel?
A: A wheel is the circular component that rotates to allow movement. A castor is a complete assembly that includes the wheel and a mounting frame, allowing it to be attached to equipment or furniture.

Q2: What are the main types of castors?
A: The main types include:

• Swivel Castors: Rotate 360° for easy steering.

• Fixed (Rigid) Castors: Move only in a straight line.

• Braked Castors: Include a locking mechanism for safety.

• Directional Lock Castors: Lock the swivel to behave like a fixed castor when needed.

Q3: What materials are castor wheels made from?
A: Common materials include:

• Rubber (soft or hard)
• Polyurethane (PU)
• Nylon
• Cast iron
• Steel
• Phenolic resin
  Each material suits different environments and load capacities.

Selection & Sizing

Q4: How do I choose the right castor for my application?
A: Consider the following:

• Load capacity
• Floor surface
• Required mobility
• Environmental conditions (e.g., chemicals, moisture)
• Noise level
• Mounting type (plate, stem, bolt hole)

Q5: How do I calculate the required load capacity per castor?
A: Use this formula:
(Total Load ÷ Number of Castors) × Safety Factor (typically 1.2–1.4)
Always include a safety margin to account for uneven weight distribution. To simplify this we suggest dividing the total load by 1 less than the number of castors. In a typical application using 4 castors, this would be the total weight divided by 3.

Q6: What wheel diameter should I use?
A: Larger wheels roll more easily and handle uneven surfaces better. Choose larger diameters for:

• Heavier loads
• Rough floors
• Frequent movement

Performance & Maintenance

Q7: What type of castor is best for smooth indoor floors?
A: Soft rubber or polyurethane wheels are ideal, as they protect flooring and offer quiet operation.

Q8: Are there castors suitable for outdoor use or harsh environments?
A: Yes. Use stainless steel, powder-coated or zinc-plated frames with polyurethane, nylon, cast iron, or pneumatic wheels for outdoor or corrosive environments.

Q9: How do I maintain castors and wheels?
A: Regularly:

• Inspect for wear, cracks, or damage
• Clean debris from wheels and bearings
• Lubricate bearings if required
• Tighten any loose fasteners

Special Features & Customization

Q10: What is a brake castor?
A: A brake castor includes a mechanism to lock the wheel (and sometimes the swivel) to prevent movement when stationary.

Q11: Can I replace just the wheel without changing the entire castor?
A: Yes, if the castor frame is still in good condition and the replacement wheel matches the size and axle type.

Q12: Are custom castor solutions available?
A: We can often offer customisation for wheel size, material, mounting type, and brake options to suit unique applications.