If you have narrowed your options down to castors with similar features, how do you make your final choice? Learn more below about how you can determine castor quality and make the right choice for your application.
When choosing between castors, always keep in mind your application and operating conditions.
Quality Considerations
Castors are more than just wheels; they are made up of a number of components, including the wheel, the frame and the bearing. When trying to determine the difference in quality between castors, some key questions include:
- What materials are the castor components made from?
- Does the castor have a bearing and, if so, which type?
- Does the castor come with a warranty?
- Does the castor meet industry standards?
- How much maintenance does it require?
Materials
Castor components can be made from a range of materials and material combinations. When determining the difference in quality between castors, one of the most important aspects to consider is material durability, particularly of the wheels.
Polyurethane and polyurethane combinations are considered a durable wheel material suitable for many applications. However, wheels can also be made from:
- rubber
- nylon
- glass-filled nylon
- aluminium
- cast iron.
Extreme temperatures, wet conditions and the use of corrosive agents will affect the castor’s durability, so this should be a major consideration when choosing castor materials.
Bearings
Bearings control the rolling motion of castors and can enhance the functionality of a castor wheel. Bearing types include plain or sleeve bearings, ball bearings and roller bearings. To determine bearing quality, you should consider the maintenance required, the bearing material and the operating environment. Plain bearings require regular oiling, while roller bearings are not chemical or water resistant.
Warranty
A warranty can indicate quality, as the manufacturer or seller has made a commitment to stand by the product. Some manufacturers offer one, three or five-year warranties on castor components. Before choosing a castor, be sure to check whether it comes with a warranty on key components, such as the wheel and the frame.
Industry standards
International standards give specifications for products, services and systems to ensure safety and quality. When trying to tell the difference between castor quality, check whether there is an international standard that applies and whether the castor you have chosen meets that standard.
Our friendly experts can help you determine the difference in quality between castors. Give them a call today and ensure you make the best choice for your application.
