As highlighted by The Fabricator in their article, “Reinventing the Caster Wheel,” changes in material handling have become essential for efficient operations. With companies reducing significant inventory, fabricators are now tasked with ensuring smooth part flow through the use of flexible material handling carts. This shift has placed renewed focus on the humble caster wheel, which plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth transportation across operations.
Experts like Dave Lippert, president of Hamilton Caster, emphasize that high-mix, low-volume operations need adaptable carts that can handle various load sizes. This flexibility ensures part flow remains uninterrupted, which is critical in today’s dynamic manufacturing environments. Similarly, Elmer Lee, head of engineering at Caster Concepts, stresses that factors like load, speed, and duty cycle determine how effective a cart will be.
One of the most significant considerations for caster wheel performance is wheel diameter. According to both Lippert and Lee, a larger wheel can navigate debris and uneven surfaces better, which makes it crucial for environments that aren’t perfectly flat. Wheels ranging from 6 to 12 inches in diameter can greatly affect ease of movement and the overall safety of the cart, particularly for heavier loads.
Recent innovations, like precision double-sealed ball bearings, have significantly improved caster ergonomics and maintenance. These bearings are sealed, require no lubrication, and offer smoother movement—making them a popular choice among modern manufacturers. As noted by Mark Lippert of Hamilton Caster, this shift has transformed the caster wheel industry, leading to better ergonomics and reduced maintenance needs.
Click here to learn more about Midwest Caster & Wheel’s capabilities or products.
Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of thefabricator.com.