Tips on Castor Wheels Maintenance

14 March 2016
 Categories: , Blog


In industrial and manufacturing plants, castor wheels play an important role especially in moving heavy objects from one point to another. The proper maintenance of castor wheels, therefore, ensures that they are operating optimally and prevents occurrence of accidents. Maintenance is even more important in the case of specialized castor wheels. Therefore, users are responsible for proper operation and maintenance of both ordinary and specialized castor wheels. Use the following tips to help you do this:

  • Periodical Examination: Primarily, users must regularly check castor wheels for any visible tread wear. The presence of flat spots on the castor wheels indicates the accumulation of a foreign body such as a string. Therefore, the user should remove the axle bolt and nut to remove the foreign material as well as check the internal components for any further wear. Once this is done, the wheel should be re-assembled if the parts are not damaged. In case the problem of foreign materials in castor wheels persists, users can install thread guards that will act to delay the accumulation of foreign materials.
  • Lubrication: For specialized castors, wheel maintenance requires a little more work because they are required to move heavier weights over longer distances coupled with their ability to maneuver with ease. Lubrication of castor wheels on specialized castors is, therefore, critical to enhancing easy maneuverability. For normal castor wheels, lubrication is required every six months due to the relatively low weight placed on them. However, specialized castors require lubrication to be applied on a monthly basis since they are exposed to exceptionally demanding conditions.
  • Proper Loading: Since carts come in different sizes and purposes, it is crucial that users place correct loads on them so that castor wheels are not destroyed. If a load weighing 600 pounds is placed on a cart that is supposed to carry loads not exceeding 500 pounds, there is likelihood that the castor wheels will be damaged over a short period. Additionally, instead of dropping loads, users should place them in such a way that they do not shock the castor wheels. By doing this, they allow even distribution of weight on all castor wheels, thereby preventing shock loading.
  • Fasteners: Fasteners on castor wheels must be checked to make sure nothing is missing. The best way to do this is by turning the equipment on its side and looking for any cracks or breakages as well as loose bolts and nuts. Fasteners on specialized castors should be checked at least once a day to ensure that they are functioning optimally.

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