Caster Configurations for Your Carts

Are you looking to fine-tune the performance of your industrial carts? The key lies in selecting the right caster configuration. Let's explore various options and their benefits and drawbacks in this comprehensive guide:

Video Guide - How do casters impact starting push forces of cart and dollies? (youtube.com)

1. 4-Wheel Caster Steer: Two Rigid, Two Swivel

• Benefit: Easy turning and excellent tracking.
• Drawback: Limited movement; requires a pivot for a 90° turn.

2. 4-Wheel Diamond Pattern – 2 Swivels, 2 Rigids

• Benefit: High maneuverability, rotates at its own length.
• Drawback: More expensive; eliminates tilt but allows for heavier loads.

3. 4-Wheel Diamond Pattern – All Rigid

• Benefit: Cost-effective; pivots for 360° rotations.
• Drawback: Limited load capacity; cannot be pushed sideways.

4. 4-Wheel Non-Tilt All Swivels Casters

• Benefit: Moves in any direction without turning around.
• Drawback: Challenging to control in a straight line; solution: use swivel locks.
• Fix: Equip casters with swivel locks for straight-line movement.

5. 6-Wheel Tilt or Non-Tilt

• Benefit: Higher load capacity; suitable for long carts.
• Drawback: It's worth noting that more wheels means more resistance in moving.

6. Wagon Type: Two Rigid, Two Axle-Mounted Wheels

• Benefit: Ideal for heavy loads, often power-drawn.
• Drawback: Not easily maneuvered manually.

This should give you a basic idea of the different styles of cart, and what is best for you!