A Smooth Ride: How To Keep Your Castors In Top Shape

 Castors and wheels may seem indestructible when moving heavy equipment on your premises, but they do need regular care and maintenance to deliver reliable, long-lasting performance. By establishing proper care and maintenance routines, you can keep your castors rolling smoothly for years and minimise the cost and disruption of premature replacements.

In this article, we’ll outline the main steps you should take to keep your castor wheels in excellent condition.

Match Castors With The Correct Weight Loads

Firstly, make sure you have selected the right castor for the job based on weight loads. When calculating the total weight of the application, remember to include not just the load itself but the trolley or cart, as these will also impact the performance of the castors. Heavier loads require castors designed with higher weight capacities, larger wheel diameters, ball-bearing swivel mechanisms, and sturdier wheels. By checking the specifications of your castors, you can match them to expected loads so that wheels turn more easily when supporting heavier weights without failing over time.

Choose The Right Castors For The Floor Surface

The surfaces your loads will travel over should also influence your choice of castor. For rough floors, large castor wheels can more easily withstand small bumps and pits without enduring damage; however, the turning radius may be wider than smaller castors. Consider the manoeuvres and clearances required to determine the most suitable wheel size. Softer tread castor materials, such as polyurethane or rubber, roll more quietly and smoothly than hard plastic or metal.

Carry Out Routine Preventive Maintenance

No matter what castor type you use, consistency in maintenance is essential for optimum performance:

• Lubricate moving joints every six months to prevent corrosion and wheels from jamming or sticking.
• If the floor surfaces are often damp, the lubrication may wash away more quickly, so more frequent application may be warranted.
• Fully submerged applications may benefit from monthly lubrication.
• Inspect connections and fittings regularly. Over time, vibration from rolling can loosen screws that were initially tight, causing wheels to work loose.
• Periodically check fittings and fasteners for breakage or looseness. Tighten any loose connections to prevent detachment or further damage.

Don’t Neglect To Keep Your Castor Wheels Clean

Finally, keep your castors free from the dirt and grime accumulating from regular contact with floor surfaces. Visually inspect them regularly and brush out any debris with a stiff brush. A degreaser should break up and remove oily deposits before washing the castor and its mounting with warm water.

Find Out More

If you believe your castor wheels need replacing, why not browse our range? If you have any questions, please call our helpful team at 01788 229400.