There are several different mounting methods that can be used for casters, and one of the easiest for replaceable casters is the stem caster. These casters have a long stem that can be inserted into a hole in the leg of a table, chair, other furniture or even other objects where you need to attach casters. If you have the ability to insert a long enough hole into the area for your casters, then a stemmed caster can be a useful method of attachment.
When do You Need Threaded Stem Casters?
Threaded stem casters are affixed into a threaded insert, or by attaching a nut onto the backside of the threaded rod. If you have access to apply the nut, or have a threaded insert, then these casters are ideal since they will be able to lock in place by using a lock washer or lock nut when mounting the caster. One of the most common applications where threaded stem casters are used is pipe or tubing frames.
- Colson 2 Series: This basic caster design works extremely well for many different applications. Caster capacities are exceptionally high at up to 325 lbs. and can include optional top lock systems or total lock systems. Threaded Stem Mount options come in lengths of ¾”, 1”, 1 1/2” and 1 ¾” and thicknesses of ½”, 5/8” and ¾”. Wheel material options are Polyolefin, Performa Rubber, cast iron, Thermo and Polyurethane HI-TECH.
When are Grip Ring Stem Casters the Best Option?
Grip stem casters can also be used in a wide variety of applications. By drilling and affixing a grip stem insert into your chair or table leg, you can press the grip ring caster into place to be lightly held by the insert. These casters are best used where you are not commonly lifting the table or furniture so that you are only counting on the grip insert to hold the caster against the force of gravity.
This is most commonly done when you are installing a stem caster into a wooden leg where you do not have access to apply a lock nut onto the back of the threaded stem. Inserts can be made for wood applications, round tube sockets, square tube sockets, welded sockets, PVC sockets, metal tee nuts, plastic sockets, pipe thread sockets and even corner brackets that include a socket. Almost anywhere you would need to attach a socket is available.
- Rhombus 357h Heavy Equipment and Apparatus Caster: This solid, sturdy and robust caster is designed for use in applications like food dispensers, cooking equipment and other appliances. The caster can also include an optional directional brake, and has a large capacity of up to 130 Kg. The caster is available with many different mounting configurations that include press fit grip stem, threaded stem and top plate. This caster is designed to work with ease and has a sheet steel construction with zinc plating for exceptional appearance and excellent performance, which is provided by a durable double ball race swivel bearing.
What Other Mounting Methods are Available?
It is not always possible to use a stem caster to do the job, so there are several other caster attachment methods available. For instance, since the thickness of the stem needs to be considered for heavier applications a stem caster could be problematic. For these uses, it is best to consider something like a top plate mounted caster.
With a top plate mounted caster, the caster is made with a plate on the top so that the caster function is completely independent of the plate. The plate is then affixed to the underside of your furniture, cart or other application by four screws or bolts. Top plates are made in many different sizes for many different application uses, and dependent on the size of the caster and wheel.
- Extra Heavy Duty Casters: Hamilton Caster and Manufacturing has many caster designs for heavy-duty applications, and these casters are ideal where it is necessary that you ensure dependable operation. Some typical uses for these casters are industries like jet engine factories, shipbuilding and heavy equipment manufacturers. This is why Hamilton only makes these casters available with top plate mounting, because the stem on a stem caster would need to be too thick to be useful.
Expert Advice when Choosing the Right Stem Model Caster
The mounting of your caster is only one thing to consider when choosing a caster, and it is important to make sure you have thought of everything to find the right caster to suit your unique needs. Sometimes it is helpful to turn to an expert to make sure you have not missed anything important, and this is where the knowledgeable team at Douglas Equipment can help. We have been in the business of quality casters and material handling equipment for almost 60 years and in this time, our dedicated team has learned what it takes to find the right caster to meet the needs of our customers, all at a reasonable price.
If you are ready to find the right caster for your needs, and you are local to Miami, you can call us at 305-888-3700. From our location in South Florida we can easily service our customers throughout the entire United States, so national customers can call us toll-free at 1-800-451-0030. We can also quickly ship products to South America and the Caribbean as well. If you would prefer to contact us online we will have one of our expert service professionals get back to you as soon as possible. Call us now to get started on finding the best-suited casters for your unique needs.
