There are certain products that can be useful in many different circumstances and places. A very small item that is used the world over is the caster. Casters can be used anywhere there is a need to have things be made mobile, which makes the possibilities endless. From offices, to medical environments, to science labs, to industrial zones and construction sites, there is hardly a workplace in today’s busy world that would not benefit from additional mobility.
A Small Item That is Found Everywhere
Traditionally casters are thought of as the small items that make office furniture mobile; however, they are in use in many ways that we often take for granted. Casters are found on all types of furniture, from business, to home to high-end applications. Casters are found on medical equipment in hospitals and veterinarian offices, on equipment at construction sites and even on dollies in automobile mechanics workplaces. They are utilized in the aeronautical industry and the food industry and more. They come in all different shapes, sizes and materials. And with today’s improved technology there are many different and increased workplace applications that have been made better and made possible.
Considerations
As with any item that is as useful in so many ways and places it is an item that may be ordered and shipped to various locations. This may include both domestic and international markets. In this case, knowing the item may be exported, it is very important to buy from a source that can be trusted and to research to find the best possible prices in the industry. It is also important to consider the location of the supplier, as any extra distance can cause additional costs to be accrued.
Domestic and International
Additionally, when considering exporting any item it is best to know what all the options are, so that items that are chosen are the correct ones. With the expenses that arise in exporting it is best to make the right choice the first time, and therefore having a full understanding of the product in order to relay the correct information is vital to any business. With casters, there are many different kinds available and there are a variety of options available to suit both domestic and international buyers.
Caster Basics
Casters are generally available in three different basic categories, light, medium and heavy. This designation refers to the individual caster’s weight bearing load capacity. And although it does not refer to the actual weight of the individual caster itself, it is plausible to assume that that certain heavier–duty casters do indeed weigh more. This is an especially important aspect to consider when shipping. Determining whether you need the light, medium or heavy option is only the first decision. There are then many other specific details to consider to aid in choosing what the best caster is for the job at hand.
Attachment Methods and Wheel Material
Other characteristics to consider include the attachment method, the wheel material shape and type, and the material of the actual caster housing. For example some of the possible options for methods of attachment include: top plate, top plate swivel, kingpinless top plate, threaded stem, stainless steel, expanding adapter stem, pipe thread stem, square stem, grip ring stem, and modular stem. Some of the different wheel options available include both lighter and heavier materials. Some of the lighter options include: performa flat tread, performa round tread, polyolefin, and polyurethane hi-tech. Some of the heavier options include: thermo, cast iron, forged steel, rubber hi-tech, phenolic and forged iron.
All of these different options are the standard options that are available in the basic sub-categories. So it is easy to see that with the many different possible combinations it is possible to create a near custom caster within the basic options that are available. Knowing this reinforces the need to have a more full understanding of the possible options. In addition to the already wide variety of standard options there are also specialty casters available.
Yet Another Option
If the job that needs to be accomplished and the work environment calls for an even more specific quality, there are casters that are designed for very specific purposes. For example, some of the specialty casters to choose from include: spring loaded door casters, glass cutting table casters, gravity lock ladder casters, concealed side mount casters, die-cast aluminum leveling casters, rug runner casters, high-capacity, and low overall height extrathane casters. Additionally, an even more specific option that can be added to some models is carbon steel ball transfers. They are made of a ball of steel or nylon and they can roll omni-directionally. This increases the movement options and as can be imagined, makes them very useful in many different types of workplaces.
Getting Guidance From a Trusted Source
Douglas Equipment, with almost sixty years of experience in the moving equipment business is a trusted South Florida business that understands the mechanics of business. We strive to help our customers find the best options, for whatever their needs are, from a single replacement caster, to bulk orders to satisfy larger orders. We understand that the variety of options, from all the different standard options to the specialty designs can be overwhelming. That is why it is our job to help clarify the options and help you to ask the right questions so that you can feel confident that you have chosen the right caster. We also understand the importance of working efficiently, and we know that more time can affect your cash flow as a business owner or manager. We take all these things in consideration each time we work with a customer.
Please contact us Toll-free at 1-800-451-0030, locally at 305-888-3700, or by faxing us at 305-883-9563. We can also be reached electronically through the Contact Us section on our website. We hope to work with you soon and help you to find the best caster for your needs.