FAQ's

There are a few different ways to attach castors to an object, and the specific method you choose will depend on the type of castor and the object you are attaching it to. Here are a few common methods for attaching castors:

Plate mounting

Many castors have a flat mounting plate that can be attached to the object using bolts or screws. To attach the castor, you will need to drill holes in the object and then attach the mounting plate using bolts or screws.

Threaded stem

Some castors have a threaded stem that can be screwed into a hole in the object. To attach the castor, you will need to drill a hole in the object and then screw the castor into the hole using a wrench or a screwdriver.

Bolt Hole

The alternative fitting method is a bolt hole. This type of castor is attached to an object using a bolt and a mounting hole. It consists of a wheel mounted on a swivelling base, with a bolt hole in the base that is used to attach the castor to the object.

For safety and stability, we do not recommend using glue or adhesive to mount a castor.

Several combinations of castors can be used on an apparatus, depending on the desired function and the environment in which it will be used. Here are a few common examples:

These castors can rotate 360 degrees, allowing the object to be easily turned in any direction. They are often used on office chairs and other furniture that needs to be easily manoeuvrable.

Examples of swivel castors:

These castors do not swivel, so the object can only be moved in a straight line. They are often used on carts and other objects that need to be pushed or pulled in a specific direction.

Examples of fixed castors:

These castors have a mechanism that allows them to be locked in place, so the object can be held stationary. They are often used on objects that need to be stationary for extended periods of time, such as hospital beds or laboratory equipment.

Some examples of braked castors:

A castor offset, also known as a caster offset, is the distance between the centreline of the castor and the point where it is mounted to the object it is attached to. The offset of the castor can be either positive or negative, depending on the angle at which it is mounted to the object.

A positive offset means that the centreline of the castor is positioned in front of the mounting point, while a negative offset means that it is positioned behind the mounting point. Positive offsets are often used to improve the stability of an object, while negative offsets are often used to improve the manoeuvrability of an object.

The offset of the castor can be an important factor to consider when selecting castors for a particular application. It can affect the stability, clearance, and manoeuvrability of the object, and it is important to choose an offset that is appropriate for the specific needs of the application.

Castors are often offset to allow them to be mounted at an angle to the object they are attached to. This can be useful in a number of situations, including:

Offset castors can help to improve the stability of an object by distributing the weight more evenly. This is especially useful for objects that are tall or top-heavy, as it helps to reduce the risk of them tipping over.

Offset castors can provide additional clearance for objects that are close to walls or other objects. This can be useful for furniture, for example, if you want to be able to push it closer to a wall without it rubbing against the wall or damaging it.

Offset casters can also make it easier to manoeuvre an object, as they allow you to steer the object by turning the casters in different directions. This can be especially useful for objects that are heavy or awkward to move.

In general, offset castors are useful for a variety of applications where it is important to improve the stability, clearance, or manoeuvrability of an object. They are often used on furniture, carts, and other equipment that needs to be moved easily and safely.

The swivel radius of a castor is the distance from the centre of the swivelling base of the castor to the outer edge of the wheel. The swivel radius is an important factor to consider when selecting a castor, as it determines how much the castor can pivot or turn.

A larger swivel radius means that the castor can pivot or turn more easily, which can be useful for manoeuvring the object it is attached to. A smaller swivel radius means that the castor has less ability to pivot or turn, which can be useful for increasing stability.

The swivel radius of a castor is typically measured in millimetres, and it can vary depending on the size and type of the castor. It is important to choose a castor with a swivel radius that is appropriate for the specific needs of the application.

Yes! The majority of our castors are compatible with other manufacturers.

Our castor series are some of the most versatile options in the trade with popular sizes and bespoke measurements available. On the occasions we are unable to offer an exact replacement for a castor you require, we’ll work with our trusted supplier groups to source the perfect match.

In short: Yes!

The castors and wheels industry is constantly making changes and improvements to the technology and materials available which means some old castors are no longer on sale, such as the GTSU and GTFU series, the TFH and TSH castors, or the 22 and 29 series from Flexello.

We aim to have a direct alternative for all products coming to their production end to help your business quickly and efficiently find the replacement and keep moving forward.

There are a number of different materials that can be used to make wheels, and the specific material that is used will depend on the specific requirements of the application. Some common types of wheel materials include:

Rubber wheels

A rubber wheel is a type of wheel that is made of rubber, a flexible and durable material. Rubber wheels are often used on casters, wheels, and other types of equipment that are subjected to heavy loads or wear and tear.

Rubber wheels are known for their durability and flexibility, and they are resistant to wear and tear. They also provide good traction, which makes them suitable for use on a variety of surfaces.

Rubber wheels are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including material handling, transportation, and manufacturing. They are often used on equipment that is subjected to heavy loads, such as carts, pallet jacks, and other types of material handling equipment.

In general, rubber wheels are a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize the durability and flexibility of the equipment. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to provide good traction and minimize damage to the surface that the equipment is rolling on.

Non-marking rubber wheels

A non-marking rubber wheel is a type of rubber wheel that is specifically designed to not leave any marks or scuff marks on the surface it is rolling on. Non-marking rubber wheels are often used on equipment that is used in settings where it is important to minimize damage to the surface, such as on sensitive flooring or in retail environments.

The main difference between a rubber wheel and a non-marking rubber wheel is that a non-marking rubber wheel has a special compound in the rubber that is designed to prevent marking. Non-marking rubber wheels may be slightly softer than regular rubber wheels, which can make them less durable in some applications.

In general, both rubber wheels and non-marking rubber wheels are good choices for applications where it is important to maximize the durability and flexibility of the equipment. 

Polyurethane wheels

A polyurethane wheel is a type of wheel that is made of polyurethane, a strong and durable synthetic material. Polyurethane wheels are often used on casters, wheels, and other types of equipment that are subjected to heavy loads or wear and tear.

Polyurethane wheels are known for their strength and durability, and they are resistant to wear and tear. They are also non-marking, so they won't leave any marks or scuff marks on the surface they are rolling on.

Polyurethane wheels are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications, such as material handling, transportation, and manufacturing. They are often used on equipment that is subjected to heavy loads, such as carts, pallet jacks, and other types of material handling equipment.

In general, polyurethane wheels are a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize the strength and durability of the equipment. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to minimize damage to the surface that the equipment is rolling on.

Cast iron wheels

A cast iron wheel is a type of wheel that is made of cast iron, a strong and durable metal. Cast iron wheels are often used on casters, wheels, and other types of equipment that are subjected to heavy loads or wear and tear.

Cast iron wheels are known for their strength and durability, and they are resistant to wear and tear. They are also non-marking, so they won't leave any marks or scuff marks on the surface they are rolling on.

Cast iron wheels are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications, such as material handling, transportation, and manufacturing. They are often used on equipment that is subjected to heavy loads, such as carts, pallet jacks, and other types of material handling equipment.

In general, cast iron wheels are a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize the strength and durability of the equipment. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to minimize damage to the surface that the equipment is rolling on.

Nylon wheels

A nylon wheel is a type of wheel that is made of nylon, a strong and durable synthetic material. Nylon wheels are often used on casters, wheels, and other types of equipment that are subjected to heavy loads or wear and tear.

Nylon wheels are known for their strength and durability, and they are resistant to wear and tear. They are also non-marking, so they won't leave any marks or scuff marks on the surface they are rolling on.

Nylon wheels are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications, such as material handling, transportation, and manufacturing. They are often used on equipment that is subjected to heavy loads, such as carts, pallet jacks, and other types of material handling equipment.

In general, nylon wheels are a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize the strength and durability of the equipment. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to minimize damage to the surface that the equipment is rolling on.

Polypropylene wheels

A polypropylene wheel is a type of wheel that is made of polypropylene, a lightweight and durable plastic material. Polypropylene wheels are often used on casters, wheels, and other equipment subjected to heavy loads or wear and tear.

Polypropylene wheels are known for their strength and durability and are resistant to wear and tear. They are also lightweight, which makes them easy to manoeuvre and handle.

Polypropylene wheels are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including material handling, transportation, and manufacturing. They are often used on equipment that is subjected to heavy loads, such as carts, pallet jacks, and other types of material handling equipment.

In general, polypropylene wheels are a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize the strength and durability of the equipment, while also keeping the weight of the equipment to a minimum. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to minimize damage to the surface that the equipment is rolling on.

A soft tread is a type of tyre or wheel that has a soft, rubberized surface. Soft treads are often used on castors, wheels, and other types of equipment that are designed to be used on delicate or sensitive surfaces.

Soft treads are made of a soft, pliable material that is less likely to cause damage to the surface it is rolling on. They are also less likely to leave marks or scuff marks, which can be important in certain applications.

Soft treads are often used on equipment that is used on floors, such as furniture, carts, and other types of movable objects. They can also be used on equipment that is used outdoors, such as wheelbarrows, lawnmowers, golf carts, and other types of vehicles.

In general, soft treads are a good choice for applications where it is important to minimize damage to the surface that the equipment is rolling on. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to reduce noise, as soft treads tend to be quieter than harder treads.

A hard tread is a type of tyre or wheel that has a hard, durable surface. Hard treads are often used on castors, wheels, and other types of equipment that are designed to be used on rough or abrasive surfaces.

Hard tread castor wheels

Hard treads are made of a hard, wear-resistant material that is able to withstand the abrasive forces of rough surfaces. They are typically more durable than soft treads, and they are less likely to wear out or become damaged over time.

Hard treads are often used on equipment that is used in industrial or construction settings, such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and other types of heavy machinery. They can also be used on equipment that is used outdoors, such as lawnmowers, golf carts, and other types of vehicles.

In general, hard treads are a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize the durability and wear resistance of the equipment. They are also a good choice for applications where it is important to maximize traction, as hard treads tend to provide a better grip on rough or uneven surfaces.

There are a few different types of wheel materials that can be used on carpets, including:

Soft rubber wheels

Soft rubber wheels are a good option for use on carpets because they have a soft, rubberized surface that is less likely to damage the carpet. They also provide good traction and are resistant to slipping.

Polyurethane wheels

Polyurethane is a synthetic material that is durable and resistant to wear and tear. Polyurethane wheels are also non-marking, so they won't leave any marks or scuff marks on your carpet.

Nylon wheels

Nylon is another strong and durable material that can be used for wheels. Nylon wheels are also non-marking, so they won't damage your carpet.

It's important to note that it's always a good idea to use furniture pads or coasters under your furniture to protect your carpet, regardless of the type of wheel you choose. This will help to distribute the weight of the furniture more evenly and reduce the risk of damage to your carpet.

There are a few different types of castors that can be used on hardwood floors, including:

Soft rubber castors

These are a good option for hardwood floors because they have a soft, rubberized surface that won't damage the floor. They also provide good traction and are resistant to slipping.

Polyurethane castors

These castors are made of a durable, synthetic material that is resistant to wear and tear. They are also non-marking, so they won't leave any marks or scuff marks on your hardwood floors.

Nylon castors

Nylon is another strong and durable material that can be used for castors. Nylon castors are also non-marking, so they won't damage your hardwood floors.

It's important to note that it's always a good idea to use furniture pads or coasters under your furniture to protect your hardwood floors, regardless of the type of castor you choose. This will help to distribute the weight of the furniture more evenly and reduce the risk of damage to your floors.

There are several different types of bearings used within castors, these are ball, roller, needle and tapered. There's also the option to use no bearing at all, this is called a plain bearing.

Why use bearings in castors?

Bearings are used in castors to help reduce friction and improve the rolling performance of the wheel.

The different types of bearings all play a key role in the performance of a castor, including the ability to move heavier loads. 

Ball Bearings in castor wheels

The ball bearing is the most commonly used type of bearing within castors and wheels, found in all ranges from light duty to our ultra heavy twin wheel series.

Ball bearings are made up of a series of small, spherical balls that are held between two metal rings - these balls are what give it the name 'ball bearing'. 

As a wheel moves, the balls rotate within the two rings giving a smooth and constant movement, these bearings are almost silent in motion so are perfect for equipment used within a public area such as offices, schools, or retail.

The ball bearing requires no lubrication and little to no maintenance, if used outside or against the elements, we would recommend using a stainless steel option to prolong the use of the wheel.

Roller Bearings in castor wheels

Another option is the roller bearing, used within castors that have regular movement with a high load capacity. Similar in design to ball bearings, the roller bearing uses cylindrical rollers instead of the balls sandwiched between the two metal rings. Roller bearings are also Needle Rollers or Needle Roller Bearings.

A roller bearing can be used for a wide range of load capacities, such as the medium duty Polypropylene castor range up to the heavy duty nylon castors in our DRHNY series.

Plain Bearings in castor wheels

A plain bearing is typically made of metal or a composite material, such as bronze or plastic. Plain bearings require maintenance in the form of lubrication such as oil or grease to guarantee long-term use.

These types of bearings are mainly found within light duty castors but are also suitable for low-level industrial castors such as our HGDNY series.

Plain bearings are also fantastic for use within marine environments as there are fewer components to rust from seawater or the elements. Another preferred option for plain bearings is hospitals and medical centres where hygiene is a priority.

Tapered bearings

A tapered bearing is used generally in bespoke or industrial strength wheels, such as our 10,000kg load capacity DWDUHPT series. 

A castor is the complete operational device of a metal bracket, wheel, bearings, bolt, and nut together.

Whereas a castor wheel is the individual wheel that compromises of an outer tyre, inner circular frame made of a hard material and bearings.

A castor can be designed to swivel on a base, allowing a complete 360° rotational movement, or it can be set to a fixed rigid path. The braking feature is generally an addition to a swivel castor, allowing the wheel to be locked in place. Other options for locks include the directional lock, which stops the bracket from moving but allows continuous rotation of the wheel.

Castors are used in a variety of environments, including warehouses, hospitals and food preparation, helping to make objects maneuverable. Castors are be found on a variety of apparatus such as furniture, trolleys, trucks, and roller cages. 

Available in a wide range of sizes, styles, and materials there is a castor for every type of job.

The term "castor" comes from the Middle English word "casten" which means "to throw", the term "wheel" refers to the circular object that is used for rolling or turning.

When placed together, 'casten wheel' means "to throw" or "to move/cast" one object from one location to another.

In modern English, this becomes the "castor wheel".

A 'castor' and 'caster' both have the same meaning and device, it is the spelling only which differs from one another. 

The subtle difference between the two is the 'e': castor is the English (UK) spelling and is used less frequently than its English (American) version: caster.