Although they may seem inconsequential, casters play a crucial role throughout various industries; however, not all casters are alike. In fact, there are three different level strengths you need to take into consideration when choosing a variety for your project: light-, medium-, and heavy-duty. To better understand how these options differ, as well as why it's so important to choose the right one, consult the guide below. 

What Are the Differences Among Light-, Medium-, and Heavy-Duty Casters?

Simply put, the different strength levels refer to how much weight each caster can carry, as well as the types of applications for which it can be used. Light-duty casters can carry loads up to between 450 and 500 pounds. These are generally used for hotel and clothing racks, food carts, moving dollies, and lab equipment carts. 

Medium-duty casters can transport loads between 500 and 1500 pounds. While they may be used for some of the same purposes as light-duty, they're also able to take on heavier applications, like hospital beds, scaffolding, laundry carts, and waste disposal trucks. 

Heavy-duty casters are the strongest available and can carry up to 20,000 pounds. These types of casters are most often used in industrial settings fabricators and suppliers, as well as towing, automotive plant, and high-grade commercial sectors, like aerospace, military, and postal.

Why Is It Important to Choose the Right Caster? 

Choosing the correct caster is important to ensure the appliance in question doesn't buckle under the pressure of the load. But there's also maneuverability to consider.

 In most cases, the stronger the caster, the wider it is. This width makes it easier to manage and navigate the wheels; if the caster strength doesn't match the weight of the load, you'll have far more difficulty moving the appliance around.

Whether you're seeking light-, medium-, or heavy-duty casters, the team at Casters, Wheels and Industrial Handling in Halethorpe, MD, has you covered. Since 1959, this reputable business has offered a broad range of casters and wheels to commercial clients throughout the area. Call (631) 650-0500 or visit their website to learn more.