How do I choose the right castor?

Key factors: load per castor (total load ÷ number of castors + safety factor), floor type (hard floor = rubber or polyurethane wheel), environment (temperature, chemicals), and mobility requirements (swivel, fixed, brake or combination).

What is the difference between a swivel and fixed castor?

Fixed castors only roll in a straight line — used in pairs at the back of a trolley for directional stability. Swivel castors rotate 360° — they allow the trolley to turn. The most common configuration is 2 swivel front castors and 2 fixed rear castors.

What load capacity do castors have?

Castor load ratings range from 50kg per castor (light-duty furniture) to 2,000kg+ per castor for heavy industrial equipment. Always apply a safety factor of at least 25% to your calculated load per castor and consider impact loads from uneven floors.

What wheel material is best for hard floors?

Polyurethane (PU) wheels are the best choice for hard floors — they provide good load capacity, roll easily, are quiet and do not damage floor surfaces. Nylon wheels are harder and withstand higher temperatures but can mark soft floors.

What is a total-stop brake castor?

A total-stop brake castor brakes both the wheel rotation and the swivel action simultaneously with a single foot pedal. This fully immobilises the equipment. Required where equipment must remain completely stationary — medical equipment, work stations and ladders.