1. Choose wheel material: First, consider the size of the surface being used, obstacles, residues on the site (such as iron filings, grease), environmental conditions (such as high, normal, or low temperature), and the weight the wheels can bear to decide on the appropriate wheel material. For example, rubber wheels cannot resist acids, grease, or chemicals, while super polyurethane wheels, high molecular polyurethane wheels, nylon wheels, steel wheels, and high-temperature resistant wheels can adapt to different special environments.
2. Calculate load capacity: To determine the load capacity required for various caster wheels, you must know the weight of the transport equipment, maximum load, and the number of single wheels and casters used. The required load capacity for a single wheel or caster is calculated as follows: T = (E + Z) / (M × N); T = load capacity required for a single wheel or caster; E = weight of the transport equipment; Z = maximum load; M = number of single wheels and casters used; N = safety factor (approximately 1.3 - 1.5).
3. Decide wheel diameter: Generally, wheels with larger diameters are easier to push, have higher load capacity, and better protect the floor from damage. The choice of wheel diameter should first consider the weight being carried and the starting push force of the trolley under the load.
4. Choose wheel hardness: Wheels typically include nylon wheels, super polyurethane wheels, high-strength polyurethane wheels, high-strength synthetic rubber wheels, iron wheels, and pneumatic wheels. Super polyurethane and high-strength polyurethane wheels are suitable only for indoor wooden floors; high-strength synthetic rubber wheels are suitable for environments like hotels, medical facilities, floors, wood floors, and tiles where quiet movement is required; nylon and iron wheels are appropriate for uneven surfaces or surfaces with iron filings; pneumatic wheels are suitable for light loads and soft surfaces.
5. Rotation and axle alignment: Single-wheel rotation reduces effort; roller bearings can carry heavier loads and reduce rotational resistance. Installing high-quality (bearing steel) ball bearings on a single wheel allows it to bear heavier loads while rotating smoothly, flexibly, and quietly.
6. Temperature conditions: Extreme cold and high temperatures significantly affect casters. Polyurethane wheels work flexibly at temperatures as low as -20°C, while high-temperature resistant wheels rotate easily at temperatures up to 230°C.