A practical starting point
Select industrial castors by the loaded equipment and its route, then narrow the choice by wheel construction, mounting, bearing and control function. A catalogue load is one input, not a complete approval. Use the actual model row and validate the assembled equipment under the intended floor, speed and environmental conditions.
Start with supported load, not wheel diameter
Include the equipment mass and its maximum payload. Determine how many castors can reliably share that load; do not assume equal loading at every corner. As an illustrative calculation, an 80 kg trolley carrying 520 kg has a total mass of 600 kg. If the design review uses three supporting castors, the preliminary load is 200 kg per castor before any application allowance. This is an example, not a recommended rating or a universal rule for every trolley. Offset loads, frame stiffness and movement can change the result.
Choose a wheel for the real floor
The route determines which trade-offs matter. A hard wheel and a resilient tread can behave very differently across a threshold. Note floor joints, debris, gradients and turning space. Compare loaded starting effort and rolling behaviour using the actual equipment; a material name or an unloaded hand test cannot settle those questions.
Measure the interface before ordering
Wheel diameter, overall height and mounting geometry are separate dimensions. For a plate fixing, measure outside plate size, hole centres, hole dimensions and available fastener space. For a replacement wheel, include bore, hub length, tread width and axle arrangement. Keep dimensions from the same product row together; do not combine the load of one model with the mounting of another.
Define operating limits in the enquiry
Specify hand-pushed or powered movement, speed, travel frequency, temperature and exposure to water or chemicals. For heat or washdown, ask about the complete wheel, bearing, lubricant, axle, bracket and brake. For an electrical requirement, specify the required resistance and how the equipment will be tested. Use a written requirement instead of assuming a product family covers every environment.
Compare the enquiry requirements
| Requirement | Information to send | Decision to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Complete castor | Plate or bolt-hole mounting, overall height, steering and brake function | Check the equipment frame and clearance |
| Replacement wheel | Diameter, width, hub length, bore and bearing | Check the existing fork and axle |
| Drive wheel or roller | Hub fixing, contact geometry, speed and applied forces | Send the equipment drawing and drive or guidance duty |
Follow the review sequence
- Document loaded mass, castor layout and the actual travel route.
- Shortlist the relevant product family and compare complete specification rows.
- Measure the mounting or axle interface and identify the required controls.
- Send model codes, quantity, destination and operating conditions for confirmation.
- Test an agreed sample on the actual equipment before approving repeat supply.
Practical checks
Pro tip: Photograph the existing fixing beside a dimensioned sketch. A close-up photograph without dimensions cannot establish fit.
Pro tip: Include the worst normal operating condition, such as the heaviest payload crossing the roughest joint, rather than only the easiest part of the route.
Compare product families, review industrial wheels or send your requirements.