Casters can be attached to just about anything to make it mobile. Because there are many applications where a caster can be used, it is not uncommon to run into a problem when mounting casters to an object. However, there are various ways casters can be mounted that many people may not be familiar with, but choosing the right mounting method to suit your needs is rather simple. Below are a few common methods the caster industry has come up with to solve the challenges that may arise when mounting a caster.
Grip Ring Stem
Grip ring stem casters are designed to be mounted into a hole that is slightly larger than the stem. The stem is non-threaded with a metal ring that goes around the stem. When the stem is inserted into a hole, the grip ring puts tension on the inside of the hole and prevents the stem from sliding back out. Grip ring stems are commonly used on wire shelving, but these types of stems come in different sizes and can be mounted into different size holes.
Threaded Stem
Threaded stem casters are a great way to mount casters. Just as the name implies, these stems are threaded and come in different lengths and diameters. They are often threaded into a hole that matches the same type of threads and the same diameter. These can be used in conjunction with a pipe plug that is inserted into a pipe, and then a threaded stem caster is threaded into the pipe plug. This is also a common way for mounting casters on wire shelving. However, threaded stems cans also be used if the hole that the stem is going into is not threaded and if the stem is long enough to fasten a nut to the other side.
Mounting Plate
Mounting plates usually have four mounting holes for screws or bolts, and are available in different plate sizes. These are ideal for mounting to a flat surface that may have preexisting holes that match with the holes on the plate or when new holes will be drilled to match those on the plate. This type of mounting system is usually found on carts. Another common way to mount a plated caster is to weld it. Depending on the application, sometimes drilling holes is not an option and welding the caster would make more sense. However, when a caster is welded on it is more difficult to change it out than if the caster is bolted on.
Expandable Adapter
Expandable adapter casters have a long threaded stem with metal washer, plastic support piece, a rubber expander and a circular nut. This type of mounting system is used when a caster is being mounted to a circular tube. The expandable adapter is inserted into the tube and turned clockwise. What this does is allows the circular nut to grab onto the inside walls of the tube and as that nut tightens down on the rubber piece it compresses it and causes it to expand out. This makes the caster sit tight inside of the tube. Expandable adapters come in many different sizes in order to fit many different sized tubes.
Bolt-On Stem Casters
Bolt-on stem casters have a non-threaded stem with one or more holes going through the stem. These are inserted into a tube that also has a hole that matches up with the hole in the stem. If a hole is not present on the tube, a hole can be drilled to match the stem hole. Once the stem is inserted into the tube, a bolt is inserted through the two holes and fastened down. This is a very sturdy mounting method that is common for scaffolding casters.
If you have any questions about mounting options or any questions about casters, call us at 866-734-8848.
