Using Caster Wheels For Outdoor Tasks

Manufacturing, construction and other industries use caster wheels on equipment made for completing everyday tasks. Completing tasks outside comes with different demands than indoor activities. Whether you’re using rolling carts, dollies or other vehicles that have caster wheels, the type of wheel and caster will influence the smoothness of moving items.

Pneumatic casters work well for maneuvering through grass, pebbles, sand, gravel and other soft surfaces. These wheels are filled with pressurized air and are able to move quietly and transport fragile cargo safely. As you move from pavement to gravel, these wheels absorb shocks, protecting cargo. If these tires do get heavy use, make sure you maintain them by monitoring air pressure and checking for flats.

Another option, especially useful for heavier loads, is polyurethane wheels, which are made with a hard surface. These wheels work well on smooth surfaces and do not have tread that wears over time the way pneumatic caster do.  If you’re on a smooth surface outdoors, polyurethane wheels may be appropriate. But it you are looking for a versatile wheel that can handle multiple types of services, a pneumatic wheel may be a better option.

When you are indoors, the terrain is often predictable. For a smooth or soft surface, like carpet, hard tread wheels, like polyurethane wheels, can work well. For rough and uneven surfaces, like you typically encounter outdoors, soft tread wheels work best. Make the ride even smoother by choosing a wheel with a larger diameter to provide stability on those uneven surfaces.