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.
