How to prevent caster wheel flat spotting on heavy weight applications.
Caster wheel flat spotting is a common problem for heavyweight applications, where the weight of the load causes the wheel to become flat and distorted. Soft rubber and polyurethane tires are the common wheel materials where this can happen.
This can lead to reduced wheel performance and even wheel failure, resulting in costly downtime and repair expenses. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of flat spotting and provide several preventative measures to avoid this problem.
One of the main causes of flat spotting is heavy loads. When a wheel is subjected to a heavy load, it can cause the wheel to deform and become flat, particularly if the load is not evenly distributed across the wheels. In addition, improper use of the wheels, such as excessive braking or sharp turns, can also cause flat spotting. Finally, poor wheel maintenance, such as not properly inflating the wheels, can also contribute to this problem.
Tips to prevent flat spotting.
To prevent flat spotting on heavyweight applications, it is important to take several preventative measures.
- First, it is crucial to distribute the load across the wheels properly. This will help to reduce the chance of one wheel handling a significant portion of the cart load, a problem anytime heavy loads are stationary for extended time periods.
- Second, avoid excessive braking or sharp turns, which can put additional strain on the wheels and cause flat spotting.
- Finally, regularly maintain the wheels to ensure they are in good condition and properly inflated.
RELATED: Three common causes of polyurethane wheel failure.
Choosing the right wheels is also an important consideration.
In addition to these preventative measures, it is also important to choose the right wheels for your specific application. This will help to ensure the wheels can handle the weight and conditions of your application without flat spotting. When choosing wheels, consider factors such as wheel material, wheel diameter, and wheel tread. For example, a larger-diameter wheel may be more capable of handling heavy loads without flat spotting than a smaller-diameter wheel.
95A Standard Poly Tread. Our general-purpose tread is non-marking with high tear strength and resistance to flat spotting.
In conclusion, flat spotting on caster wheels can be a major problem for heavyweight applications, leading to reduced wheel performance and even wheel failure. By properly distributing the load, avoiding excessive braking or sharp turns, and regularly maintaining the wheels, you can prevent flat spotting and ensure the long-term performance of your wheels. Additionally, choosing the right wheels for your application will help to avoid flat spotting and ensure your wheels can handle the weight and conditions of your application.
