Ergonomic Caster Factors

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By Doug Backinger VP of Sales

Posted on: August 30, 2016

Categories: Ergonomic Issues , Safety Casters and Wheels

There are several ergonomic caster factors to consider when choosing a caster to help reduce force exerted. Some make a slight difference, while others dramatically impact performance.

Ergonomic performance of a caster is generally focused on reducing the amount of force required to perform three functions:

1. Start rolling when the cart is at a complete stop (Initial Push Force)

• When all wheels are parallel (swivel and rigid caster wheels all face same direction)
• When the Swivel caster wheels are on a different angle than the rigid caster wheels

2. Continue rolling once movement has begun (Sustained Push Force)

3. Turn (Turning Push Force)

There are seven factors that impact ergonomic performance of a caster. These are:

1. Swivel Section Composition
2. Bearings Type
3. Wheel Diameter
4. Wheel Width
5. Tread Shape
6. Swivel Lead
7. Tread Material

When the goal is to reduce initial push force with all wheels parallel, focus on wheel bearings, tread shape, and wheel width. If the wheels are not parallel, then swivel section and swivel lead can impact the initial push force.

If the objective is to reduce sustained push force, the focus should be on the wheel diameter, tread material, and wheel bearings. For turning force, the swivel section type and bearings, swivel lead, wheel diameter, and tread shape are factors to consider.