Definition: Noise and vibration describe the sound and mechanical oscillations generated as casters roll, swivel, and impact floor irregularities.
Why it matters: Excessive noise and vibration reduce usability, increase fatigue, and accelerate wear.
Primary sources of noise and vibration
- Hard wheel materials transmitting impact energy
- Flat spotting from static loading
- Loose bearings or worn raceways
- Floor seams, debris, and surface texture
Reality: Noise complaints often indicate material or bearing mismatch, not product defects.
Wheel and bearing influence
| Component | Effect on noise and vibration |
|---|---|
| Rubber / TPR wheels | Quiet, high vibration damping |
| Polyurethane | Moderate noise, good damping |
| Nylon / metal | Loud, high vibration transmission |
| Precision bearings | Reduce chatter and rolling noise |
Design strategies to reduce noise
- Select softer tread materials where possible
- Use larger wheel diameters to reduce impact frequency
- Specify precision or sealed bearings
- Avoid flat spotting through proper load distribution
- Maintain smooth, clean floor surfaces
Rule: Noise reduction almost always conflicts with maximum load capacity.
Common engineering mistakes
- Using hard wheels in noise-sensitive environments
- Ignoring flat spotting in static applications
- Assuming bearings do not affect noise
- Overlooking floor condition effects
Rule: If noise matters, design for it explicitly.
FAQs
Are quiet casters lower capacity?
Often yes. Softer materials trade load capacity for noise reduction.
Can vibration damage equipment?
Yes. Prolonged vibration accelerates fastener loosening and wear.
Do larger wheels reduce noise?
Yes. They reduce impact frequency and amplitude.
Is noise a sign of failure?
Not always, but increasing noise often indicates wear.