A wheel is just the rolling element. A caster is the wheel mounted in a yoke (rig) with a swivel or rigid bracket. If you're replacing a worn wheel on an existing caster, order the wheel only. If you're building or replacing a full caster assembly, order the complete caster.
Aluminum core — 12-15% less push force than iron at the same load due to reduced rotational mass. For ergonomic-critical applications (continuous push under 50 lb force), spec MAX Efficiency 85A polyurethane on aluminum hub.
Cast-in-place chemical bond — the polyurethane is poured liquid into a mold around the core and cures into a permanent bond. Properly bonded poly will not delaminate under normal industrial service. Albion XI-tread and Hamilton P-series are the gold standard.
For dock equipment with frequent direction changes, spec ball bearings rather than roller — ball bearings have lower starting force and reduce operator fatigue.
Custom durometer, hub material, plate spec, or non-standard size — engineering team turns RFQs same day.
Standard 1-year manufacturer warranty against defects. Premium tiers (Albion XI-tread, Hamilton Poly-Tech) carry extended warranty when paired with manufacturer's recommended caster rig.
Yes — UV-stable for years of outdoor exposure. The limit is freezing temperatures. Below 0°F, standard polyurethane stiffens and loses cushioning; spec low-temp formulation (Albion AX-series cold weather) for freezer or outdoor winter service.
Yes for moderate roughness. For severe rough or broken concrete with cracks/joints, step up to forged steel or pneumatic — polyurethane chunks can tear out on sharp aggregate edges over time.
Tread thickness below 1/4" (or below original chamfer line), visible cracking, flat-spotting, or rumbling/vibration during roll. Replace before tread reaches the bond line — running on bare core damages the floor and the bond is permanent.
Yes — submit RFQ. Albion and Hamilton both offer FDA-compliant urethane formulations for food processing, pharmaceutical, and clean-room applications.
