Caster brakes are crucial for safety and efficiency in today’s fast-paced world of mobility solutions. From industrial machines to office chairs, these brakes help slow down or stop a cart to keep control and reduce strain. They also keep racks or carts from rolling unexpectedly to protect products and prevent injuries.
Recent research shows that thousands of accidents happen worldwide every day because of caster brake problems. This happens mainly due to three reasons: overloading, choosing the wrong type of brake or improper use. There are different types of caster wheel brakes for heavy-duty use, each brake having its own advantages.
Let us take a quick look at these options in this blog to help you choose the best one for your needs. By understanding how each type of caster wheel brake works and where it is best used, you can make better choices that ensure safety and enhance efficiency!
The Total Brake system is the top choice for caster wheel brakes as it provides exceptional safety and stability. When activated, it secures both the wheel’s movement and the swivel mechanism.
This way, these brakes make the caster completely still. It is especially important in places where stability is critical, like heavy industrial settings and hospitals. Total brakes are made from strong materials like galvanized steel, stainless steel or nylon to ensure they last a long time.
They also come with different trigger types, such as left and right brakes, up and down brakes and A/B brakes to suit various user needs and situations. Versatile design and reliable safety features make Total Brakes a preferred choice for applications that require maximum control and security.
The side brake is designed to be easy to use and look good. It is located on the side of the caster and can be engaged with your foot. This makes it great for situations where you want to keep your hands free, like with library carts or kitchen trolleys. One of its benefits is that the brake can rotate and hide away.
Not only does it make the caster look better but also helps prevent accidental tripping or activation. While it does not provide as strong a lock as the Total Brake, the Side Brake strikes a good balance between safety and convenience, especially when looks and ease of use matter.
A single side wheel brake is ideal for medium and heavy-duty casters with wheels that are six to twelve inches wide. These brakes are among the easiest to use in the caster industry.
The Central Locking System is an innovative improvement in caster technology that allows you to lock multiple casters at once using a single control. This makes it safer and more convenient, especially in situations where you need to lock several casters together, like with carts or hospital equipment.
The Central Braking System simplifies operations and makes it faster and easier to secure equipment. Although it is more expensive, it is becoming more popular, especially in medical and high-end technology fields where safety and efficiency are important.
If you use heavy-duty casters to move loads, you know how tricky it can be to line them up to reach the foot-activated brake. Wrap-around brakes make this easier by allowing access to the brake from any angle, no matter how the caster is positioned. It saves time, reduces frustration and keeps employees safer.
Investing in locking casters with brakes improves safety and control. Not only this, but it also lowers the risk of ergonomic injuries. This can save you money in the long run.
A single brake, also known as a top lock brake, is an important type of caster brake known for its easy use and flexibility. The system locks the rotation of the caster wheels but allows for changes in direction. This feature strikes a balance between movement and stability, making it great for places where you often need to change direction but avoid accidental rolling.
However, this flexibility requires careful handling, as improper use can cause accidents. Users must be aware of the load and the surface they are on to stay safe.
Cam brakes are cost-effective but can be unreliable. They are incompatible with ball bearings and look similar to side lock brakes, but they do not have the L-shaped metal shoe to stop the wheel. The poly cam brake lets you adjust the pressure on the wheel tread to your preferred level.
It features a polyurethane cam that, when activated, presses directly against the wheel’s surface to secure heavy loads. Poly cam brakes are similar to traditional poly lock brakes but allow more movement to accommodate thicker pneumatic tires. This type of brake is great for heavy loads that need good shock absorption while keeping everything steady.
Swivel locks are essential for precise control in caster wheel operations, especially for heavy-duty tasks. This latch-type locking plate fits into the caster’s swivel plate and locks its steering function. This is important in places where keeping a steady direction is as vital as stopping movement, like with heavy machinery or industrial equipment.
Swivel locks are often used alongside Single Brakes to provide a mix of flexibility and control. This combination is particularly useful for managing heavy loads, where careful movement and stability are key for safety and efficiency.
Choosing the right caster brake is crucial for safety and functionality. Start by assessing your application needs. Total Brakes offer the highest safety, while side brakes are great for hands-free operation.
Also, consider the load and terrain; swivel locks with single brakes are good for heavy-duty use, while central systems work well for synchronizing multiple casters. Lastly, ensure the brake materials are durable for your environment.
Suggested Read: How to Choose the Right Caster Wheels for Furniture: Key Considerations and Tips
Choosing the right caster brake is essential for safety and efficiency. It is important to know your specific needs to make the best choice. At Muvall, we are proud to be a top manufacturer of high-quality caster wheels.
Our casters are perfect for any application as they are durable, functional and safe. Do not settle for less- choose Muvall for your caster wheel needs. Contact us today to explore our wide range and find the best solution for your business.
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