3 Signs Your Steel Caster Wheels Need To Be Replaced

Anything that has moving parts is going to experience wear and tear, including stainless steel caster wheels. That wear and tear is going to happen even faster if the caster wheels are being used in environments that are exposed to extreme conditions, such as hospitals or restaurants. Constant use and exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals and high water temperatures will eventually corrode stainless steel casters and cause them to stop functioning properly.

Replacing your steel casters before they become too damaged to use properly will prevent putting your equipment out of commission while repairs are being made.  But how can you tell when your steel casters have reached the point that they need to be replaced? What are the signs to look for? Here's some information that will help you to notice the signs that steel casters are reaching the point where they need to be replaced before they become so damaged that they stop working altogether.

Signs of Corrosion

Keep a close eye on the caster wheels. At first, you won't see visible signs of corrosion, but corrosion does start to happen as soon as the caster wheels are exposed to cleaning products or excessive temperatures.

Inspecting the caster wheels at least once a week will allow you to notice any signs of corrosion. Some of the most common signs include:

• Pitting of the wheels
• Discoloration
• The development of rust

If you notice any of these signs of corrosion, the sooner you replace the steel caster wheels, the better. The corrosion will only become worse if left alone, and eventually, the casters will stop working.

Difficulty Moving

Equipment on caster wheels should move with ease. If you notice that it is becoming difficult to move your equipment, it's time to change out the steel caster wheels. Difficulty moving the wheels could indicate that the moving components around the wheels are starting to break down. As soon as you notice it is becoming even the slightest bit difficult to move your equipment, arrange to have the casters replaced, as the problem will only get worse.

Less Sturdy

When you place items on the equipment, does it seem as if the weight is being unevenly distributed? Does the piece of equipment move from side-to-side, as if the weight is being shifted? If so, the strength of the wheels has become compromised and your equipment is not safe to use. Caster wheels that aren't sturdy need to be replaced right away.

If you notice any of these signs of trouble with your steel caster wheels, arrange to have them replaced as soon as possible. Failure to do so will only lead to equipment that won't work properly and that is unsafe. Contact a company like Garland's Inc for more info.