Friday, March 6, 2015

Stem Casters, Common Styles & Applications



There are several different styles of stem casters, from industrial applications to food service carts and dollies to furniture and displays. The problem with these casters and wheels is that there are many options and sizes to choose from and it can at times be confusing. Most stemmed casters are also available in stainless steel.
threaded stems, grip ring stem, grip neck stem, expandable adapters

Pictured are the styles of stems that are most common.







Threaded Stem Casters are the most complex due the size and thread pitch variations available.
These are very common but may need some expertise in determining the correct size.
See measuring a caster on the BuyCasters.com website. These casters are used on displays, furniture, carts and medical equipment, etc. and is usually used in light duty or medium duty applications.

Grip Ring Stems are used on most new office chairs and furniture, seen often on the hooded twin wheel casters for chairs. There are several other applications like Metro Brand Wire shelving, casters for Rubbermaid Mop Buckets and many more. They are designed to fit into a tube or socket and the C-Clip when compressed applies pressure to the tube. Very easy to replace and install.

Expandable Adapter casters are commonly used larger round and sometimes square tubing, these caster stems will expand, within a size range, by tightening the collar on the base of the stem and apply pressure to the walls of the tubing. These can sometimes be difficult to install and a wrench is usually required. Often used in Medium duty industrial and custom applications.

Grip Neck Stems are not used that often anymore, these stemmed casters are mostly seen on older wooden furniture. This stem needs a socket that is hammered into the legs of the furniture and the caster and wheel snaps into the socket.

If you have any questions about your caster and wheel needs please call 1-855-943-3511 or stop by www.buycasters.com