What are Swivel locks? These are special locks that make swivel casters rigid. Rigid casters move materials and equipment in a straight line, but they must all be facing the same direction. Swivel casters, on the other hand, can move in any direction. This feature makes them useful for transporting pallets. Here are some benefits of swivel locks.

Swivel locks convert swivel casters to rigid casters.

To make swivel casters rigid, you need to install a swivel lock. Colson swivel locks are foot-operated. They can handle up to 6,000 pounds each and eliminate the need to bend over and engage the pull-ring. This feature reduces back and hands soreness. You must push the foot pedal in the up position to engage the lock. When the foot pedal is in the down position, the lock disengages, and the caster returns to its swivel state.

A swivel caster is a flexible type of caster. It has two main types, swivel casters, and rigid casters. Rigid casters are more stable and can hold a much heavier load than swivel casters. This means that you can use them to move pallets, for example, and are more comfortable with the motion.

Remember to check the wheel specifications when choosing between the swivel and rigid casters. Swivel casters are generally more flexible, while rigid casters are easier to maneuver and don’t pivot. While they’re easy to use, they’re more expensive than rigid casters. If you’re not moving frequently, you might want to choose rigid casters.

They are easier to maneuver than rigid casters.

A shopping cart with swivel casters will turn much more accessible than one with rigid casters. The reason is simple: swivel casters rotate along the direction of travel, so steering is easier. A shopping cart with rigid casters requires more force to turn, and the front wheels rotate at different speeds and turn radiuses. Swivel casters can accommodate larger loads and are more maneuverable than rigid casters.

Fixed casters are better suited for long straight distance travel, as they require less effort to steer and are steadier than their swivel counterparts. Rigid casters are also generally more robust and are rated for the same capacity as swivel casters. Rigid casters are usually one- or two-piece constructions and riveted or welded to equipment or carts. The rear wheels are molded plastic, so you may want to choose a swivel option for your workspace.

One of the most significant disadvantages of rigid casters is the flutter. Flutter occurs when a caster loses complete contact with the ground and regains it, so the vehicle starts to move in an unwanted direction. When a caster regains full contact with the ground, it can be in any orientation. Swivel casters can help you correct the direction and prevent flutter at slow speeds. But at higher speeds, they can’t do it.

They are great for transporting pallets.

You may wonder how to make a swivel-type caster rigid to transport pallets. There are many reasons for doing so, including safety. Rigid casters aren’t very flexible. However, you can still control their movement, as they do not roll in various directions when operating. They are also sturdy and durable than swivel casters and ideal for moving heavy, flat loads.

When choosing casters, choose ones with large wheels. This will make them easier to maneuver than smaller wheels. The bigger the wheel, the stronger the caster, and the better it will do the job. You can buy wheels with diameters ranging from one-half-inch to 25 inches. Select wheels with a minimum of 3 inches to accommodate heavy loads.

Another important consideration is how much load you’ll be carrying. A rigid caster will not be easily deformed, so choose one with a high capacity. It will also be more difficult to move heavy units with swivel casters, which can be problematic for moving heavy units. However, these carts are helpful for assembly lines and small workstations.