Swivel locks allow the conversion of a swivel caster into a rigid caster, for pushing/pulling carts long distances in a straight line.
All of the casters here have the option of adding a swivel lock from their product detail page, making a caster's swivel section stationary.
As always, contact us if you don’t see what you need or if you would like some guidance in purchasing casters.
Swivel locks are mechanisms that allow the transformation of a rotating wheel into a rigid wheel. Caster wheels are generally designed to rotate 360 degrees, allowing for easy and flexible maneuverability in various directions. However, this free rotation can be a disadvantage when you need to push or pull a cart over long distances in a straight line.
By activating the swivel lock, you effectively lock the swivel mechanism, restricting the rotation of the wheel and turning it into a rigid wheel. Rigid wheels only move back and forth, maintaining a straight path. This conversion helps in the following ways:
1. Improved Control: When a caster wheel is locked in a rigid position, it provides better control for the operator, especially over long distances. This is because the car will not deviate from its course, requiring fewer corrections.
2. Reduced Effort: Pushing or pulling a cart with rigid wheels generally requires less effort compared to one with swivel wheels since there is no need to constantly adjust the direction.
3. Increased stability: Locking the caster wheels improves the stability of the cart, making it easier to maintain a straight line, which is particularly useful in environments with narrow aisles or where precise navigation is necessary.
4. Versatility: Swivel locks provide versatility by allowing users to switch between the maneuverability of swivel wheels and the stability of rigid wheels as needed. This adaptability is beneficial in various applications, from warehouses to manufacturing plants.
In summary, swivel locks offer a practical solution for converting swivel wheels to rigid wheels, optimizing the handling and control of carts over long distances.