2

Three swivel castors

of identical height
For small loads. The appliance is easily
manoeuvrable in all directions. When
travelling straight, the appliance is hard
to control. With this arrangement, the
appliance tends to tilt.
Four swivel castors
of identical height
For confined areas. The appliance is
easily manoeuvrable in all directions.
When travelling straight, the appliance
is, however, hard to control. This can be
improved by fitting directional locks to
two of the swivel castors.
Two swivel castors and two fixed
castors all of identical height
This is the most frequently used castor
arrangement.
Straight line travelling as well as
manoeuvrability is good. In confined
areas, however, the appliance is hard to
manoeuvre.
Alternatively, one wheel set, i.e. two
wheels on one axle, may be fitted
instead of the fixed castors.
Depending on the requirements
placed upon the manoeuvrability of
appliances/machines, the castors must
be positioned accordingly. The various
possibilities for castor arrangement are
described in the following section.
Four fixed castors, with the centre
castors having a slightly higher total
height
Cost-favourable castor arrangement.
Good straight travelling and relatively
easy manoeuvrability. The appliance
has, however, the tendency to tilt with
this arrangement. Alternatively, one
wheel set, i.e. two wheels on one axle,
may be fitted instead of the central fixed
castors.
Two swivel castors, two fixed castors,
with the fixed castors having a
slightly higher total height
Good straight travelling of the appliance
and directional changes on the spot.
The appliance should ideally be used on
even floors, as it has a tendency to tilt.
Alternatively, one wheel set, i.e. two
wheels on one axle, may be fitted
instead of the fixed castors.
Four swivel castors,
two fixed castors
of identical height
Costly castor arrangement.
Recommended for heavy loads and long
appliances.
The appliance is easily steerable with
this arrangement. Alternatively, one
wheel set, i.e. two wheels on one axle,
may be fitted instead of the fixed
castors.
B. Selection Criteria for Wheels and Castors
29
4. Manoeuvrability