Wheels and Castors in Mechanical Engineering – Small Parts with Big Importance

In plant and mechanical engineering, wheels and castors are essential for the mobility of machines and systems as well as their efficient operation. Whether in packaging machines, conveyor systems, or sweepers – many industrial processes would be unthinkable without high-quality castors and wheels.

Learn what requirements are placed on wheels and castors in mechanical engineering and where they are used.

Applications of Wheels and Castors in Mechanical Engineering

Below are some typical application areas for wheels and castors in mechanical engineering:

Packaging Machines

Wheels and castors are crucial for the transport of goods in packaging machines. They must run precisely to ensure smooth guidance. These castors also need to withstand high stress such as extreme temperatures – as is the case with heat sealing machines.

Welding Systems

Machines in welding systems require not only high temperature resistance but also very low rolling resistance. The heavy-duty wheels must enable precise drum movements to ensure accurate weld seams. A typical use case is in the automotive industry, where heavy metal parts are guided with millimetres precision to the welding stations.

Machine Tools

Machine tools require precision castors that allow accurate movement of workpieces and machine components. These castors must be low in vibration and extremely durable. For instance, in CNC milling machines, wheels and castors position the workpieces accurately and thereby contribute to higher machining quality.

Sweepers

Sweepers use special wheels that must operate on a variety of surfaces – from smooth factory floors to rough outdoor asphalt. Especially for winter use, weather-resistant wheels and castors are essential, with materials that don’t become brittle in the cold.

Industrial Trucks

Forklifts and pallet jacks are constantly in use, not only in warehouses. These vehicles require heavy-duty wheels and castors, as they often carry very heavy loads. At the same time, good shock absorption is critical for safe transport. Space for manoeuvring is often limited – especially in high-bay warehouses, which require highly manoeuvrable castors to operate in tight spaces.

Special-Purpose Machinery

Custom-built machines are used in many fields. These also require specially tailored wheels and castors. Whether it’s special castors for robotic vehicles or precision castors for aircraft doors – Wicke develops customized castor solutions for the special-purpose machinery sector with its specific requirements.

Requirements for Wheels and Castors in Mechanical Engineering

Wheels and castors in mechanical engineering face specific challenges, including:

• High Load Capacity: Many applications require castors that can support several tons, such as in machine tools or industrial trucks.
• Low Rolling Resistance: Precision demands castors with minimal resistance, e.g., in welding systems or CNC machines.
• Temperature Resistance: Castors in packaging machines must endure heat from welding or sealing processes without losing shape or function.
• Wear Resistance: Castors in sweepers or conveyor systems are subjected to heavy use and must deliver long service life.
• Adaptability: Special-purpose machinery often requires custom-made castors with specific properties like chemical resistance or shock absorption.

Wicke: Your Partner for Customized Solutions

Wicke’s wheels and castors stand out in a wide range of applications due to their high efficiency and technical sophistication. We offer:

• Comprehensive Product Range: From standard models to tailor-made solutions – Wicke meets all requirements.
• Innovative Materials: Whether polyurethane for abrasion resistance or heat-resistant rubber – Wicke provides the right solution.
• Years of Expertise: With our experience, we help you choose the optimal wheels and castors.
• Reliability: Wicke products are known for durability and performance, even in demanding applications.

Precision and Performance with Wicke Wheels and Castors in Mechanical Engineering

Precision and quality are the key factors in mechanical engineering. With Wicke, you have a partner who manufactures the right wheels and castors for every requirement. Custom solutions of the highest quality for optimal equipment of your machines are our specialty. Let us know your needs – we will find the perfect solution!