16Oct 0

Four Types of Load Capacity

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When selecting the right caster for equipment, it’s best practice to use capacity as measured in weight ratings as a key factor. However, load capacity is influenced by various dynamics, including how and where the caster will be used. In this edition of CasterU, we’ll break down the four primary types of load capacity—static load, dynamic load, side load, and impact load. Ultimately, it will help you determine what to consider when choosing casters for your application.

1. STATIC LOAD CAPACITY

Static load capacity refers to the maximum weight a caster can support when the equipment is stationary. This is the simplest type of load to calculate, as it only considers the weight exerted on the caster at rest.

How It’s Measured
Static load capacity is determined by placing the equipment on the caster without any movement. It’s often measured using this formula:

C = (E + P) / (N-1), where:
E = Dead weight of the equipment
P = Payload
N = Number of casters or wheels

You’ll notice that the number of casters has been reduced by one. That’s because equipment is often used on uneven surfaces, and the load is not equally distributed to all of the casters or wheels at the same time. Calculating the static load capacity based on one less wheel is advisable to avoid a catastrophic failure if one caster loses contact for any unforeseen reason.

When is It Important
Static load is crucial when the equipment is designed to remain in place for long periods, such as server racks, tool boxes, shelving units, display stands, or furniture.

2. DYNAMIC LOAD CAPACITY

Dynamic load capacity is the maximum weight a caster can support while the equipment is moving. For all practical purposes, casters are always rated and designed based on dynamic load capacity. That will always be less than the static load capacity because of the many stresses movement places on the caster, including temperature, deviation in floor surfaces, obstacles, speed, evenness of load distribution, and changes in direction.

How It’s Measured
The dynamic load capacity of a caster is established by validation testing using factors such as speed, maximum obstacle height, floor surface condition, rest/run time and wheel size. Casters must complete the dynamic test without any functional impairment. As with static load, dynamic load is calculated based on one less wheel. It is very important to consider the most extreme possible conditions of an application so that the required dynamic load is not underestimated.

When is It Important
This is a key consideration for almost all caster applications including carts, mobile storage units, hospital beds or wherever frequent movement is involved. A caster with inadequate dynamic load capacity can wear down quickly, reduce performance, and increase maintenance costs.

3. SIDE LOAD CAPACITY

Side load capacity refers to the sideways force exerted on the caster when the body is in operation. This can happen when equipment is pushed from the side or if it makes sharp turns. It is normally a consideration for rigid casters.

How It’s Measured
Side load is tested by applying lateral force to the caster to see how much pressure it can handle before deformation. For example, in a warehouse setting, a heavy cart making sudden side turns puts immense stress on the casters, which could result in failure if the side load capacity is insufficient. Standards have been set for testing casters for testing side load capacity.

When is It Important
Side load capacity is critical for environments with tight spaces, where equipment needs to pivot or turn or withstand side impacts.

4. IMPACT LOAD CAPACITY

Impact load refers to the sudden force exerted on a caster, such as the jarring when the caster hits uneven surfaces or the shock loads when the payload gets dropped on the cart.

How It’s Measured
Impact load capacity is determined by testing the caster’s ability to absorb and withstand sudden shocks. It is measured in relation to force exerted by sudden impact. Standards have been set to test casters for vertical impact performance.

When is It Important
Impact load is an important consideration for casters used in rugged environments such as loading docks, factories, or outdoor settings.

A NOTE ABOUT TESTING
At Algood, we are committed to ensuring that each of our casters and wheels conform to the relevant load capacity ratings for specified applications. We rigorously test all our casters and wheels to ensure they fully adhere to industry benchmarks. Discover more about our testing processes.

Understanding the various types of caster load capacity—static, dynamic, side, and impact load—is key to making an informed decision when choosing casters for your equipment. Each of these factors plays a unique role in how well your caster will perform and last in different environments. By considering each of these you will save you time, money, and the hassle of frequent replacements or maintenance.

To discuss your load requirements or if you have any related questions, feel free to contact your Algood representative or a member of our customer service team.

CasterU

9Oct 0

Product Spotlight: Forged Steel Caster Series

Heavy Duty Forged Steel: Casters for Durability

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6900 Series: 6906-A46H-SS-RB [Zinc Finish] — 6900 Series

These four heavy-duty caster series feature a unique integral kingpin design. The kingpin and the top plate are cast together as one piece from AISI 1045 forged steel, creating exceptional strength and durability.

All four of these casters are manufactured with two double-deep grooved raceways – a 7/16” or 1” upper ball race with a tapered roller thrust bearing. The four well-built forged steel casters have specs that increase with the size of each individual series.

7100 Series: S7108-A46J-UR-RB [Zinc Finish] — 7100 Series

Each of the series comes with a variety of wheels. The 6900 Series has over two dozen wheel choices. While the 7100 and 7200 have fewer choices, they are also available with our Envirothane™ and RollX™ wheels. The 7500 series can be paired with ten of our strongest 2.5” tread width wheels, including our Envirothane HD™.

7200 Series: S7208-A53J-MR-RB [Zinc Finish] — 7200 Series

Other options are a variety of brakes, including a thumb screw, a universal wheel, a four-position lock on the 7100 and a PolyCam brake on the 7500 series. There are also many bearing choices for each series.

These heavy-duty casters are perfect for abusive conditions and can be used for industrial platforms, garbage & cargo containers, factory use, dolly carts, waste bins, heavy material handling and all other hard-working industrial functions.

7500 Series: S7506-A53J-LVW-RB [Zinc Finish] — 7500 Series

If you are looking for uniquely well-built casters with high capacities and extended longevity, learn more about our forged steel series by contacting your local Algood representative or a member of our customer service team.

View the 6900 Series Specs

View the 7100 Series Specs

View the 7200 Series Specs

View the 7500 Series Specs

Download the Forged Steel Product Sheets

Algood is proud to manufacture its casters and wheels right here in North America. With our fully integrated manufacturing facility in Toronto, we are leaders in quality and innovation. For more information about Algood Casters, Call: 1-800-254-6633 or Email: Service@Algood.com

Product Spotlight

1Oct 0

Caster University: Caster Electro Plating Process Explained

Caster Electroplating Explained

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Electroplating is a key component of the caster manufacturing process. In this issue of CasterU, we provide you with everything you need to know about plating.

Caster components are plated for two reasons. First, plating protects parts from corrosion. In fact, parts that are plated corrode 100 times slower than those that are untreated. Plating also enhances the appearance of parts, which is particularly important for furniture and retail fixtures.

Zinc plating is the most common coating available. It is also the most economical and requires the shortest lead times. Nickel, chrome and antique finishes are used to meet visual requirements. In this primer, we focus on zinc.

Based on the type of electroplating, there are many possible steps in the plating process. Here is a typical zinc plating process:

Soak & Cleaning — For the electroplating process to be most successful, all components must be thoroughly cleaned. Oil residue from stamping and chemicals from heat treatment processes prevent the adhesion of zinc plating and cause flaking. Parts are immersed in different acid and/or alkaline baths as part of electro-cleaning processes, which remove residue, debris, and scales at a micro level.

Zinc Plating Bath — Components are immersed in a solution that includes zinc and other chemicals. The length of time and other parameters of the solution determine the thickness of the zinc coating. At Algood, our standard coating thickness is eight microns, between 0.0003 and 0.0005 inches. The other chemicals in the solution add protection to the zinc coating and can enhance its appearance.

Dipping in the zinc solution can be done using a tumbling process where many small parts like nuts and washers are placed in a barrel and plated at the same time. That process isn’t suitable for bigger parts because fewer parts can fit economically in the barrel, and it would also result in dinging or denting. The alternative is a rack plating process in which parts are suspended through fixtures onto racks, and the complete rack with parts is dipped in the plating solution.

Rinsing & Seal Application — Components are rinsed thoroughly and dried, and often, an additional sealing solution is applied for added protection against rust.

Corrosion protection testing is done by placing parts in a salt spray test chamber and measuring the number of hours until rust appears. Actually, there are two types of rust that are considered. The first to appear is white rust, which results when the zinc coating is oxidized. Once that coating has deteriorated, the metal itself oxidizes, and red rust appears.

There are options available to enhance zinc plating. Components can be immersed in the zinc solution for longer to add thickness to the coating. Additional chemicals can be added to provide enhanced protection to the plating. This is often done for casters to be used in the computer industry, where any flaking could contaminate the whole environment.

Environmental standards are extremely critical and all Algood’s plating is ROHS compliant, meaning that no hazardous chemicals are used.

Of course, your Algood sales representative or a member of our customer service team would be pleased to talk to you about the right plating to meet your requirements.

CasterU

31Jul 0

5000 Series: A 450 lb. Caster with a Ton of Options

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5000 Series: S5053-A27D-HTPH [Zinc Finish]

Our 5000 Series may be the most versatile casters we make. They come with an incredible array of options, including plates, stems, brakes, wheels and finishes. In addition, these casters can be configured for just about any application.

With a capacity of 450 lbs., the 5000 Series can handle an overall equipment load of more than 1,800 lbs. It comes in 3”, 4”, 5”, and 6” diameters and can accommodate tread widths of both 1-1/4” and 1-1/2”. At least six different plate options are available, and it also comes as a bolt-hole. A wide range of stem choices includes round, threaded, both round and square expandable, and metric sizes.

5000 Series: S5053-A27D-PLY-PB-TG-iLK [Zinc]

The 5000 series casters can be produced with over a dozen wheel options including our Envirothane™ and ProTech™ as well as the Lava™ for high-temp applications. Also, you can get it with a double lock brake (DLB), top lock brake (TLB) or our trademarked iLock™ precision directional and wheel lock brake. There are numerous bearing choices and the caster can be finished in black (flat, gloss, ionic), brass, chrome, yellow chromate or the standard zinc finish. Thread guards are also available.

These casters are manufactured in our fully integrated facility in Toronto. That means you get remarkable lead times, delivery dates you can depend on and guaranteed North American quality backed by our 3-year No-Excuse Warranty.

Adding to its versatility, the 5000 Series is NSF-approved, making it perfect for healthcare, pharmaceutical, food processing, high-tech, and other clean environments. These casters are moisture-resistant and maintenance-free. They can be used in a wide variety of applications, including mobile warehousing equipment, housekeeping and linen carts, material handling equipment, bakery equipment, and store fixtures.

If you want to take advantage of the versatility of the 5000 Series, you can contact your local Algood representative or a member of our customer service team.

Get All the 5000 Series Wheel Specs

Download the 5000 Series Product Sheet

Algood is proud to manufacture its casters and wheels right here in North America. With our fully integrated manufacturing facility in Toronto, we are leaders in quality and innovation. For more information about Algood Casters, Call: 1-800-254-6633 or Email: Service@Algood.com

Product Spotlight

17Jul 0

Brakes: The Essential Option

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There are many things that you might want to be unstoppable but casters aren’t one of them. Brakes are a critical caster component and choosing the right brake is a key factor in both safety and performance. This edition of CasterU provides a rundown of the brake options that we offer including the features and benefits for each one.

Side Lock Brake (SLB)

7000 Series: S7006-A38H-UG-RB-SLB [Zinc Finish]

Features
• Foot Activated
• Yoke is pressed against wheel and creates positive contact with hub
• Available with larger pedal for use with pneumatic wheels
• Can be used on stainless steel casters

Benefits
• Economical
• Ideal for wheels where positive contact with the tread is difficult
• Larger pedal brings ease of activation

Top Lock Brake (TLB)

MAXX™ Series: SE6563-A38H-RXW-RB-TLB2 [Zinc Finish]

Features
• Activated by side mounted pedal
• Creates positive contact with top of wheel tread
• Available with polyurethane coating on actuator

Benefits
• Well suited for wheels with softer tread
• Better engagement than SLB
• Coated actuator can be used with metal wheels
• Can be used in high temperature environments

iLock™ (iLK & iLK2)

MAXX™ Series: SE6563-A38H-RXW-RB-TG-iLK [Zinc Finish]

Features
• Attractive design
• Locks swivel and wheel
• 4-position lock available
• Foot activated, engages easily
• Made of high impact nylon
• Mechanism includes high tensile spring with rubber layer
• Modular – can be added to an existing caster

Benefits
• Securely locks hard and soft wheels
• Can be used on high capacity casters
• Keeps caster square
• Moisture friendly, won’t rust
• Increases longevity
• Easy to engage, doesn’t damage shoes
• iLock for EMAXX™ Series (iLK2) includes elongated pedal with ridges that provides easier access and better grip

Double Lock Brake (DLB)

2309 Series: S2359-A27D-HTPH-DLB [Zinc Finish]

Features
• Locks both swivel and wheel
• Available in aluminum
• Foot activated
• Incorporated into the frame of the caster
• Available in aluminum (DLB2)

Benefits
• Provides more secure positive contact
• Secures equipment, preventing all movement
• Adds safety, prevents accidents
• Can be used in high temp applications

PolyCam Brake (PCB)

Algood Caster Brakes: S6863-A46H-RX-RB-PCB

Features
• Foot activated
• PolyCam rollers made of Envirothane™

Benefits
• Designed to secure heavy duty loads
• Secures direct pressure on the contact face providing a dependable brake

Pedal Wheel Brake (PWB)

Algood Caster Brakes: S6563-A38H-RXW-RB-TG-PWB

Features
• Economical add-on
• Made of plastic
• Direct contact between mechanism and wheel

Benefits
• Can be installed on-site
• Easily engaged
• Provides secure positive lock

Universal Wheel Brake (UWB)

Algood Caster Brakes: S6863-A46H-RX-RB-UWB

Features
• Positive lock brake that is pre-welded to the fork of a caster
• Can be customized to the angle of operation
• Allows for forward or reverse movement
• Fully adjustable including the brake force and the position on the wheel

Benefits
• Can be adjusted to maintain contact as wheel wears
• Can accommodate soft or hard wheels
• Can be adjusted to meet floor conditions
• Can be used on casters with higher capacities

Thumb Screw Brake (TSB)

Algood Caster Brakes: S6863-A46H-RX-RB-TSB

Features
• Hand tightened
• Creates positive contact between lock and wheel

Benefits
• Economical
• Accessibility on low profile casters
• Easy to engage

Position Swivel Lock (PSL)

The position swivel lock functions independently from any of the braking mechanisms on the caster. The PSL only locks the swivel mechanism, it does not act as a brake for the caster.

Algood Caster Brakes: S6863-A46H-RX-RB-4PSL

Features
• Securely locks swivel mechanism
• Comes welded to caster or can be added on

Benefits
• Converts swivel caster to rigid
• Can be installed on site
• Restricts equipment to movement in one direction only

CasterU

16May 0

What’s really changed after COVID?

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In the thick of the COVID crisis, many pundits predicted how we do business would change forever. Now, a year after the official end of the COVID emergency, I’ve been thinking about what, if anything, is really different here at Algood. I’m usually skeptical about what the so-called experts say, but I have to admit, I’m surprised at the amount of change that has occurred. Here’s what I’ve noticed.

Face-to-face is rare. Five years ago, if I told a customer I wanted to arrange a video call, the response would likely be, “Huh?” A good portion would not have had access to a Zoom or Teams account and if it were something important, the clear expectation would be that I would arrange to be there in person. Today, if I tell a customer I’m flying out to see them, they would probably want to know what’s wrong. Even with companies that haven’t been on the leading edge of the technology curve, the adoption of video calls is broad.

Hybrid is here to stay. There’s no question that a lasting impact of COVID is remote work, but it’s a multi-faceted dynamic. Many members of our management and administrative teams work from home for at least part of the week. The related work-life balance and time staff members can spend with family reduces stress and allows for greater focus. In addition, productivity has increased because contributions are measured in terms of availability, output or tasks completed, as opposed to simply hours worked. However, the inability to collaborate and brainstorm in person as a team is a clear loss.

Good employees are hard to find. The ‘great resignation’ and other COVID-related effects have significantly shifted the dynamics of the labour market. Skilled and responsible employees are now in high demand, leading to increased wages and a need for what I call, ‘forced flexibility’ in work arrangements. This shift is putting employees in a position of advantage, forcing businesses to adapt to whatever their demands might be.

Turning on a dime. Within weeks of the onset of COVID, at Algood, we were in complete overdrive, forced to respond to the never-ending needs of healthcare and related sectors. We had to pivot then and we have become even more adaptable since. Not only can we better engineer solutions, but our manufacturing processes can be re-tooled even quicker. We are definitely able to be more responsive.

Speed Matters. As I mentioned, the early days of the pandemic were just-in-time manufacturing on steroids. We simply couldn’t produce casters or wheels fast enough. While the urgency has been lifted, the demand for speed remains. In part, that results from the “Amazon next-day delivery” effect. Also, customers gained the upper hand during the pandemic, and they are not about to relinquish it. We are constantly being pushed to deliver faster.

Rich Relationships. For many reasons, surviving COVID required relationships you could count on—whether with long-time customers, suppliers, accountants, lawyers, or bankers. The importance of having those relationships has been maintained, and we see it in the day-to-day of our business. While we are thrilled to meet the needs of every customer—new and old—our goal, more than before the pandemic, is to create deep, long-term relationships.

No more jackets. In our more laid-back environment at Algood, dress was never a big deal – unless you were going to see a customer or an important contact. But, two years of dress shirts paired with shorts or pyjama bottoms changed all that. Jackets are a relic and in fact, sneakers have become a mainstay of business attire. As long as what you’re wearing is clean and unwrinkled, it’s a free-for-all.

What’s on your list? It’s interesting for me to think about what has changed from an Algood perspective. But I wonder how many of these are unique to us. I’d like to know what you are seeing in your businesses. What’s on your list of post-COVID changes?

President's Blog

11Apr 0

Algood Product Spotlight: Scaffolding Casters 8900 Series

Saving Lives with Scaffolding Casters

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Scaffolding Casters are crucial to ensuring workplace safety. They enable scaffolding to move freely on uncertain outdoor surfaces, protecting the lives of workers at dangerous heights. With upcoming construction and renovation projects, it’s important to check existing casters for wear and tear and replace those that are worn.

Our 8900 Series scaffolding caster prioritizes safety. It features a high-quality dual-locking system that engages the wheel tread and swivel section. The 1-3/8” x 4” industry standard round stem includes a cross-drilled hole that allows the stem to be locked in the scaffolding’s tubing.

The 8900 Series has a corrosion-resistant bright zinc finish that is ideal for outdoor use. It also comes with a Moldon Rubber wheel that can easily navigate uneven outdoor surfaces. Diameters of 6” and 8” are available, with capacities of up to 800 lbs.

Steel roller bearings with drilled hardened steel spanner bushing and plastic side washers are standard. Options for the 8900 series include a range of bearings. It can also be equipped with other wheels to accommodate scaffolding that is being used indoors.

Don’t take any chances, make sure to check and order scaffolding casters now. To discuss your needs, get in touch with your local Algood representative or a member of our customer service team.

See all the Scaffolding Caster details

Download the Scaffolding Caster Catalogue Page

Algood is proud to manufacture its casters and wheels right here in North America. With our fully integrated manufacturing facility in Toronto, we are leaders in quality and innovation. For more information about Algood Casters, Call: 1-800-254-6633 or Email: Service@Algood.com

Product Spotlight

4Apr 0

ADIA 100-ton Machine Presses at ADIA's Facility

Algood’s Newest Investment in Cutting-Edge Machinery

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In a strategic move towards bolstering our manufacturing capabilities and cementing our commitment to customer satisfaction, we proudly unveil our latest acquisition: the cutting-edge AIDA 100-ton Press. This acquisition stands as a testament to our unwavering dedication to both our customers and the future of Algood.

Our investment in this state-of-the-art machinery, alongside multiple other recent additions in the past year, underscores our proactive approach towards innovation and excellence. Specifically designed for light-duty metal stamping of up to 3mm thickness, the AIDA press boasts an array of advanced features, including a quill-mounted flywheel, wet clutch and brake system, safety controllers, and automatic shut height adjustment.

This latest addition seamlessly integrates with our existing fleet of 200 & 300-ton presses. Several of which are also from the reputable AIDA brand, renowned for their reliability and durability. With an anticipated operational lifespan of over three decades, our new press aligns perfectly with our long-term vision of sustained growth and success.

At Algood, we recognize that investments in cutting-edge technology directly translate into enhanced productivity and efficiency. With over $1 million invested in new equipment and technology over the past year alone, our fully integrated North American manufacturing facility stands poised to meet the demands of even the most ambitious projects. This investment underscores our confidence in our products, processes, and our unique position within the marketplace.

Beyond mere machinery, this investment signifies our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. By bolstering our production capacity and streamlining our operations, we reaffirm our commitment to unparalleled on-time delivery and exceptional service.

With our latest addition, coupled with our existing arsenal of equipment and technology, we stand ready to anticipate and exceed the needs of our valued customers. Join us as we embark on this journey towards innovative manufacturing and shaping the future of Algood.

Cover Image Source: ADIA Global Machine Presses

News

7Mar 0

Product Spotlight: Tornado vs Twister Series - The Kingpinless Contest

Tornado vs Twister The Kingpinless Contest

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In this Product Spotlight, our two best-selling kingpinless casters face off feature to feature. You can see for yourself how they stack up. But here’s the spoiler alert. The uncontested winner is you, our customers, because the reality is you can’t go wrong with either one of these heavyweights.

Our most economical kingpinless caster features 1,500 lbs. of capacity and is ideal for high-impact, heavy-duty applications. The Tornado Series is also available in stainless steel.

Tornado™

With its unique leg construction and
steel-hardened head, this caster boasts 2,000 lbs. of capacity and offers unparalleled durability and longevity.

Twister™

Tornado Series: STO82-A38H-UGC-PB-UWB-4PSLN [Zinc Finish]

Tornado Series: STO62-1.000X4-UR-RB-SLB [Zinc Finish]

See the Full Tornado™ Series

Twister Series: STW62-A46H-MAU-RB-SLB [Zinc Finish]

See the Full Twister™ Series

Both the Tornado and Twister are manufactured in our integrated facility in Toronto. That means you get outstanding lead times, delivery dates you can depend on and unparalleled North American quality backed by our 3-Year No Excuse Warranty.

Download Tornado™ Catalogue

Download Twister™ Catalogue

Algood is proud to manufacture its casters and wheels right here in North America. With our fully integrated manufacturing facility in Toronto, we are leaders in quality and innovation. For more information about Algood Casters, Call: 1-800-254-6633 or Email: Service@Algood.com

Product Spotlight

28Feb 2

Profit vs Quality: Boeing vs Algood

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Recent events at Boeing are a cautionary tale for every manufacturer. They bring to life the ever-present tension between quality and profitability. That’s a very narrow path to navigate. Fall on one side, and your financial fortunes suffer. Falling on the other side puts your reputation – and, in the case of Boeing, lives at risk. Here are some thoughts about what really happened at Boeing and why I believe we’re doing a better job of managing the quality-profitability divide at Algood.

In January, a fuselage panel blew out on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9. The rapid loss of cabin pressure pulled the clothes off a child and caused oxygen masks to drop from the ceiling, but miraculously, none of the 171 passengers and six members were injured. This incident set off a mass investigation and the grounding of all Max 9 jets. Adding to Boeing’s problems, U.S. carriers that fly the Max 9 — reported finding loose bolts and other hardware in other panels, suggesting quality issues with the door plugs were not limited to one plane. Eventually, an investigation concluded that the fuselage bolts were never installed on the Alaskan Air jet and others.

This is about more than a couple of bolts. It’s a complete breakdown of safety procedures. If bolts can be left off a door assembly, who’s to say that they can’t be left off an engine or a wing?

All of this comes on the heels of a major quality lapse in the in-flight control systems that led to two catastrophic crashes in 2018, killing almost 350 people. That resulted in Boeing agreeing to pay $2.5 billion to settle a Justice Department investigation, admitting that employees misled regulators about the safety of the 737 Max. All Max jets were grounded worldwide for nearly two years.

You would have thought that Boeing would have learned its lesson. But almost unbelievably, that isn’t the case. Maybe that’s why the CEO of Alaska Air said, “I am more than frustrated and disappointed. I am angry. My demand on Boeing is, what are they going to do to improve their quality programs in-house?”

So, here’s what I believe to be the problem. The people at the top at Boeing are all finance guys. The current CEO, whose predecessor was fired because of the previous fatal quality issues, is a former Blackstone executive and rose through the ranks of accounting and finance. And clearly, he hasn’t turned the company around. For a company like Boeing, safety and quality must come first and the bottom line second.

There is always tension between meeting financial goals and maintaining quality and safety standards. But when those in charge are only concerned about the next quarter, it has a cascading impact on training, assembly, designers, engineers, and quality assurance. There needs to be a culture shift at Boeing.

Corporate ownership exacerbates the tension because the measure of success demanded by shareholders is always financial – even if it comes at the expense of quality. In an owner-managed operation like Algood, we have the freedom to proudly stand behind every caster and every wheel that leaves our fully integrated manufacturing facility.

No manufacturer is immune from quality assurance challenges. What sets companies apart is the way they deal with them. Many years ago, we had a major problem with our high-temperature wheels. When we discovered they were not meeting quality standards, we shut down the production program. Completely. In a day. We probably forfeited well into six figures in sales over six to eight months. We understood there was a failure, and the wheel material was not performing.

We started from scratch, re-developing a compound to meet the requirements. In fact, we created our own testing lab to ensure that the wheels functioned perfectly within the specified temperature range. We weren’t going to sell a product unless we were completely confident. It took nine months to perfect, but we haven’t had a single wheel fail since then. Interestingly, we’ve also tested many of our competitor wheels only to discover that many don’t meet industry standards.

We used to have a customer who would tell us that “quality is free.” In other words, he wasn’t willing to pay anything extra for quality. The reality is that there is a cost to quality. If you buy North American-made casters and wheels, you understand there is also value in that quality. Customers always want to pay less, and there are always ways of cutting costs. But there is a limit at some point because you have to believe in the quality of the product you’re selling.

At Algood, our QA and Engineering teams take the lead on product development, and I’m proud to listen to them. If they’re not satisfied, I’m not satisfied, and we’re not bringing that product to market. If the costs are too high, we’ll look for a way to produce a high-quality product at a more reasonable price point. But our customers understand that Algood’s quality is worth the peace of mind it comes with.

Dare I say that if Boeing were a little more like Algood, they would be flying a lot higher.

President's Blog

16Feb 0

Celebrating Family Values & Our Next Generation

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For years, we have been describing ourselves as the “Next Generation of Castersmiths.” While that refers to how we combine expert craftsmanship with the most advanced technology, it’s taken on a new and much more exciting meaning recently.

With Family Day this coming Monday and Algood’s 55th anniversary the day before, we thought it was the perfect time to introduce Elie Guttmann to the Algood community. Following in the footsteps of his father Craig Guttmann, Algood’s President and his grandfather Max Guttmann, Algood’s Founder, Elie is now literally the next generation of castersmiths.

Elie’s journey from a successful career in non-profit marketing to the world of caster and wheel production was fueled by a desire for new challenges and a shift from a digital to a tactile work environment. “Selling products that are physically built is a gratifying experience,” says Elie, emphasizing his newfound appreciation for the manufacturing sector’s role in the economy.

Currently supporting the U.S. sales effort, Elie is immersing himself in the intricacies of Algood’s product line, aiming to understand every caster, wheel, component, and configuration. His grandfather’s determination and success are an ongoing source of pride and inspiration. He has dedicated himself to following in his grandfather’s footsteps with aspirations of eventually contributing to Algood’s leadership team.

Elie’s focus on marketing-centered projects has been evident, particularly in the redesign of Algood’s website. With a keen eye for detail, he invested countless hours conceptualizing, developing, and implementing the new design, now channelling his efforts into optimizing the website’s performance as a marketing tool.

Craig sees this generational collaboration as invigorating. He appreciates Elie’s fresh ideas and unique perspectives, especially noting his contributions to the catalogue and website. “We are a unique manufacturer and needed just the right website to tell our story, and Elie nailed it,” says Craig, emphasizing the importance of innovative marketing in showcasing Algood’s uniqueness.

Craig acknowledges that certain aspects of the business can only be learned through experience. “There are things you can’t possibly learn at school—assessing ROI, how and when to take risks and how to practically understand engineering all have to be learned by making mistakes,” he asserts.

A large part of what sets Algood apart is the values that come from being a family-owned enterprise. “We still hold close to my father’s values in how we operate this company,” Craig relates. “That makes having a third generation working in the company even more meaningful.”

This represents a promising new chapter for Algood. Elie is helping to fuel our growth through fresh perspectives and well-honed skills. Craig and his brother Sean, VP of Manufacturing, see the renewed energy that Elie’s innovative ideas, optimism, and excitement are infusing into the company. And, they are confident that Elie will uphold the cherished family values that have propelled Algood’s triumphs for over five decades. In the months and years ahead, we are certain you will hear much more about Elie’s contributions to Algood’s success as our dynamic “next generation of castersmiths.”

News

7Feb 0

Stainless Steel: 304 or 316?

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Stainless steel resists rust and corrosion while preventing scaling, and that makes it the ideal solution for casters being used in wet, outdoor, clean and high-temperature environments. Once you’ve decided on stainless steel, you then have the choice of 304 or 316-grade stainless. In this issue of CasterU, we give the information you need to make the right decision.

6809 Series: S6859-A45H-MPU-RB [304 Stainless Steel]

Stainless steel is actually a mixture of steel and a minimum of 10.5% chromium. The chromium keeps the steel from oxidizing, rusting, corroding, and eventually staining, so it really is stain-less.

304-grade Stainless Steel
The most common grade of stainless steel is SAE 304. “SAE” is the Society of Automotive Engineers, the organization that standardizes and designates various grades. 304 Stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. When used in casters, it is:

Work-hardened – steel that becomes stronger and harder through a bending and forming process
Electro-polished – Untreated stainless steel has a very dull look. Because super-clean items are expected to be brilliantly reflective, we electro-polish our stainless steel casters.
De-burred – After being stamped, stainless steel components often have razor-sharp edges that can be a hazard. We de-burr the material to ensure no one gets hurt.
De-magnetized – Stainless steel is often used in laboratories and environments containing sensitive equipment. De-magnetizing minimizes the impact on the surroundings.

Many Algood casters and wheels are available in 304 stainless steel and come with a full range of stainless steel components.

MAXX9 Series: S6559-A38H-NYNW-RB [304 Stainless Steel]

316-Grade Stainless Steel
316 Stainless is made up of 16% chromium, 10% nickel and 2% molybdenum. There’s a little more nickel and a little less chromium than in 304. However, the big difference is the molybdenum, a chemical element used for the strengthening and hardening of steel. The higher molybdenum content greatly increases the corrosion resistance of 316, providing superior resistance to chlorides and acids.

That makes 316 an ideal upgrade for technology production facilities that require an environment that is free of any contaminants. It’s also ideal for settings with strict hygiene and cleanliness standards, like pharmaceutical, hospitals and healthcare locations. Since sterilization processes in these industries combine both strong disinfectants with high temperatures to prevent contamination, a resistant alloy like 316 is ideal.

Our Maxx9 and 7009 series casters can be produced using 316-grade stainless steel

Other applications for both 304 and 316 stainless steel include:

Chemical processing and storage equipment.
Refinery equipment
Medical devices
Marine environments, especially those with chlorides present
Medical equipment and implants
Foodservice, processing, and preparation environments
Coastal environments
Areas with high salt levels (such as roadways)
Brewing facilities

To find out more about which grade of stainless steel is right for your project, contact your local Algood representative or a member of our customer service team.

CasterU

Tag: Caster Manufacturing

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