Thread Guards & Hub Caps
Covering up wheels has functional as well as aesthetic benefits and both thread guards and hub caps are effective ways to do that. When ordering casters, you would be wise to consider adding one of them. Here’s what you need to know.
It’s amazing how something as simple as a small disk can save so much wear and tear and make casters look so much better. Thread guards prevent all kinds of debris – lint, metal filings, wood shavings and, of course, threads – from working its way into bearings and axles. Thread guards are mounted over and protect the axle. In addition, because they do not revolve with the wheel, they force debris to accumulate away from the wheel bearing. By protecting the wheel from all that debris, thread guards improve caster performance and dramatically reduce injuries and production delays.
Better yet, thread guards have aesthetic benefits and can enhance the look of a caster. They can be an opportunity to add another colour to a wheel. We frequently create two-tone wheel/thread guard combinations. In addition, larger thread guards that cover more of the core of the wheel produce a sleek, clean-line finish.
Thread guards are available in plastic and steel. Each have their advantages, but plastic is often a more cost effective option and offers more choices of shapes and colours.
Another way to cover the inner portion of a wheel is with hub caps. While they don’t offer the same protection as thread guards, they look great and allow casters to make a design statement, adding to the overall aesthetics of racks, carts and displays. Hub caps are often paired with sealed ball bearings which do offer protection from debris. Algood was the industry leader in introducing hub caps to casters and we continue to offer a wide range of very sharp looking hub caps. However you choose to do it, covering up the inner portion of a wheel offers significant functional and aesthetic benefits.
To find the best option for your requirements, contact your Algood Sales Rep or reach out to our customer service team by email service@algood.com or by phone at +1 (800) 254-6633.