FAQ

Plate Caster Model 3 with AP Solid All Polyurethane Wheel

What is the AP Solid All Polyurethane Wheel on the Plate Caster Model 3?

The AP Wheel is a blue, non-marking, solid polyurethane tire with no metal center, designed for sanitary and washdown applications. With a 1-1/4” flat tread, 3” to 5” diameters, a plain bore with steel spanner bushing (stainless steel option), and 350 lbs capacity, it’s NSF-rated and ideal for wet environments like hospitals, food processing plants, or pharmaceutical labs, featuring sloped surfaces to drain water.

Why choose AP Polyurethane Wheels for washdown environments?

The AP Wheel’s solid polyurethane construction eliminates bond failure and tire separation, with angled surfaces to drain water post-washdown, ensuring hygiene. NSF-rated and non-marking, it supports up to 350 lbs in wet or dry settings like food processing plants, hospitals, or labs.

How does the AP Wheel’s water-draining design benefit sanitary applications?

The AP Wheel’s sloped surfaces prevent water buildup after washdowns, maintaining a clean, sanitary environment. This butcher-wheel-like design is perfect for food prep, hospitals, or pharmaceutical labs where hygiene is critical.

Can AP Polyurethane Wheels be used in wet and corrosive environments?

Yes, the solid polyurethane tire and optional stainless steel spanner bushing resist corrosion in wet environments. For full washdown compatibility, pair with a stainless steel caster frame, as the zinc-plated frame isn’t suited for prolonged wet conditions.

Can AP Polyurethane Wheels handle chemicals in pharmaceutical labs?

Yes, the Shore 60D polyurethane tire resists many chemicals and solvents in wet or dry lab settings, making it suitable for pharmaceutical labs. Avoid harsh chemicals to maintain the wheel’s sanitary performance.

How easy is it to push the Plate Caster Model 3 with AP Polyurethane Wheels?

The AP Wheel rolls smoothly even at 350 lbs capacity on smooth floors due to its solid polyurethane construction and plain bore with spanner bushing, making it ideal for manual pushing in hospitals, labs, or food processing plants.

Can I park the Plate Caster Model 3 with AP Polyurethane Wheels under load?

Avoid parking under loads exceeding 70% of the 350 lbs capacity (245 lbs) for long periods. The polyurethane tire may develop flat spots, impacting performance in hospitals, food processing, or lab settings.

Are AP Polyurethane Wheels suitable for rough floors?

No, these Shore 60D polyurethane wheels are designed for smooth, dry or wet floors without obstructions. They’re ideal for sanitary settings like labs, hospitals, or food processing plants, not environments with rough or abusive floors.

Do AP Polyurethane Wheels on the Plate Caster Model 3 require maintenance?

The plain bore with spanner bushing may require occasional lubrication to maintain smooth rolling. Regularly inspect for wear and clean to ensure hygiene and longevity in washdown settings like food processing or labs.

What are the mounting specs for the Plate Caster Model 3 with AP Polyurethane Wheels?

The Plate Caster Model 3 has a 2 3/8” x 3 5/8” top plate with a slotted bolt hole pattern of 1 3/4” x 2 7/8” to 3”, using 5/16” bolts, fitting standard carts or shelving in sanitary settings.

Is the Plate Caster Model 3 with AP Polyurethane Wheels NSF-rated for food service?

Yes, both the Plate Caster Model 3 and the AP Wheel are NSF-rated, making them ideal for food service, hospitals, or pharmaceutical labs in wet or dry environments where hygiene is critical.

How do I replace the AP Polyurethane Wheel on the Plate Caster Model 3?

Match the wheel’s diameter (3” to 5”), 1-1/4” tread width, and 3/8” axle. Choose a blue solid polyurethane wheel with a flat tread, plain bore, and steel or stainless steel spanner bushing for the same non-marking, sanitary performance.

How do AP Polyurethane Wheels compare to rubber wheels for washdown casters?

AP polyurethane wheels roll easier than conventional rubber wheels, even at 350 lbs capacity, and offer better floor protection in wet or dry settings. Their solid design and water-draining surfaces make them superior for sanitary washdown applications like food processing or hospitals.

What are the advantages of the swivel design in the Plate Caster Model 3?

The swivel design features two ball bearings on hardened raceways and a metal dust cap, ensuring smooth 360-degree movement and protecting the raceways from dirt and dust in sanitary settings like labs or food processing plants.

Can the AP Polyurethane Wheel handle outdoor use in food processing plants?

Yes, the AP Wheel is designed to roll indoors or outdoors in wet or dry conditions, with a -50°F to 180°F temperature range. Use with a stainless steel frame for outdoor washdown applications to prevent frame rust.