FAQ

Stainless Steel Economy K3 Caster with RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel FAQ

What is the Stainless Steel Economy K3 Caster with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel?

The Stainless Steel Economy K3 Caster, available in swivel and rigid versions, is a light-duty, budget-friendly caster made from stamped 304 stainless steel, paired with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel. Built for manual use in wet or corrosive settings like pharmaceutical labs, hospitals, or food service, it handles up to 350 lbs per caster (175 lbs for manual pushing) with a 2-inch wide, non-marking thermoplastic rubber (TPR) wheel on a polyolefin core, perfect for protecting floors and equipment.

What makes the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel a good choice for the SS-K3 Caster?

The RH wheel’s non-marking, injection-molded TPR tire, with a Shore 65A durometer, rolls quieter and smoother than standard rubber, absorbing shocks to protect equipment and cargo while gliding over small debris. It resists many chemicals and solvents, making it ideal for washdown settings. Paired with the SS-K3’s corrosion-resistant stainless steel frame, it’s a durable, cost-effective option for institutional use.

What applications are best for the SS-K3 Caster with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel?

This caster and wheel combo excels in pharmaceutical labs, hospitals, food service, animal labs, and butcher tables. The non-marking RH wheel protects sensitive floors like tile or linoleum, and the stainless steel SS-K3 thrives in wet or corrosive conditions, making it great for manually moved carts, tables, or lab equipment in hygienic environments.

How does the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel perform on smooth floors?

With its soft blue TPR tire (Shore 65A durometer) and Delrin bearings, the RH wheel glides smoothly on floors like concrete or tile, offering a quiet, cushioned ride that reduces vibration and protects floors. It’s not suited for heavy loads, so cut capacity by 50% for manual pushing (175 lbs max) and use the largest wheel size (3”, 4”, or 5”) for easier rolling.

What are the key features of the SS-K3 Caster when paired with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel?

The SS-K3 has a 2-3/8” x 3-5/8” mounting plate with a slotted 1-3/4” x 2-7/8” to 3” bolt pattern for 5/16” bolts, a 3/8” axle bolt with a locking nut, and an optional lube axle for wheel greasing. The swivel version uses a double ball raceway with a 1/2” stainless steel rivet for easy turning, while the rigid version ensures straight-line movement. The RH wheel is NSF-listed, and the stainless steel frame resists corrosion.

What’s the difference between the swivel and rigid SS-K3 Casters with the RH wheel?

The swivel SS-K3 allows full 360-degree movement for maneuvering in tight spaces, while the rigid SS-K3 keeps equipment moving straight, ideal for long-distance manual pushing, typically placed opposite the push handle. Both are stamped 304 stainless steel, designed for light-duty manual use with the RH wheel’s 350-lb capacity (175 lbs for manual).

What brake options are available for the SS-K3 Caster with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel?

The SS-K3 swivel caster offers two brake options: the TB (Top Lock Brake), with a pedal on the side of the wheel, and the PTB (Plastic Top Lock Brake), with a plastic pedal behind the wheel for easier use. These brakes provide secure stopping for manual applications. Contact 800-501-3808 to confirm availability for your setup.

Can the SS-K3 Caster with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel handle wet or corrosive environments?

Yes, the 304 stainless steel SS-K3 is built for wet or corrosive settings like food service or labs. The RH wheel resists many chemicals, though harsh chemicals, impacts, or heat can affect the bond holding the TPR tread to the polyolefin core. It’s NSF-listed and perfect for washdown applications.

What’s the load capacity and size options for the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel on the SS-K3 Caster?

The RH wheel supports up to 350 lbs per caster (175 lbs for manual pushing) and comes in 3”, 4”, or 5” diameters, all 2” wide. For easier manual movement, pick the largest wheel size and avoid prolonged standing loads to prevent flat spots on the TPR tire.

How do I maintain the SS-K3 Caster with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel?

Grease the Delrin bearings via the optional lube axle to keep the RH wheel rolling smoothly, especially after washdowns. Clear debris from the wheel to avoid buildup, and avoid shock loads, overloading, or sideways dragging to protect the TPR tread bond. Rinse the stainless steel frame after washdowns to maintain corrosion resistance.

Where can I buy the SS-K3 Caster with the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel?

Order it at www.castercity.com or call 800-501-3808. They typically ship in about 2 days, with custom wheel or bearing options available on request.

Why is the SS-K3 considered an “economy” caster, and is it a drawback?

The SS-K3 is an economy caster because it skips a swivel bearing shield and grease fitting in the swivel raceway, keeping costs low. This is a plus for washdown settings, as a shield can trap water and create unsanitary conditions. It’s ideal for hygienic applications like animal labs or food prep with the RH wheel.

What’s the temperature range for the RH High Capacity Soft Blue Rubber Wheel on the SS-K3 Caster?

The RH wheel operates reliably from 32°F to 180°F, with its Shore 65A durometer TPR tire and Delrin bearings performing well in moderate temperatures. Avoid extreme heat, as it can affect the bond holding the tread to the polyolefin core, especially in tough conditions.