Not all caster wheels are created equal. One of the most important factors to consider before purchasing is the duty level—light, medium, or heavy duty. Choosing the correct classification ensures safe operation, prolongs equipment life, and prevents unnecessary caster failure. Here’s how they differ and where each type fits best.

1. Light Duty Casters

Typical Load Capacity: Up to approx. 50–75 kg (110–165 lbs) per caster

Light duty casters are designed for small, manually moved equipment such as:

• Office chairs & filing cabinets

• Small trolleys in shops or cafés

• Lightweight display stands

They usually feature thinner steel brackets, smaller wheel diameters (e.g., 2"–4"), and plain or basic ball bearings. While economical, they are not intended for rough floors or continuous industrial use.

China Zhongshan FFIBU Casters Co., Ltd produces light duty series under the FFIBU brand that focus on smooth rolling and floor protection in low-load applications.

2. Medium Duty Casters

Typical Load Capacity: Approx. 80–150 kg (175–330 lbs) per caster

Medium duty casters bridge the gap between everyday furniture wheels and full industrial castors. Common applications include:

• Hospital carts & mobile workstations

• Warehouse picking trolleys

• Bakery racks & light machinery

These models typically have double-ball race swivel heads, reinforced steel yokes, and precision ball or roller bearings for improved maneuverability under moderate loads.

FFIBU medium duty solutions are engineered with hardened raceways and carefully selected wheel compounds to balance load capacity with quiet, low-effort movement.

3. Heavy Duty Casters

Typical Load Capacity: 150 kg up to several hundred kilograms per caster

Heavy duty casters are built for demanding industrial environments:

• Automotive assembly lines

• Mold & die carts

• Large platform trucks & AGVs

They feature thick-gauge forged or pressed steel frames, large diameter wheels (4"–12"+), tapered roller or double ball bearings, and heat-treated kingpins. These casters are designed to withstand impact, continuous rolling, and harsh conditions.

From the workshop of China Zhongshan FFIBU Casters Co., Ltd, the FFIBU heavy duty range emphasizes structural strength, secure dual-lock options, and compound choices—such as high-performance polyurethane—that protect both the caster and the floor.

Quick Selection Tips

• Total Load ÷ Number of Casters = Minimum Required Capacity per Caster

  (Add a 20–30% safety margin above your calculated need.)

• Match the duty level to floor condition, travel distance, and frequency of use, not just static weight.

• When in doubt, consult the technical data provided by experienced manufacturers like China Zhongshan FFIBU Casters Co., Ltd.

Understanding the difference between light, medium, and heavy duty casters helps you specify the right product the first time—reducing downtime, improving safety, and controlling long-term cost. With the FFIBU brand’s complete lineup across all three categories, matching the correct caster to your application becomes a straightforward, confident decision.