Digital processes are moving into clouds more rapidly, and as a result, there’s higher demand for technical equipment to support these needs. Seemingly, data centers will continue to grow, adding more server racks in one place. Server rack casters are the best tools for moving these sensitive towers if relocation or growth happens.

In this blog, we’ll briefly cover what these tools are, how to buy them, and which high-quality ones to choose!

What Is a Data Center Caster?

Data centers facilitate an organization’s shared technological operations, equipment storage, processing, and data dissemination and application. Core components include equipment like server racks.

These are open-frame and cabinet-like racks that hold the specific IT equipment. Now, in times of relocation, these racks are mounted on carts or have casters attached on their bottom parts, so they can be easily moved and accessed in tight spaces.

Types of Casters

As there are different types of server racks, there are also different kinds of casters. Technically, the type depends on the maneuverability:

• Rigid Caster: A rigid caster or a fixed caster is the type that can only move or roll forward and backward
• Swivel Caster: This has a raceway that enables the wheels to turn. The raceway is a cylindrical portion of the caster that contains the ball bearing tracks.

How To Buy Server Casters?

When buying a data center server caster, it’s crucial that you choose the appropriate one. In regard to this, here’s three simple steps you must follow when buying:

1. Check for Correct Weight Rating

Server racks are heavy, so it’s essential that the casters are capable of carrying and moving those weights. The weight rating is also called the weight capacity, load capacity, or load rating. There three weight ranges for casters:

• Light Duty: For loads of up to 500 lbs
• Medium Duty: Loads that range from 501 to 2,000 lbs
• Heavy Duty: For weights more than 2,000 lbs

The most common server rack supports up to 600 lbs of internal weight, so you need to look for casters that can handle this load. Remember that the weight capacity of casters are applied to each caster — whether swivel or rigid — and not the whole set of casters.

Additionally, consider the weight of the servers and the cables to the weight of the rack. You can add an extra 33% of the weight for safety. Divide the total weight by the number of casters you like to use on the rack — usually four casters. The final number you land on is the weight rating you should look for in each caster.

2. Buy Correct Type and Number

It’s important to buy the correct type of caster: either swivel or rigid. Swivel casters can rotate 360 degrees while rigid casters are fixed and move only in one direction. A usual server rack has four casters: two swivels and two rigids. The two swivel casters are on the front of the unit to provide maneuverability while the rigids are on the back for directional control.

3. Buy from a Caster Manufacturer

To ensure the caster’s quality, look for manufacturers with expertise on designing and engineering server rack casters. LINCO is an expert in this industry. We’ve produced numerous casters and other equipment useful in this field.

Best Server Casters To Buy

Here are the top three rack casters you should buy for your server racks:

1. LINCO’s Heavy Duty Caster for Electronic Enclosures

LINCO’s original Heavy Duty Caster has a maximum load capacity of 1000 lbs. It’s a swivel type with no brakes and non-marking wheels. It’s finish is zinc with wheel diameter of 3.00” of nylon type.

2. Blickle Low Profile Swivel Caster

This is a light duty swivel type caster with top plate fitting. The Blickle Low Profile Caster has no brakes but has non-marking wheels. It has a wheel diameter of 1 and 3/8" and can carry over 220 lbs.

3. LINCO’s High Capacity Low Profile Business Machine Caster

This High Capacity Low Profile Caster has a wheel diameter of 3.00” and is non-marking. It’s a swivel caster with brakes and a corrosion resistant zinc finish. This is a heavy duty caster that can carry up to 1,200 lbs and is suitable where overall load height is restricted.

Conclusion

In most applications, both rigid and swivel casters are used on server racks. For any type, you can visit our platform and discover different caster products. We offer only high-quality products, so look for what you need without any doubt.