Sanitation is on of the most important factors in any medical setting. When the potential for contamination exists, everything from surfaces and equipment to the carts and caster wheels that move them have to maintain some level of sterility. That’s why stainless steel is the go-to material in labs and medical facilities.
Why Does the Material of Casters Make a Difference?
Unlike rubber or other soft materials, stainless steel allow medical environments to comply with industry standards. That mean any dirt or debris picked up in-transit won’t be transferred to sensitive areas and lead to contamination. The material offers other benefits that are specific to medical and other facilities where these standards are needed.
Stainless Steel in Non-Corrosive
Steel is known for its natural durability of steel and pleasing aesthetics. It’s also highly resistant to fire and corrosion. It is impervious to oxidation at high temperatures, which can weaken lesser metals. Depending on the alloy materials and ratios, it also stands up to elements in wet, chlorine, acidic, and alkaline environments.
Stainless Doesn’t Interfere With Equipment Performance
Stainless is one of the view metals that can retain strength at almost any thickness, which makes it versatile. In laboratory settings, it’s non-magnetic properties mean that it won’t interfere with radiology equipment, CT scanners and other pieces of equipment that use imaging technology.
Types of Stainless Casters
These accessories may be versatile, it’s still important to get the right model for the job. Common features to look for include:
* Polished surface to better resist corrosion, nicks and stains
* Solid stainless construction that includes caster surface, bushings and axles
* Double ball raceways to support greater durability, stability and performance
* Constructed to stand up in hostile environments
In addition to those specification, it’s important to consider environment-specific features like top plates, locking mechanisms and solid stainless casters for extreme conditions.
Wheels may seem like an insignificant thing. But when even a speck of dust can invaidate lab results or contaminate processes, every safeguard is within bounds.
