Gate wheels are small but play a big role in an automated gate opener system. These are the gate hardware responsible for the smooth function of gates in different conditions. Sliding gate wheels are an essential component of a slide gate system. A swing gate may sometimes require gate wheels if the gate frame and gate hinges are not sturdy enough for support.
Gate Wheel and Caster Solutions
A gate wheel is a simple machine that guides the gate and lessens the effort needed to move it. However, for the wheels to roll, they need an attachment called a gate caster.
Gate casters are typically metal frames with axles and brackets for fastening the wheel. They are connected to the gate frame, and this allows the wheels to roll when force is applied. They are also used for furniture casters, toolbox casters, and other applications but have floor locks to contain their motion.
Types of Gate Wheels
The right gate wheel maintains the gate balance and prevents gate sag.
Gate wheels can have single or double bearings. Double-bearing wheels have two bearings, often sealed bearings, placed side by side to help improve the wheel's stability and strength.
V Groove Wheels
V groove wheels are designed for sliding gate operators. They have a V-shape indentation on its surface that fits and slides efficiently in a V-groove sliding gate track.
U Groove Wheels
U-groove sliding gate wheels are great for lighter sliding gates. They utilize a U-shape sliding track to provide support and stability. U-groove wheels with light-duty casters are used for various applications like lift guides and gate and door rollers.
Round Groove Wheels
Round grooves or O-groove wheels roll in a smooth and precise motion and are used in gates with round tube gates and tracks.
Cantilever Wheels
The cantilever wheels don’t use a ground track and are used in locations with gravel or uneven driveways. Cantilever gate wheels can be malleable or nylon roller that glides easily on an overhead guide roller or track.
Gate Wheel and Caster Materials
Gate wheels are made of different materials to ensure their compatibility and durability in handling different gates.
- Nylon gate wheels are inexpensive, corrosion-resistant wheels with low friction properties.
- Steel gate wheels are designed for heavy gates in industrial and commercial gates such as chain links. Stainless steel casters are valued for their strength and durability.
- Rubber-coated gate wheels are reinforced with a rubber coating. A rubber wheel produces less noise and good traction and gate track protection.
- Cast iron casters are long-wearing and abrasion-resistant caster wheels built to withstand extreme heat.
Gate Caster Mechanisms
Innovative gate wheels have different mechanisms and components to improve their performance.
- Pneumatic Casters. These are gate wheels filled with compressed air and are attached to a sturdy gate caster for good weight support and better shock absorption.
- Spring-loaded gate casters. A suspension system enables the wheel to move up or down its housing. Spring loaded casters are ideal for uneven ground and tracks to ensure ground contact and work best with swing gate openers.
- Adjustable wheels. Also called leveling casters, these are flexible and can be adjusted to fit the gate alignment and weight.
Ordering Gate Wheels and Casters
Improve the way your swing or slide gate operator and remote controls work. Order heavy-duty gate wheels and casters at All Security Equipment. Our dependable gate wheel ensures the durability, efficiency and longevity of the gate system.
Call us today for your orders and inquiries.