Introducing HYDROTECH: The New Innovative TPE Alloy

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Colson Group USA is excited to introduce their latest innovation: the HydroTech wheel. These water-resistant wheels are essential for industries where water, moisture, and humidity are present. The HydroTech wheel is formulated to withstand continuous exposure to moisture, significantly increasing its life expectancy compared to TPU wheels.

One of the standout features of the HydroTech wheel is its ability to withstand moisture. Many wheels crack, fall apart, or become unusable with continuous exposure to water, but HydroTech’s TPE alloy ensures the wheel maintains its strength and durability, even in wet or humid environments.

Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction that occurs when water molecules break down the chemical bonds in a material. The TPE alloy used in the HydroTech wheel is specifically formulated to resist hydrolysis due to its unique formulation and fusion-bonded construction. This makes it a great choice for a variety of applications, including box stores, medical facilities, and industrial settings.

The HydroTech wheel has the same load capacity and rollability as TPU, making it an ideal choice for applications that require high-performance wheels. It also features a design that prevents tread separation and reduces noise related to mechanical interlock failures, ensuring durability and reliability in tough conditions. With an excellent abrasion-resistant 40D (±5) durometer, this wheel can handle heavy loads and provide smooth, efficient movement.

Businesses that choose HydroTech wheels can be confident that they are investing in a reliable and durable product that is designed to last. The wheel comes with an industry-leading 3-year warranty, making it a top choice for industries that require high-performance wheels that can withstand tough conditions, including moisture and hydrolysis. Contact Colson Group today to learn more about HydroTech wheels and how they can benefit your business.

Colson Group Announces Sale of Colson Brazil Business to Schioppa Casters and Wheels

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Colson Group Announces Sale of Colson Brazil Business to Schioppa Casters and Wheels

OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., May 3, 2023— Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel product solutions, announces their divestiture of Colson Do Brazil to Schioppa Casters and Wheels, the largest caster and wheel manufacturer in Latin America.

“This sale will streamline our global operations and allow us to focus on our core businesses,” said Richard Kobor, CEO of Colson Group. “We would like to thank the entire Colson Brazil team for their efforts in building a strong and prosperous business and wish them all the best for their future.”

In November, 2021 Colson announced an all-employee Equity Ownership Program designed to share our success of increasing the value of the Colson Group. Since that announcement, the value of the Colson Group has increased, due in part to the success and hard work by the Colson Brazil team. Therefore, with this divesture each employee in Brazil, with at least one year of service, will receive a payout from this program, which on average will be slightly less than two months of total compensation.

“Our commitment to share our success with the employees at Colson Brazil reinforces our belief that our employees make our company what it is, and we want all of them to share in our success”, Mr. Kobor concluded.

“We are excited to welcome the Colson Brazil business to the Schioppa Casters and Wheels family,” said Mario Schioppa, CEO of Schioppa Casters and Wheels.

About Colson Group

Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and proprietary global value chain delivery unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success.

About Schioppa Casters and Wheels

Schioppa is globally positioned to meet the world’s caster and wheel requirements. Schioppa has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility where dedicated engineering and manufacturing teams create some of the world’s finest casters.

5 Caster Brakes and Their Best Applications

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Caster brakes provide stability and control when moving heavy loads, ensuring that they remain stationary when necessary. There are several types of caster brakes available, each designed to serve a specific purpose. The brake that’s best for you depends on the type of caster and application. In this blog post, we will explore the various types of caster brakes and their uses.

Total Lock Brake

Total lock brakes lock both the swivel and the wheel of the caster, providing the highest level of stability and control. These brakes are commonly used in medical equipment, furniture, and machinery that require complete stability. Total lock brakes are especially useful when transporting fragile or sensitive items that require careful handling.

Directional Lock Brake

Directional lock brakes lock only the swivel of the caster, allowing the wheel to rotate freely. These brakes are commonly used in machinery and equipment that require controlled movement in a specific direction. Directional lock brakes are especially useful when maneuvering heavy loads in tight spaces or when working with sensitive materials.

Side Lock Brake

Side lock brakes lock the wheel of the caster, providing stability and control when moving heavy loads. These brakes are commonly used in industrial equipment, such as dollies, carts, and material handling equipment. Side lock brakes are especially useful when working with heavy loads that require precise positioning and stability.

Face Brake

Face brakes apply pressure to the wheel, locking it in place when necessary. These brakes are commonly used in machinery and equipment that require precise positioning and stability. Face brakes are especially useful when working with delicate or sensitive materials that require careful handling.

Top Lock Brake

Top lock brakes apply pressure to the top of the wheel which creates friction and prevents the wheel from moving. This brake provides stability and control when moving heavy loads. These brakes are commonly used in industrial equipment, such as dollies, carts, and material handling equipment. Top lock brakes are especially useful when working with heavy loads that require precise positioning and stability.

Caster brakes are a key component of many types of equipment and machinery, providing stability and control when moving heavy loads. There are several types of caster brakes available, each designed to serve a specific purpose. Understanding the different types of caster brakes and their uses can help you choose the best brake for your equipment or machinery. If you’re in need of new casters or brakes and have questions about what’s right for you, get in contact with Colson Group today by visiting our contact page.

4 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Casters

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In the busy world of your business, casters play an important role in meeting the needs of your customers. Is your equipment not functioning as well as it used to? Do you know whether the casters you use are functioning ergonomically? Let’s look into 4 signs you can watch for that tell you it’s time to replace your casters.

Noise Issues

If you’ve noticed your casters are making loud noises whenever they move, this could be a sign that they need to be replaced. Not having the right wheel tread can cause debris to build up which can result in increased resistance, damage your floors, and create unwanted noise. Noise could be caused by a failure of the ball bearings or the use of incorrect caster wheels. To avoid these noise issues, it’s important to pick a caster that is built for your line of work.

Hard to Move

Has it become more difficult to push your equipment? If you notice resistance to push and pull the equipment manually, it may be time to upgrade the casters and wheels. If you’ve tried applying grease but it hasn’t helped, a replacement may be necessary. If your casters are putting employees at risk of overexertion injuries, it may be good for you to consider investing in a more ergonomic caster.

Corrosion

It’s important to monitor the condition of your casters in case signs of corrosion occur. If you see rust, it’s time to act fast and address it. Corrosion occurs in many environments, but more frequently in environments with chemical exposure and moisture. Read our blog post about preventing corrosion in your casters to learn how you can stop corrosion from occurring before it happens.

Damage

There are many ways a caster can get damaged. Improper use can easily damage the caster due to using the caster in a manner it was not intended to. Overloading the equipment can result in too much strain and can cause damage to your equipment. Damage to the floor such as cuts, scratches, or chips could mean that your caster wheel is damaged or that you are not using the correct one for the job. Check your wheel and casters regularly to look for any noticeable damage like dents or loose pieces.

A functional and well-maintained caster will allow your equipment to operate at its best. This allows workers to do their jobs more efficiently and in a timelier manner. Choosing the right caster is unique to your business. If you are having issues with ergonomics, noise, corrosion, damage, or just figuring out which caster is best for your application, get in contact with Colson Group to find the right solution for you.

Toe Guard Protection

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In the business of day-to-day workplace operations, it’s easy for an employee to have a foot injury due to a heavy cart rolling over a foot.  Heavy carts and wheels can cause serious injuries, but with the help of toe guards this can be prevented.

What Are Toe Guards

Toe guards are a safety accessory that are added to a caster to minimize the risk of injury to the toes, heels, and feet. Toe guards can be made from a variety of different materials including plastic or steel and come in a variety of sizes and styles to accommodate different size casters. Casters can be equipped with integral factory installed toe guards or can be installed on existing casters in the field. Toe guards are normally mounted around ½ inch off the floor but can be customized to different heights to fit any application if needed. Toe guards allow the caster to spin freely and the wheel to move within the toe guard without interfering with its movement.

How Do Toe Guards Work

There are different types and designs of toe guards, but their end goal is always to create a cage like barrier around casters that prevents the caster from rolling over objects. Toe guards help to prevent injuries because instead of rolling over your toes, the toes just bump into the toe guard attached to the caster.

Albion Field Installable Toe Guards

If your workplace rolls heavy objects around, toe guards may be a great option for you. Albion’s field installable toe guards are easy to install and there’s no drilling or modification needed to fit existing casters. The guards are available on various wheel diameters and tread widths, making it easy for you to find the perfect guard for your application. Albion’s field installable toe guards are sold as a kit with everything you need for an easy installation, making the installation process simple.

Toe Guards are an important safety feature that can help prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. Albion’s Toe Guards are easy to install, no drilling or tapping required, and provide a simple and effective way to improve the safety and performance of your casters. If you want to learn more about the toe guard selection at Colson Group, get in contact today and we’ll find the right solution for you.

Selecting a Heavy Duty Caster

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When it comes to transporting heavy loads, having the right heavy duty equipment is essential. Heavy duty casters are a critical part of many industrial and commercial applications, providing a reliable and efficient means of moving heavy items. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at heavy duty casters, uses, and what to look for when choosing the right caster for your application.

What are Heavy Duty Casters

Heavy duty casters are designed for use in both industrial and commercial settings where heavy loads need to be moved quickly and efficiently. These casters are made from high-quality, durable materials designed to withstand significant loads without breaking or wearing out over time.

Various heavy duty casters are available to fit every application from single wheel swivel and rigid casters, to dual wheel casters for high capacity applications and spring loaded for when protection of equipment is important. Swivel casters are designed to rotate 360 degrees, allowing for easy maneuvering in tight spaces, while rigid casters are fixed in place, providing stability and support for heavier loads. Additional accessories such as swivel lock brakes and toe guards can be added to fit all of your caster needs.

Uses of Heavy Duty Casters

 Heavy duty casters are used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including:

  1. Manufacturing: Heavy duty casters are used to transport heavy equipment, machinery, and raw materials in manufacturing facilities.
  2. Aviation: Heavy duty casters are used to move aircraft and airport equipment, such as baggage carts, fuel tanks, and maintenance equipment.
  3. Warehousing: Heavy duty casters are used to transport large and heavy items, such as pallets, in warehouses and distribution centers.
  4. Automotive: Heavy duty casters are used to transport vehicles in automotive manufacturing and repair facilities.

Choosing the Right Heavy Duty Caster

 When choosing a heavy duty caster, there are several factors to consider. These include:

  1. Load Capacity: A caster will need to be selected that can handle the total weight of the loaded cart. To determine the weight of the caster and the number of casters being used, the capacity needs of the caster is determined by dividing the weight of the loaded cart by one less of the casters used to provide additional safety on uneven floors. For example, if the total cart weight is 1,000 pounds and 4 casters will be used, you’d do 1000/3 = 334 pounds per caster is needed.
  2. Wheel Material: The wheel material should be chosen based on the application. Capacity, temperature, and floor surface are all important when choosing a wheel.
  3. Bearing Type: The bearing type should be chosen based on the speed and frequency of use.
  4. Brake Type: The brake type should be chosen based on the application, such as if the caster will be used on a slope or mainly stationary use.
  5. Swivel vs. Rigid: The choice between a swivel or rigid caster depends on the application. Swivel casters are best for maneuverability, while rigid caster provide greater stability and support for heavier loads.

In conclusion, heavy duty casters are an essential tool for moving heavy items in industrial or commercial settings. When choosing a caster, it’s important to consider that the caster is suitable for your application. A popular heavy duty caster is Albion Maintenance Free casters which offer a best-in-class experience for no hassle casters and provide a long-lasting solution to meet your needs.

With the right caster, you can improve efficiency, safety, and productivity in your workplace. If you need help choosing the best caster for your application, get in contact with Colson Group today and we’ll help you find the right solution.

Colson Group Acquires Finnish Caster Manufacturer Manner

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OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., February 8th, 2023— Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel product solutions, announces their acquisition of Manner, a Hanko-based caster manufacturer.

“We are excited to be joining Colson Group, the largest manufacturer and distributor of caster and wheel products in the world,” said Tapio Manner, Chairman of the Board. “Since my family started Manner over 130 years ago, we have grown to become the leading caster manufacturer in the Nordic countries, with a reputation for quality and reliable service to our long-standing customers. I am confident that together with Colson Group, a company that shares our values and commitment to excellence, Manner will continue its long tradition of outstanding production in Hanko for many years to come.”

Manner is a Finnish company that specializes in the design, manufacturing and marketing of casters and caster solutions. Manner is a market leader in the design and manufacturing of more than 2,000 different casters for a variety of applications. Manner’s range includes equipment casters, medical casters, and casters for applications in logistics and in industry.

“We are pleased to have found a trusted partner in Colson Group, with its own long history of business excellence,” said Jukka Immonen, Managing Director of Manner. “I look forward to continuing Manner’s legacy of strong performance and unparalleled commitment to its customers, suppliers and employees.”

“Under the leadership and care of the Manner family, Manner has earned a reputation and track record of quality and reliability, as a leader in the design and manufacture of medical casters,” said Richard Kobor, CEO of Colson Group. “We are proud to welcome Manner to the Colson Group and to support the company’s longstanding leading position in the Nordic region. Across the world, Colson Group’s portfolio brands and products are known for their quality, safety, and innovation, and Manner will continue to excel under our new partnership.”

About Manner
Manner is a traditional family-owned company founded in 1890. Manner has over 80 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of a variety of caster products. The first Manner casters were manufactured in the 1930s, and since 1974, the company has focused exclusively on caster products. Today Manner’s products are used worldwide in demanding environments where quality, reliability and design are required.

About Colson Group
Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and proprietary global value chain delivery unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success.

Why Are Ergonomic Casters Important

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A lot of people don’t think twice about the kind of casters they use as long as they work. However, ergonomics is crucial to many caster and wheel applications. By utilizing ergonomic casters, your business, your workers, and your wallet can benefit tremendously.

 

What Are Ergonomic Casters

Ergonomics is defined as the science of designing things that people use to make them as safe and effective as possible. In the case of caster ergonomics, it refers to the force required in pushing and pulling a cart. Ergonomic casters are designed to be as efficient as possible by reducing the amount of force required in the start or maintain rolling process of the cart. This is especially important in warehouses or plants where operators push, pull or tug carts every day.

Safer Work Environments

The easier a cart is to use; the less likely injury is. Poor ergonomics can create dangerous work environments because workers are exerting more force, fatiguing more quickly, and becoming more susceptible to injury. Injuries may be caused by excessive stress to the wrists, arms, back or shoulders. Treating workplace injuries can be very costly and the money saved from reducing your potential injury costs can be huge. When employees aren’t injured, they’re working, and that means less downtime and increased productivity.

Higher Productivity

When an application is more easily moved, employees can move it quickly and with less energy exerted. Push, pull, and towed movements are completed faster instead of slowing down as workers tire of strenuous motions. Providing your employees with an ergonomic caster makes the job easier, more enjoyable, and more productive.

Long Term Cost Savings

Often, ergonomic casters come with a slightly higher price tag than their less ergonomic counterparts. But consider that over time the ergonomic advantages will pay for themselves by bringing new efficiencies into your business and having a longer life. Like with the Albion 28 and 38 Series Casters which are designed for improved ergonomics, long life, and quiet mobility. These casters have a 5-year warranty to back their durability and long-lasting quality.

 

Casters vary in quality and their ability to improve ergonomics. Many qualities make up an ergonomic caster such as swivel lead, the wheel type and size, and bearings. But you don’t need to be an expert at identifying an ergonomic caster for your application, let the experts at Colson Group do it for you.

Contact Colson Group today to learn more about our selection of ergonomic caster options that can provide you with a more productive and cost-effective workplace. Colson Group offers a variety of casters and wheels to help you achieve ergonomic efficiency and provide safer work environments, higher productivity, and long-term cost savings.

How Maintenance Free Casters Mean Less Work for You

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No one enjoys spending time and money on maintenance. Many businesses can’t afford to have downtime when a caster isn’t working properly, don’t have the ability to perform regular maintenance on equipment, and need a caster that’s able to withstand tough work environments. It’s in these scenarios maintenance free casters thrive and can provide your business with immense cost saving benefits.

In the industrial caster industry, the term “maintenance free” refers to casters that have a sealed precision ball bearing. The sealed precision bearing makes it so the casters never require a preventative maintenance schedule, which reduces downtime and increases efficiency. These bearings are sealed to keep grease locked in, while keeping contamination out.

Standard casters can last many years with proper maintenance and consistent greasing, the issue at hand is that many facilities don’t have a good maintenance program put in place for wheels and casters. Maintenance free casters eliminates this problem as there is no need for routine maintenance. Maintenance Free casters are designed to be ergonomic, meaning they require minimal start force to be set in motion. For workers, ease of use helps to prevent employee injuries.

Maintenance-free casters are designed for harsh industrial environments and have a long service life. The consistent performance of these casters makes a great choice for industries like automotive, warehousing, tow-lines, AGV’s, Hospitals and more. The new Albion brand launch of Maintenance Free 28 and 38 Series casters are designed for improved ergonomics, long life, and quiet mobility. They also feature wheel options such as polyurethane, rubber, and nylon, to fit your specific hand push or towing requirements.

Colson Group is the global leader and distributor of wheels and casters. Colson Group always wants to continue to innovate and develop products with unparalleled performance and quality that meet our customers’ needs. Reduce your replacement costs and injuries, all while enhancing your manufacturing efficiency with maintenance free casters.

Learn more about our maintenance free casters and their cost saving benefits by getting in contact with us today.

Colson Group Launches New Regent High Volume Program

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OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., December 9th, 2022— Colson Group, the leader in caster and wheel products, announces the launch of their Shepherd brand Regent High Volume program. Customers are now able to have Regent High Volume orders shipped within 2 weeks following the purchase.

Customers can order any combination of wheels and casters up to 10,000 at a time through the new 2-week High Volume program. Multiple fastenings and wheel types exist for the Regent series, providing customers with great flexibility of both style and usage. This new program gives customers a competitive edge in a world where fast shipping is essential to business.

“Colson Group has made a significant investment in inventory as well as modern robotic assembly equipment to leverage our ability to fill large orders in 10 days with high quality products proudly made in the USA” said Brian Crain, Colson Group Product Manager.

Shepherd Regent casters are USA-made with steel rigs for increased strength and durability. These casters have RoHS compliant zinc plating for corrosion resistance and are great for many applications, including in industries like medical, food service, office, janitorial and more.

With all the Regent caster variations and applications, you’ll be sure to find the perfect caster for your business. Ensure that you receive the best quality, value, and delivery for your mobility needs with the Shepherd Regent High Volume program.

Speed up your high-volume orders with the industry leading Regent selection. Learn more about the new Regent High Volume program by getting in contact with Colson Group today.

About Colson Group: Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands, such as Shepherd, provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and global value chain deliver unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success, ensuring proper products are selected or designed from the start, and always keeping the end-users’ safety, efficiency, and happiness in mind.