Guide to Choosing Caster Wheels for AGV and AMR Systems

October 26, 2026

Stable operation of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) depends heavily on chassis support systems. Caster wheels are a key component of the AGV chassis, and their performance directly affects load capacity, ride stability and steering precision. This analysis examines industrial AGV caster wheels through technical principles, common types and selection logic.

Core functions and technical role

In AGV and AMR systems, caster wheels primarily provide support and auxiliary guidance. Unlike drive wheels or steering wheels, they usually do not supply direct power. Their core value lies in four functions:

Load distribution: balancing vehicle weight and reducing chassis stress concentration through rational wheel-set layout.
Travel stability: keeping the vehicle level on complex floor surfaces and preventing overturning.
Auxiliary steering: reducing steering friction and working with the drive system to achieve smooth path tracking.
Vibration suppression: absorbing floor impacts through structural design to protect onboard electronic components.

These functions make caster selection a structural and safety issue rather than a simple parts choice.

Common caster types and applications

Industrial caster wheels are divided into several main categories based on load requirements and environmental conditions:

Type	Features	Typical applications
Heavy-duty dual-wheel caster	High load capacity, large contact area	Heavy transport equipment, large AGVs
Light-duty rubber caster	Quiet operation, low rolling resistance	Indoor logistics, small AMRs
Shock-absorbing caster	Built-in spring or damping structure	Uneven floors, high-precision loads
Self-leveling swivel caster	Self-leveling design, flexible steering	High-dynamic-response logistics scenarios

Selection recommendations

Choosing caster wheels is not a matter of comparing single-wheel rated load alone. The following factors must be evaluated comprehensively:

Total vehicle weight and load distribution: calculate maximum static and dynamic loads to ensure sufficient wheel-set margin.
Drive configuration: match the layout of drive wheels to avoid mechanical interference or path deviation.
Mounting height: strictly match chassis ground clearance to keep the vehicle level.
Floor conditions: select different tread materials for epoxy flooring, concrete surfaces or outdoor roads.

Industry trends

As industrial automation advances, caster wheels are evolving toward higher load capacity, lower rolling resistance, greater wear resistance and lower noise. Manufacturers are increasingly providing customized wheel-set solutions for different chassis designs, matching actual operating conditions to reduce system maintenance costs and extend service life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can users determine whether a caster wheel's load rating meets requirements?

Do not rely only on the rated load of a single wheel. Calculate the total vehicle weight plus maximum load, apply a safety factor typically recommended at 1.2 to 1.5 times, and distribute the result across the number of wheels. Dynamic impact loads on bearings must also be considered.

What is the difference between shock-absorbing and standard casters during selection?

Shock-absorbing casters are suited to uneven floors or the transport of precision equipment. In addition to load capacity, users should confirm that the working stroke of the damping structure matches chassis height requirements and that spring stiffness fits the load variation range.

How should tread material be selected for floor conditions?

For smooth indoor floors, polyurethane or rubber materials are preferred to balance wear resistance and quiet operation. If the operating environment contains metal chips or chemical corrosion, special compounds with oil resistance and cut resistance should be selected.

Contact Person :	Ms. Yan
Tel :	+8613822773800