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ABOUT

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A caster is a wheel assembly attached to an object to enable smooth rolling and easy movement.

 

The assembly includes a wheel mounted within a frame (often called a yoke or rig), and a method for fastening it to whatever you plan on moving.

SOME EXAMPLES:

SINGLE WHEEL
(TOP PLATE RIGID)

Fixed frame - will only move
in a straight line.

DUAL WHEEL
(TOP PLATE SWIVEL)

Rotating frame allowing
for 360º movement.

STEM
(SWIVEL)

Threaded stem allowing 
for 360º movement.

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A circular frame or layer of material that may be solid, partly solid, molded, and/or tooled that is capable of turning on an axle.

SOME EXAMPLES:

CASTER

A caster wheel is a wheel designed to be mounted within a caster assembly, allowing equipment or carts to move smoothly and efficiently. Often, the bearing is reduced to support a common axle via a spanner bushing or top hats. It supports the load while enabling controlled rolling, helping improve mobility, handling, and overall performance.

DRIVE

A drive wheel is a powered wheel that moves equipment forward, backward, or along a set path. Commonly used in automated or motorized systems, it delivers controlled motion and traction to keep operations moving efficiently.

GUIDE

A guide roller helps direct, stabilize, or align equipment as it moves. Rather than carrying the primary load, it supports smooth tracking, reduces friction, and helps maintain consistent movement along rails, tracks, or surfaces.

LOAD

A load wheel is built to carry weight and provide stable, reliable support for moving equipment. Often, the axle or shaft rides directly on the bearings or bore.  It plays a key role in distributing load evenly and ensuring smooth movement, even under demanding conditions.

COMMON TERMS

WHEEL DIAMETER
The straight-line measurement across the circular portion of a wheel, from one side to the other.

TREAD WIDTH

The width of the wheel’s rolling surface that bears the load and provides traction.

BORE DIAMETER

The internal diameter of a wheel’s center hole, designed to fit onto an axle or shaft.

HUB LENGTH

The measurement of
the wheel’s mounting section, from one hub edge to the opposite edge along the bore.

OVERALL HEIGHT
The total distance from the bottom of the wheel to the top of the caster or mounting plate.

SWIVEL LEAD

The distance between
he center of the caster’s top plate (or mounting point) and the center
of the wheel’s axle.

TOP PLATE
A flat, sturdy plate on
the top of a caster that provides a secure mounting point
for installation.

STEM MOUNT
The cylindrical or threaded post on a caster that inserts into a socket or mounting hole to attach the caster to equipment.

LOAD CAPACITY
The amount of weight a wheel or caster can handle while maintaining safe and smooth operation.

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WHY ACORN

Acorn Industrial Products Co. is the industry leader and supplier of choice for all customers who need more than an off-the-shelf solution.
Our extensive engineering and design experience, vertically integrated manufacturing and fabrication, and a proven record in demanding applications -
we deliver casters and wheels that are manufactured for real-world loads, environments, and cycles.

 

From custom designs to consistent quality to extremely responsive customer support, we want to help you solve your problems,
reduce your downtime, and give you the best in-class ergonomic options for your applications.

 

It’s simple: when your equipment is riding on Acorn casters, you won’t have to worry.

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BEGINNINGS

Founded in 1957 by Robert Lombard, Acorn Industrial Products Co. began as a distributor and supplier of hand tools and metalworking equipment,
built on a commitment to quality and service.

 

In the 1980s, Acorn expanded into the world of casters and wheels, which eventually led to in-house manufacturing and fabrication in the early 2000s.

 

As the company grew from the 2000s through 2025, Acorn expanded its capabilities to specialize in heavy-duty, custom-engineered solutions.
This growth included an expansion of manufacturing and warehousing space in 2000. With the third generation of the Lombard family joining in 2020, Acorn Industrial Products continues to strive to fulfill the demands of an ever-growing American manufacturing footprint.

INDUSTRIES SERVED

Acorn Industrial Products provides specialized casters and wheels for a variety of industries.

Tailored solutions include autoclavable casters for aerospace,
Vulkollan wheels for automotive lines,
and stainless steel options for healthcare –
ensuring reliable performance across diverse applications.

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AEROSPACE
& AVIATION

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HEALTHCARE
 

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AUTOMOTIVE
 

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INSTITUTIONAL
 

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ENTERTAINMENT
 

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MANUFACTURING
 

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FABRICATION
 

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MATERIAL HANDLING

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FOOD SERVICE
& PROCESSING

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PHARMACEUTICAL
 

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GLASS HANDLING
 

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SHIPBUILDING
 

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RESOURCES

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