Maximum resistance for demanding logistics applications

As a specialist, Hupfer supports hospitals and clinics in optimising their logistics processes. Customised products ensure smooth processes for sorting, packing, organising, transporting, storing and distributing sterile goods.

The demanding conditions in which Hupfer's products are used require maximum reliability and durability. Sterile goods and other transport trolleys must be regularly cleaned at 90 degrees Celsius in container washing systems - often using aggressive cleaning agents. Standard casters quickly reach their limits here: wet linings reduce the braking force, inferior stainless steels corrode, ball bearing greases are washed out by cleaning processes.

Blickle developed special casters that fulfil the high requirements. The housing has a slewing ring seal that also serves as a ball cage. Instead of the standard market balls in the bearing, balls of grade 1.4301/AISI 304 are used, which are highly resistant to corrosion. Ball bearing covers with abrasive rubber sealing rings provide additional protection against water jets. The particularly compact Ideal-Stop hold-open device takes up hardly any height and ensures a secure hold. Thanks to the specially moulded plastic element moulded onto the brake spring, the hold-open device also serves as a puller in wet areas. In combination with the rubber pad, this achieves high locking forces even in wet conditions. An additional stainless and easy-to-operate directional locking device fixes the swivelling movement of the caster for long straight-ahead travel.

Hupfer is more than satisfied with the Blickle solution. The new casters offer numerous advantages. The rolling resistance is less than 1.2 per cent, which makes handling easier and improves ergonomics. The thick and soft POEV cushion dampens and enables almost silent transport, which is particularly important in kitchens and hospitals. The grey tread leaves no streaks on the floor. The casters are temperature and corrosion resistant, even when cleaned with high temperatures and aggressive agents. They are also robust and low-maintenance, which saves costs in the long term.

Blickle's customised casters set standards in food distribution and sterile goods logistics. Hupfer benefits from a solution that not only fulfils the high hygiene requirements, but also improves the efficiency and longevity of its products.