Workbench Castors & Quick Release Plates
Australian Wheel & Castors stocks workbench castors and quick-release plates for workshops, garages, and industrial facilities. Workbench castors allow heavy benches to be moved easily and locked firmly in position when stationary. Quick-release plates let you switch between mobile and fixed configurations without tools, lifting the bench off the castors when a stable working surface is needed. Load ratings typically range from 150kg to 500kg per set. All orders ship fast across Australia.
Workbench Castors and Quick Release Plates: Mobile and Stable When You Need It
A workbench that can move freely around a workshop and lock solidly in position is more versatile than one that is fixed or permanently on castors. Workbench castors and quick release plates solve this problem by combining mobility with a stable, vibration-free working surface. This guide explains how each system works and what to check before buying.
How Workbench Castors Work
Workbench castors are heavy duty swivel castors with a total lock brake that engages both the wheel and the swivel simultaneously. When all four brakes are engaged, the bench sits firmly on the castors without rocking or rolling. The brake is typically foot-operated, allowing hands-free engagement. Load ratings for workbench castor sets range from 150kg to 500kg total, depending on the model.
How Quick Release Plates Work
Quick release plates mount permanently to the legs of the workbench. The castor unit clips into the plate and can be removed without tools by pressing a release lever. When the castors are removed, the bench legs sit directly on the floor, providing a completely stable surface with no flex or movement. This is the preferred setup for precision work, grinding, or any task where bench movement would affect the result.
Choosing Between Braked Castors and Quick Release Plates
Braked castors are faster to engage and disengage and suit workshops where the bench is moved frequently. Quick release plates provide a more stable surface because the bench rests on the floor rather than on the castor brackets, eliminating any residual flex in the castor assembly. For benches used for heavy hammering, press work, or precision measurement, quick release plates are the better choice.
Load Rating and Leg Compatibility
Confirm the total load rating of the castor set covers the weight of the bench plus the maximum load it will carry. Check the leg dimensions of your bench against the mounting dimensions of the quick release plate before ordering. Most plates suit square tube legs in standard sizes, but confirm the fit before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between workbench castors and standard heavy duty castors?Workbench castors are specifically designed for bench applications and typically include a total lock brake as standard. They are sold as matched sets of four and are rated for the combined weight of a loaded workbench. Standard heavy duty castors are sold individually and may not include a brake.
Do quick release plates fit all workbench leg sizes?Quick release plates are designed for specific leg dimensions, typically square tube in sizes such as 40mm x 40mm or 50mm x 50mm. Measure your bench leg dimensions before ordering and confirm compatibility with the product specification.
Can I add workbench castors to an existing bench?Yes, provided the bench frame is strong enough to support the castor mounting plates. Plate-mount castors bolt to the underside of the bench leg or frame. Quick release plates weld or bolt to the leg and allow the castor to be attached and removed without tools.
How stable is a workbench on braked castors compared to one on the floor?A bench on braked castors is stable for most workshop tasks but has slightly more flex than a bench sitting directly on the floor. For tasks requiring absolute stability, such as precision measurement or heavy press work, quick release plates that allow the bench to rest on the floor are the better option.
What load rating do I need for a workbench castor set?Add the weight of the bench to the maximum weight of tools, equipment, and materials you will place on it. Select a castor set rated above this total. For a 100kg bench carrying up to 200kg of load, a set rated for 400kg total provides an adequate safety margin.