INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Swivel Fork

Swivel fork is the rotating component in furniture casters that enables 360-degree directional movement.

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Component Specifications

Definition
A swivel fork is the structural component of a furniture caster assembly that connects the wheel to the mounting plate or stem. It contains a swivel bearing mechanism that allows the wheel to rotate freely around a vertical axis while supporting the load. This component is essential for providing omnidirectional mobility to furniture pieces, enabling smooth movement in any direction without requiring the entire piece to be turned.
Working Principle
The swivel fork operates on a bearing-based rotation principle. It contains a raceway with ball bearings between the fork's upper mounting section and lower wheel axle section. When lateral force is applied to the furniture, the bearings allow the fork to rotate around the vertical axis while maintaining load capacity. This separates the wheel's rolling motion (horizontal axis) from the caster's directional change (vertical axis), enabling true omnidirectional movement.
Materials
Typically made from stamped or forged steel (SAE 1010-1020), zinc alloy (Zamak), or engineered plastics (polyamide, polypropylene). High-end versions may use stainless steel (304/316) or aluminum alloys for corrosion resistance. Bearing components are usually carbon steel or stainless steel balls with brass or polymer retainers.
Technical Parameters
  • Fork Width 25-45 mm
  • Bearing Type Ball bearing, roller bearing, or plain bearing
  • Load Capacity 25-150 kg per caster
  • Rotation Angle 360° continuous
  • Mounting Height 40-80 mm
  • Rotation Torque 0.5-3.0 Nm
  • Wheel Bore Size 8-12 mm standard
Standards
ISO 9001, DIN 15171, ANSI/BIFMA X5.1

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Swivel Fork.

swivel fork caster component furniture hardware rotating mechanism bearing fork omnidirectional caster industrial casters furniture mobility Swivel Fork in Furniture Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Furniture Caster

Swiveling wheel assembly for furniture mobility

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Bearing seizure due to contamination
  • Fork deformation under overload
  • Fatigue failure at stress points
  • Corrosion in humid environments
  • Thread stripping in mounting holes
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Contamination entering bearing raceway
Failure: Increased rotation torque leading to seizure
Mitigation: Use sealed bearings, implement protective covers, regular cleaning protocols
Trigger: Exceeding rated load capacity
Failure: Fork deformation or fracture
Mitigation: Clear load rating labeling, design with safety factor of 2-3x, use higher grade materials
Trigger: Corrosive environment exposure
Failure: Material degradation and bearing failure
Mitigation: Select corrosion-resistant materials (stainless steel, zinc plating), apply protective coatings

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
±0.2 mm on critical dimensions, bearing raceway roundness within 0.05 mm
Test Method
ASTM F1487 for load testing, rotation torque measured per ANSI/BIFMA standards, salt spray testing per ASTM B117 for corrosion resistance

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

Related Components

Wheel
A furniture caster wheel is a swiveling wheel assembly that enables smooth movement and positioning of furniture items.
Ball Bearing
A precision ball bearing component used in furniture casters to reduce friction and enable smooth rolling motion.
Cup Arm
A mechanical component in furniture hinges that connects the hinge cup to the mounting plate, enabling controlled door movement.
Adjustment Screws
Adjustment screws are precision fasteners used in furniture hinges to fine-tune door or panel alignment, ensuring proper fit and smooth operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a swivel fork and a rigid fork in casters?

A swivel fork allows 360-degree rotation for omnidirectional movement, while a rigid fork is fixed and only allows forward/backward movement. Swivel forks contain bearing mechanisms that rigid forks lack.

How do I maintain a swivel fork mechanism?

Regular cleaning to remove debris, periodic lubrication of bearing surfaces (if not sealed), and inspection for wear in the raceway or bearing components. Sealed bearings typically require no maintenance.

Can swivel forks be replaced separately from the entire caster?

Yes, most quality casters allow swivel fork replacement. However, compatibility with the wheel axle and mounting system must be verified. Some budget casters have integrated designs requiring full unit replacement.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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