What happens when you need a part, but it doesn’t exist? Create one. That was the solution CasterDepot proposed to a drug manufacturing company, and it led to the creation of a one-of-a-kind accessory known as “brake guards.”

The purpose of the guards is to protect the gap between the rig and the brake. Made from a durable polymer material, the guards attach on to predrilled holes on the caster’s fork.

Why brake guards? A drug manufacturing company approached CasterDepot with the following problem: pills would fall off their application and into the gap that the brake guards now protect. Over time, the pills would clog the wheels and brakes. So instead of ordering all new casters, CasterDepot offered this solution as a cost-effective alternative, even though brake guards didn’t exist at that time.

With a quick 3D print prototype, this accessory is custom built to order, and the casters arrive with the guards already installed. The polymer material also ensures durability–the guards do not need to be replaced over the life of the caster.

In just a short period of time, the drug manufacturer now uses the brake guards on all their casters. A simple solution that involves polymer, engineering, and just a little bit of creativity.