History. Wheels installed three years ago--3000 km of use. Wheels routinely rotated to even the wear. Bearing cleaning and was performed as needed. Along with general condition of skates and brake pad, wheels visually and physically checked for security and roll before every skate ride.
Findings: One wheel was removed due to failure on 18-August-2015. Of the seven remaining wheels, five were unserviceable due to cracks (see pics 16). Bearings turned freely.
Problem: Front skate outer wheel broke loose from its bearing hub, causing wheel to lock in frame during operation at 20 km per hour.
Cause: Wheel spokes cracked during normal use, and not detected prior to a weekly skate ride. Although the skater performed a visual and physical check of skates before each ride, reading glasses were not used. A specific inspection for cracks was not performed.
Impact: Skater incurred bruised ribs, sports activities suspended for six weeks.
Corrective action: After each ride and using corrective lenses or other magnification if needed, inspect wheels for cracks in spokes and hubs, replacing wheels if necessary before the next ride.
