Wheel Materials vs. Chemical Compatibility Guide
Casters and Wheels need to operate in a wide range of environments. Chemical exposure can greatly reduce the lifespan of certain materials so it's essential to pick the right wheel materials as compared to the chemical environments those wheels will be exposed to. Use our guide to see what wheels best fit your application. As always if you have any questions give us a call or contact us.
Wheel Materials vs. Chemical Compatibility Guide
Casters and Wheels need to operate in a wide range of environments. Chemical exposure can greatly reduce the lifespan of certain materials so it's essential to pick the right wheel materials as compared to the chemical environments those wheels will be exposed to. Use our guide to see what wheels best fit your application. As always if you have any questions give us a call or contact us.
Ammonium Hydroxide
NH₄OH
Ammonium Hydroxide Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: NH₄OH
Physical Properties: Ammonium hydroxide is a colorless aqueous solution with a pungent ammonia odor. It has a density of ~0.9 g/cm³ (for 28-30% solution), a boiling point of ~38°C, and is highly alkaline. It is corrosive to some metals. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Ammonium hydroxide is used in cleaning agents, fertilizers, and chemical manufacturing. It is common in industrial cleaning and food processing, with caster wheels exposed during spills or cleaning operations.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Polyurethane on Aluminum Core, and Nylon are highly resistant to ammonium hydroxide. Nylon Glass Filled is also suitable.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid Ductile Cast Iron, Forged Steel, and V-Grooved Iron due to corrosion risks.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Corrodes due to alkalinity; unsuitable. | D |
| Elastomer | Good resistance; minimal effect. | B |
| Forged Steel | Corrosion likely; not recommended. | D |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene resists; nylon core stable. | B |
| Nylon | Excellent resistance; chemically stable. | A |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Highly resistant; no degradation. | A |
| Phenolic | Good resistance; slight absorption possible. | B |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Highly resistant; aluminum unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane resists; iron core may corrode. | C |
| Rubber | Good resistance; slight softening possible. | B |
| Solid Elastomer | Good resistance; minimal effect. | B |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Moderate resistance; some softening. | C |
| Urethane | Good resistance; chemically stable. | B |
| V-Grooved Iron | Corrodes; unsuitable for alkaline exposure. | D |
Conclusion
Ammonium hydroxide is alkaline and corrosive to metals. Polyolefin, Nylon, and Polyurethane on Aluminum Core are the best choices, while metal-based wheels like Ductile Cast Iron should be avoided. For more information, contact us at CasterTech.