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.
Benzene
C₆H₆
Benzene Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: C₆H₆
Physical Properties: Benzene is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet odor. It has a density of 0.88 g/cm³, a boiling point of 80.1°C, and is slightly soluble in water. It is a known carcinogen and solvent. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Benzene is used in chemical synthesis, as a solvent, and in the production of plastics, resins, and dyes. Caster wheels may be exposed in chemical plants or during transport of benzene-containing materials.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin and Nylon Glass Filled are highly resistant to benzene. Ductile Cast Iron and Forged Steel are also suitable.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid Rubber, Thermoplastic Rubber, and Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core due to swelling or dissolution.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Resistant; no significant interaction. | A |
| Elastomer | Swelling and softening; unsuitable. | D |
| Forged Steel | Highly resistant; no degradation. | A |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene dissolves; nylon core resists but overall poor. | D |
| Nylon | Good resistance; slight solvent absorption. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Excellent resistance; highly stable. | A |
| Phenolic | Moderate resistance; some softening. | C |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Moderate resistance; some softening possible. | C |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane may soften; iron core unaffected. | C |
| Rubber | Swelling and dissolution; unsuitable. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Swelling; poor performance. | D |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Significant swelling; rapid degradation. | D |
| Urethane | Moderate resistance; some softening. | C |
| V-Grooved Iron | Resistant; no significant interaction. | A |
Conclusion
Benzene is a strong solvent, and Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and metal-based wheels like Ductile Cast Iron are ideal. Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber due to severe degradation. For more details, contact us at CasterTech.