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.
Carbon Dioxide
CO₂
Carbon Dioxide Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: CO₂
Physical Properties: Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature, with a density of 1.98 g/L at 0°C. It can form a weak acid (carbonic acid) when dissolved in water. It is non-flammable and relatively inert. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Carbon dioxide is used in food and beverage processing (carbonation), fire suppression, and industrial cooling. Caster wheels may be exposed in dry ice handling or CO₂ storage areas.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): All listed materials (e.g., Polyolefin, Nylon, Polyurethane, metals) are highly resistant to carbon dioxide due to its inert nature.
Avoid (C/D): No materials are significantly affected; all are suitable.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Inert; no interaction. | A |
| Elastomer | Highly resistant; no effect. | A |
| Forged Steel | Inert; no degradation. | A |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Both components resistant; no effect. | A |
| Nylon | Excellent resistance; no effect. | A |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Highly resistant; no degradation. | A |
| Phenolic | Excellent resistance; no effect. | A |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Highly resistant; aluminum unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Highly resistant; iron unaffected. | A |
| Rubber | Resistant; no degradation. | A |
| Solid Elastomer | Highly resistant; no effect. | A |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Resistant; no effect. | A |
| Urethane | Excellent resistance; no effect. | A |
| V-Grooved Iron | Inert; no interaction. | A |
Conclusion
Carbon dioxide is chemically inert and does not significantly affect any caster wheel materials. All listed materials are suitable for use in CO₂ environments. For further assistance, contact us at CasterTech.