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.
Chlorine, Wet
Cl₂ (in water)
Chlorine Wet Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Cl₂ (in aqueous solution)
Physical Properties: Wet chlorine refers to chlorine gas in the presence of moisture, forming hypochlorous acid (HOCl) or hydrochloric acid (HCl). It is highly corrosive, especially to metals, and reactive. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Wet chlorine is encountered in water treatment, bleaching, and chemical manufacturing. Caster wheels may be exposed in wet environments like pools or processing plants.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin and Nylon Glass Filled are highly resistant to wet chlorine. Polyurethane on Aluminum Core is also suitable.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid Ductile Cast Iron, Forged Steel, V-Grooved Iron, and Rubber due to severe corrosion or degradation.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Severe corrosion; rapid degradation. | D |
| Elastomer | Moderate degradation; limited suitability. | C |
| Forged Steel | Severe corrosion; unsuitable. | D |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene degrades; nylon core resists but overall poor. | C |
| Nylon | Good resistance; slight degradation possible. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Excellent resistance; highly stable. | A |
| Phenolic | Moderate resistance; some degradation. | C |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Good resistance; aluminum unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane resists; iron core corrodes. | C |
| Rubber | Severe degradation; unsuitable. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Moderate degradation; poor performance. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Degrades; unsuitable. | D |
| Urethane | Moderate resistance; some degradation. | C |
| V-Grooved Iron | Severe corrosion; unsuitable. | D |
Conclusion
Wet chlorine is highly corrosive, and Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Polyurethane on Aluminum Core are the best choices. Avoid metal-based wheels and Rubber due to severe corrosion and degradation. For further guidance, contact us at CasterTech.