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.
Diesel Fuel
Mixture (C₁₀H₂₀ to C₁₅H₂₈)
Diesel Fuel Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Mixture (primarily C₁₀-C₂₀ hydrocarbons)
Physical Properties: Diesel fuel is a yellow to amber liquid with a characteristic odor. It has a density of ~0.83 g/cm³, a boiling point range of 150-400°C, and is insoluble in water. It is flammable and non-polar. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Diesel fuel is used as a fuel for vehicles and machinery. Caster wheels may be exposed in automotive workshops, fuel storage areas, or during spills.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Ductile Cast Iron are highly resistant to diesel fuel.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid Rubber, Thermoplastic Rubber, and Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core due to swelling or degradation.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Resistant; minimal interaction. | A |
| Elastomer | Moderate swelling; limited suitability. | C |
| Forged Steel | Resistant; no significant degradation. | A |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene swells; nylon core resists but overall poor. | D |
| Nylon | Good resistance; slight absorption. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Excellent resistance; highly stable. | A |
| Phenolic | Good resistance; minimal effect. | B |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Good resistance; aluminum unaffected. | B |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane resists; iron core unaffected. | B |
| Rubber | Swelling and softening; unsuitable. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Moderate swelling; poor performance. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Significant swelling; rapid degradation. | D |
| Urethane | Good resistance; slight softening possible. | B |
| V-Grooved Iron | Resistant; no significant interaction. | A |
Conclusion
Diesel fuel is a non-polar hydrocarbon, and Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and metal-based wheels like Ductile Cast Iron are ideal. Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber due to swelling. For more details, contact us at CasterTech.