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.
Ethylene Chloride (1,2-Dichloroethane)
C₂H₄Cl₂
Ethylene Chloride Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: C₂H₄Cl₂
Physical Properties: Ethylene chloride (1,2-dichloroethane) is a colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. It has a boiling point of 83.5°C, a melting point of -35.7°C, and a density of 1.253 g/cm³ at 20°C. It is slightly soluble in water (8.7 g/L) and miscible with organic solvents. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Ethylene chloride is used in:
- Chemical Synthesis: As an intermediate in producing vinyl chloride for PVC.
- Solvents: In degreasing and cleaning applications.
- Extraction: In pharmaceutical and chemical processes.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in PVC production or solvent handling may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin (A) and Phenolic (B) resist chlorinated solvents well. Ductile Cast Iron and Forged Steel (A) are unaffected.
Materials to Avoid (C/D Ratings): Avoid Rubber, Urethane, and Thermoplastic Rubber (C/D) due to swelling or dissolution.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Resistant to chlorinated solvents; no corrosion. | A |
| Elastomer | Swelling and degradation from solvent exposure. | C |
| Forged Steel | Unaffected by ethylene chloride. | A |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene degrades; nylon core resists. | C |
| Nylon | Moderate resistance; some swelling. | C |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Slightly better than nylon; minor swelling. | C |
| Phenolic | Good resistance to solvents; minimal impact. | B |
| Polyolefin | Excellent resistance; unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Polyurethane dissolves; aluminum resists. | C |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane degrades; iron unaffected. | C |
| Rubber | Significant swelling and dissolution. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Swelling and softening likely. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Degrades with solvent exposure. | D |
| Urethane | Dissolution and swelling; poor performance. | C |
| V-Grooved Iron | Resistant to solvents; no corrosion. | A |
Conclusion
Ethylene chloride is compatible with Polyolefin, Ductile Cast Iron, and Forged Steel wheels (A ratings). Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber (D ratings) due to degradation. For further assistance, contact us at CasterTech.