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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 Dichloride

C₂H₄Cl₂

Ethylene Dichloride Caster Compatibility

Chemical Overview

Molecular Formula: C₂H₄Cl₂

Physical Properties: Ethylene dichloride (1,2-dichloroethane) is a colorless liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like smell 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 dichloride is commonly used in:

  • Vinyl Chloride Production: As a precursor for PVC manufacturing.
  • Solvents: In cleaning and degreasing operations.
  • Chemical Synthesis: In producing chlorinated compounds.
  • Exposure Scenarios: Spills in chemical plants or storage areas may contact caster wheels.

WhWheel Material Compatibility Summary

Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin (A) and Phenolic (B) resist chlorinated solvents. Ductile Cast Iron and Forged Steel (A) are also suitable.

Materials to Avoid (C/D Ratings): Avoid Rubber, Urethane, and Thermoplastic Rubber (C/D) due to swelling or degradation.

Wheel Compatibility Table

Wheel Material Interaction Description Rating
Ductile Cast Iron Resistant to solvents; no corrosion. A
Elastomer Swelling and degradation likely. C
Forged Steel Unaffected by dichloride. A
Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core Neoprene degrades; nylon resists slightly. C
Nylon Moderate resistance; swelling possible. C
Nylon Glass Filled Slightly better than nylon; minor swelling. C
Phenolic Good resistance; minimal degradation. B
Polyolefin Excellent inertness; unaffected. A
Polyurethane on Aluminum Core Polyurethane degrades; aluminum resists. C
Polyurethane on Iron Core Polyurethane degrades; iron unaffected. C
Rubber Significant swelling and degradation. D
Solid Elastomer Swelling likely; poor performance. C
Thermoplastic Rubber Degrades with solvent exposure. D
Urethane Swelling and degradation. C
V-Grooved Iron Resistant to solvents; no corrosion. A

Conclusion

Ethylene dichloride is compatible with Polyolefin, Ductile Cast Iron, and Forged Steel wheels (A ratings). Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber due to degradation. For assistance, contact CasterTech.