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.
Formic Acid
CH₂O₂
Formic Acid Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: CH₂O₂
Physical Properties: Formic acid is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It has a density of 1.22 g/cm³, a boiling point of 100.8°C, and is miscible with water. It is a strong organic acid, corrosive to metals and some plastics. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Formic acid is used in leather tanning, textile processing, and as a preservative. Caster wheels may be exposed in chemical plants or during handling of formic acid solutions.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Polyurethane on Aluminum Core offer excellent to good resistance to formic acid.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid Ductile Cast Iron, V-Grooved Iron, and Rubber due to corrosion or degradation risks.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Corrodes rapidly due to acidic nature; unsuitable. | D |
| Elastomer | Moderate swelling; limited suitability. | C |
| Forged Steel | Corrosion risk; protective coatings may help. | C |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene swells; nylon core resists but overall poor. | C |
| Nylon | Good resistance; slight degradation possible. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Excellent resistance; highly stable. | A |
| Phenolic | Good resistance; slight absorption possible. | B |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness; no degradation. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Good resistance; aluminum unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane resists; iron core may corrode. | C |
| Rubber | Swells and degrades; unsuitable. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Moderate swelling; limited suitability. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Swells; poor long-term performance. | D |
| Urethane | Good resistance; slight softening possible. | B |
| V-Grooved Iron | Corrodes; unsuitable for acidic environments. | D |
Conclusion
Formic acid is corrosive, and Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Polyurethane on Aluminum Core are the best caster wheel materials. Avoid Rubber and metal-based wheels like Ductile Cast Iron due to degradation or corrosion. For further assistance, contact us at CasterTech.