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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.

Gasoline

C₅–C₁₂

Gasoline Caster Compatibility

Chemical Overview

Molecular Formula: Mixture (primarily C₅-C₁₂ hydrocarbons)

Physical Properties: Gasoline is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic odor. It has a density of ~0.74 g/cm³, a boiling point range of 30-200°C, and is insoluble in water. It is highly flammable and a non-polar solvent. (Source: PubChem)

Industrial Applications

Gasoline is used as a fuel for vehicles and machinery. Caster wheels may be exposed in automotive workshops, fuel storage, or during spills.

Wheel Material Compatibility Summary

Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Ductile Cast Iron are highly resistant to gasoline.

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

Gasoline is a non-polar solvent, 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.