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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.

Hydraulic Oil Petroleum

Mixture (varies)

Hydraulic Oil Petroleum Caster Compatibility

Chemical Overview

Molecular Formula: Mixture (primarily hydrocarbons)

Physical Properties: Hydraulic oil (petroleum-based) is a viscous liquid with a density of ~0.85-0.90 g/cm³ and a boiling point >300°C. It is insoluble in water and non-polar. (Source: PubChem)

Industrial Applications

Hydraulic oil is used in machinery, automotive, and industrial equipment. Caster wheels may be exposed in workshops or manufacturing facilities.

Wheel Material Compatibility Summary

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

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

Hydraulic oil (petroleum) is a non-polar fluid, 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.