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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.

Isopropyl Alcohol

C₃H₈O

Isopropyl Alcohol Caster Compatibility

Chemical Overview

Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O

Physical Properties: Isopropyl alcohol is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. It has a density of 0.79 g/cm³, a boiling point of 82.6°C, and is miscible with water. It is a mild solvent. (Source: PubChem)

Industrial Applications

Isopropyl alcohol is used as a solvent, disinfectant, and in electronics cleaning. Caster wheels may be exposed in medical facilities, laboratories, or manufacturing.

Wheel Material Compatibility Summary

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

Avoid (C/D): Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber due to potential swelling or softening.

Wheel Compatibility Table

Wheel Material Interaction Description Rating
Ductile Cast Iron Resistant; minimal interaction. A
Elastomer Good resistance; slight softening possible. B
Forged Steel Resistant; no significant degradation. A
Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core Neoprene resists; nylon core stable. B
Nylon Good resistance; minimal effect. 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 unaffected. B
Rubber Swelling and softening; unsuitable. C
Solid Elastomer Good resistance; slight softening possible. B
Thermoplastic Rubber Swelling and softening; unsuitable. C
Urethane Good resistance; minimal effect. B
V-Grooved Iron Resistant; minimal interaction. A

Conclusion

Isopropyl alcohol is a mild solvent, and Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and metal-based wheels like Ductile Cast Iron are ideal. Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber due to swelling risks. For more details, contact us at CasterTech.