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.
Jet Fuel JP-4
Mixture (C₈H₁₈ to C₁₆H₃₄)
Jet Fuel JP-4 Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Mixture (primarily hydrocarbons, C₆-C₁₆)
Physical Properties: Jet Fuel JP-4 is a pale yellow, flammable liquid with a kerosene-like odor. It has a density of ~0.78 g/cm³, a boiling point range of 60-240°C, and is insoluble in water. It is a non-polar solvent. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Jet Fuel JP-4 is used as a military aviation fuel. Caster wheels may be exposed in aircraft maintenance facilities or fuel storage areas.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Ductile Cast Iron are highly resistant to JP-4.
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 unaffected. | B |
| Rubber | Swelling and softening; unsuitable. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Moderate swelling; poor performance. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Severe swelling; rapid degradation. | D |
| Urethane | Good resistance; slight softening possible. | B |
| V-Grooved Iron | Resistant; minimal impact. | A |
Conclusion
Jet Fuel JP-4 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.