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.
Methyl Alcohol
CH₄O
Methyl Alcohol Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: CH₃OH
Physical Properties: Methyl alcohol (methanol) is a colorless, flammable liquid with a mild odor. It has a density of 0.79 g/cm³, a boiling point of 64.7°C, and is miscible with water. It is a polar solvent. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Methyl alcohol is used as a solvent, fuel, and in chemical synthesis. Caster wheels may be exposed in laboratories, manufacturing, or fuel storage areas.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Ductile Cast Iron are highly resistant to methyl 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
Methyl alcohol is a 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 risks. For more details, contact us at CasterTech.