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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.

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.