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.
Mineral Oil
Mixture (C₁₅H₃₂ to C₄₀H₈₂)
Mineral Oil Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Mixture (primarily hydrocarbons, C₁₅-C₅₀)
Physical Properties: Mineral oil is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid with a density of ~0.85 g/cm³ and a boiling point >300°C. It is insoluble in water and non-polar. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Mineral oil is used as a lubricant, in cosmetics, and in food processing. Caster wheels may be exposed in manufacturing or food production facilities.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin, Nylon Glass Filled, and Ductile Cast Iron are highly resistant to mineral oil.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber due to swelling or softening.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Resistant; minimal interaction. | A |
| Elastomer | Good resistance; slight swelling 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 swelling possible. | B |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Swelling and softening; unsuitable. | C |
| Urethane | Good resistance; minimal effect. | B |
| V-Grooved Iron | Resistant; minimal interaction. | A |
Conclusion
Mineral oil is a non-polar lubricant, 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.