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.
Naphtha
C₅–C₁₂
Naphtha Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Mixture (C₅-C₁₂ hydrocarbons)
Physical Properties: Naphtha is a colorless to light yellow liquid with a gasoline-like odor. It has a boiling point range of 30-200°C (depending on composition) and a density of ~0.7-0.8 g/cm³ at 20°C. It is insoluble in water and highly flammable. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Naphtha is used in:
- Solvents: In paints, varnishes, and cleaning agents.
- Petrochemicals: As a feedstock for producing plastics and fuels.
- Fuel Blending: In gasoline production.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in refineries or manufacturing may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin, Ductile Cast Iron, and Forged Steel (A) resist naphtha’s hydrocarbon nature. Nylon and Phenolic (B) are suitable with minor swelling risks.
Materials to Avoid (C/D Ratings): Avoid Rubber, Thermoplastic Rubber, and Urethane (C/D) due to swelling or degradation.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Resistant to hydrocarbons; no corrosion. | A |
| Elastomer | Swelling and softening likely. | C |
| Forged Steel | Unaffected by naphtha. | A |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene may swell; nylon core resists. | B |
| Nylon | Minor swelling possible; generally resistant. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Better stability than nylon. | B |
| Phenolic | Resistant to hydrocarbons; minimal impact. | B |
| Polyolefin | Excellent inertness; unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Polyurethane may swell; aluminum resists. | C |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane degrades; iron unaffected. | C |
| Rubber | Significant swelling and degradation. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Swelling likely; poor performance. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Degrades with hydrocarbon exposure. | D |
| Urethane | Moderate swelling; not ideal. | C |
| V-Grooved Iron | Resistant to hydrocarbons; no corrosion. | A |
Conclusion
Naphtha is compatible with Polyolefin, Ductile Cast Iron, and Forged Steel wheels (A ratings). Avoid Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber (D ratings) due to degradation. For assistance, contact CasterTech.