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.
Nitric Acid (10%)
HNO₃
Nitric Acid 10% Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: HNO₃
Physical Properties: Nitric acid (10% aqueous solution) is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It has a density of ~1.05 g/cm³, is miscible with water, and is a strong oxidizing acid. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Nitric acid is used in fertilizer production, metal etching, and chemical synthesis. Caster wheels may be exposed in chemical plants or laboratories.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited (A/B): Polyolefin and Nylon Glass Filled are highly resistant to 10% nitric acid.
Avoid (C/D): Avoid all metal-based wheels, Rubber, and Polyurethane-based wheels due to oxidation or degradation risks.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Severe corrosion and oxidation; unsuitable. | D |
| Elastomer | Moderate degradation; limited suitability. | C |
| Forged Steel | Severe corrosion; unsuitable. | D |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene degrades; nylon core resists but overall poor. | C |
| Nylon | Moderate resistance; some degradation possible. | C |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Excellent resistance; highly stable. | A |
| Phenolic | Moderate degradation; not recommended. | C |
| Polyolefin | Excellent chemical inertness. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Polyurethane degrades; aluminum oxidizes; unsuitable. | D |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane degrades; iron oxidizes; unsuitable. | D |
| Rubber | Severe degradation; unsuitable. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Moderate degradation; limited suitability. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Severe degradation; unsuitable. | D |
| Urethane | Moderate degradation; not recommended. | C |
| V-Grooved Iron | Severe corrosion and oxidation; unsuitable. | D |
Conclusion
Nitric acid (10%) is a strong oxidizing acid, and Polyolefin and Nylon Glass Filled are ideal caster wheel materials. Avoid metal-based wheels, Rubber, and Polyurethane-based wheels due to corrosion and degradation risks. For further guidance, contact us at CasterTech.