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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.

Oleic Acid

C₁₈H₃₄O₂

Oleic Acid Caster Compatibility

Chemical Overview

Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₃₄O₂

Physical Properties: Oleic acid is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild odor. It has a density of 0.89 g/cm³, a boiling point of 360°C, and is insoluble in water. It is a non-polar fatty acid. (Source: PubChem)

Industrial Applications

Oleic acid is used in cosmetics, lubricants, and 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 oleic acid.

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 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

Oleic acid is a non-polar fatty acid, 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.