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.
Phosphoric Acid (85%)
H₃PO₄
Phosphoric Acid 85% Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: H₃PO₄
Physical Properties: Phosphoric acid 85% is a colorless, viscous liquid with no distinct odor. It has a density of ~1.68 g/cm³ at 20°C and is fully miscible with water. It is a strong acid and corrosive. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Phosphoric acid 85% is used in:
- Fertilizers: In producing phosphate-based fertilizers.
- Food Industry: As an acidulant in beverages.
- Metal Treatment: For rust removal and phosphating.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in fertilizer or metal processing plants may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin (A) and Phenolic (B) resist phosphoric acid. Nylon (B) is suitable with minor degradation risks.
Materials to Avoid (C/D Ratings): Avoid metals (Ductile Cast Iron, Forged Steel) and elastomers (Rubber, Urethane) due to corrosion or degradation.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Corrodes in acidic conditions. | D |
| Elastomer | Degrades under strong acids. | D |
| Forged Steel | Prone to corrosion from phosphoric acid. | D |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene degrades; nylon resists moderately. | B |
| Nylon | Moderate resistance; minor degradation. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Slightly better than nylon; still vulnerable. | B |
| Phenolic | Resistant to acids; moderate performance. | B |
| Polyolefin | Excellent acid resistance; unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Polyurethane degrades; aluminum corrodes slightly. | D |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane degrades; iron corrodes. | D |
| Rubber | Rapid degradation from acid exposure. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Degrades in acidic conditions. | D |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Poor resistance to acids; degrades. | D |
| Urethane | Degrades under acid exposure. | D |
| V-Grooved Iron | Corrodes in acidic conditions. | D |
Conclusion
Phosphoric acid 85% is compatible with Polyolefin wheels (A rating) and Phenolic (B rating). Avoid metals (Ductile Cast Iron, Forged Steel) and elastomers (Rubber, Urethane) due to corrosion and degradation. For assistance, contact CasterTech.