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.
Potassium Hydroxide
KOH
Potassium Hydroxide Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: KOH
Physical Properties: Potassium hydroxide is a white solid or colorless aqueous solution with a strong alkaline nature. It has a melting point of 360°C, a density of 2.044 g/cm³ (solid), and is highly soluble in water (112 g/100 mL at 20°C). It is corrosive and hygroscopic. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Potassium hydroxide is used in:
- Soap Manufacturing: In producing liquid soaps and detergents.
- Chemical Synthesis: In making potassium salts and biodiesel.
- Food Processing: As a pH regulator and processing aid.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in soap or chemical plants may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin and Phenolic (A) resist strong alkalis. Nylon and Ductile Cast Iron (B) are suitable with minor risks.
Materials to Avoid (C/D Ratings): Avoid Aluminum-containing wheels (Polyurethane on Aluminum Core) and some elastomers (Rubber, Urethane) due to corrosion or degradation.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Minor corrosion possible in high concentrations. | B |
| Elastomer | Degrades in strong alkaline conditions. | C |
| Forged Steel | Resistant but may corrode slightly. | B |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene may degrade; nylon resists well. | B |
| Nylon | Good resistance to alkalis. | B |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Similar to nylon; highly resistant. | B |
| Phenolic | Excellent resistance to alkalis. | A |
| Polyolefin | Excellent inertness; unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Polyurethane resists; aluminum corrodes in alkali. | D |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane resists; iron may corrode slightly. | B |
| Rubber | Degradation likely in strong alkalis. | C |
| Solid Elastomer | Moderate degradation possible. | C |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Degrades in alkaline conditions. | C |
| Urethane | Moderate degradation in alkalis. | C |
| V-Grooved Iron | Minor corrosion possible. | B |
Conclusion
Potassium hydroxide is compatible with Polyolefin and Phenolic wheels (A ratings). Avoid Polyurethane on Aluminum Core (D rating) and elastomers (Rubber, Urethane) due to corrosion or degradation. For assistance, contact CasterTech.