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.
Sodium Hydroxide (50%)
NaOH
Sodium Hydroxide 50% Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: NaOH
Physical Properties: Sodium hydroxide 50% is a colorless, viscous liquid with a strong alkaline nature. It has a density of ~1.5 g/cm³ at 20°C and is fully miscible with water. It is highly corrosive and generates heat when diluted. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Sodium hydroxide 50% is used in:
- Pulp and Paper: paper: In pulp processing and paper production.
- Chemical Manufacturing: In producing soaps, detergents, and chemicals.
- Cleaning: In industrial cleaning and degreasing.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in paper or chemical plants may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin and Phenolic (A) resist high-concentration alkalis. Nylon and Forged Steel (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 in high-concentration alkali. | B |
| Elastomer | Degrades in strong alkaline conditions. | C |
| Forged Steel | Resistant but may corrode slightly. | B |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene degrades; nylon resists moderately. | 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. | 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 in alkaline conditions. | B |
Conclusion
Sodium hydroxide 50% is compatible with Polyolefin and Phenolic wheels (A ratings). Avoid Polyurethane on Aluminum Core (D rating) due to corrosion. For assistance, contact CasterTech.