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.
Toluene
C₇H₈
Toluene Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: C₇H₈
Physical Properties: Toluene is a colorless liquid with a sweet, pungent odor. It has a boiling point of 110.6°C, a density of 0.867 g/cm³ at 20°C, and is slightly soluble in water (0.52 g/L at 20°C). It is a non-polar organic solvent. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Toluene is used in:
- Paints and Coatings: As a solvent in paints and thinners.
- Chemical Synthesis: In producing benzene and TNT.
- Adhesives: In glues and sealants.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in paint or chemical manufacturing may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin and Phenolic (A) resist organic solvents. Ductile Cast Iron and Forged Steel (B) are unaffected by non-polar solvents.
Materials to Avoid (C/D Ratings): Avoid elastomers (Rubber, Urethane) and some polymers (Nylon) due to swelling or degradation.
Wheel Compatibility Table
| Wheel Material | Interaction Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Ductile Cast Iron | Unaffected by non-polar solvents. | B |
| Elastomer | Swells and degrades in toluene. | D |
| Forged Steel | Unaffected by toluene. | B |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene swells; nylon degrades slightly. | C |
| Nylon | Moderate degradation in organic solvents. | C |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Similar to nylon; slight degradation. | C |
| Phenolic | Resistant to organic solvents; unaffected. | A |
| Polyolefin | Excellent resistance; unaffected. | A |
| Polyurethane on Aluminum Core | Polyurethane swells; aluminum unaffected. | D |
| Polyurethane on Iron Core | Polyurethane swells; iron unaffected. | D |
| Rubber | Swells and degrades rapidly in toluene. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Degrades in organic solvents. | D |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Swells and degrades in toluene. | D |
| Urethane | Swells and degrades in organic solvents. | D |
| V-Grooved Iron | Unaffected by toluene. | B |
Conclusion
Toluene’s solvent properties make Polyolefin and Phenolic wheels (A ratings) the best choice. Avoid elastomers (Rubber, Urethane) and Nylon (C/D ratings) due to swelling and degradation. For assistance, contact CasterTech.