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.
Trisodium Phosphate
Na₃PO₄
Trisodium Phosphate Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Na₃PO₄
Physical Properties: Trisodium phosphate is a white crystalline or granular solid, highly soluble in water (14 g/100 mL at 20°C), forming a strongly alkaline solution (pH ~12). It has a melting point of 73.4°C (hydrate) and a density of 2.54 g/cm³. It is moderately corrosive. (Source: PubChem)
Industrial Applications
Trisodium phosphate is used in:
- Cleaning: In heavy-duty industrial cleaners and degreasers.
- Food Industry: As a food additive for emulsification.
- Water Treatment: To control water hardness.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in cleaning or food processing facilities may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin and Phenolic (A) resist alkaline solutions. 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 alkaline solutions. | 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 in alkaline solutions. | B |
Conclusion
Trisodium phosphate is compatible with Polyolefin and Phenolic wheels (A ratings). Avoid Polyurethane on Aluminum Core (D rating) due to corrosion in alkaline conditions. For assistance, contact CasterTech.