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.
Varsol
Varies
Varsol Caster Compatibility
Chemical Overview
Molecular Formula: Mixture (primarily aliphatic hydrocarbons)
Physical Properties: Varsol is a clear, colorless liquid (mineral spirits) with a mild petroleum odor. It has a boiling range of 150-200°C, a density of ~0.79 g/cm³ at 20°C, and is insoluble in water. It is a non-polar solvent used for cleaning and degreasing. (Source: PubChem, general hydrocarbon data)
Industrial Applications
Varsol is used in:
- Cleaning: For degreasing machinery and tools.
- Paints and Coatings: As a thinner for oil-based paints.
- Industrial Maintenance: In solvent-based cleaning solutions.
- Exposure Scenarios: Spills in maintenance or painting operations may contact caster wheels.
Wheel Material Compatibility Summary
Best Suited Materials (A/B Ratings): Polyolefin and Phenolic (A) resist hydrocarbon solvents. Ductile Cast Iron and Forged Steel (B) are unaffected.
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 hydrocarbon solvents. | B |
| Elastomer | Swells and degrades in Varsol. | D |
| Forged Steel | Unaffected by Varsol. | B |
| Neoprene/Nylon Glass Core | Neoprene swells; nylon degrades slightly. | C |
| Nylon | Moderate degradation in hydrocarbon solvents. | C |
| Nylon Glass Filled | Similar to nylon; slight degradation. | C |
| Phenolic | Resistant to hydrocarbon 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 Varsol. | D |
| Solid Elastomer | Degrades in hydrocarbon solvents. | D |
| Thermoplastic Rubber | Swells and degrades in Varsol. | D |
| Urethane | Swells and degrades in hydrocarbon solvents. | D |
| V-Grooved Iron | Unaffected by Varsol. | B |
Conclusion
Varsol’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.