Chemical Resistance of Wheels

External effects can damage the transport system, especially the wheels. We distinguish between two types of adverse chemical influences:

  1. Contact with chemical substances in accordance with the regulations.
  2. Environmental influences of fluid or gas that prevail at the place of use.

Both these influences can adversely effect not only the overall performance of the castor or wheel, but also the individual components of the assembly, in the form of corrosion, surface changes, loss of strength, embrittlement and degradation of the lubricant properties. Castors that will be used in such problematic environments must have the suitability of their components such as housing, wheel hub, and tyres checked. Not only time in contact, the concentration of the aggressive chemical substances, but also the humidity and the temperature are factors that influence chemical resistance.

The table below gives a general ‘rule of thumb’ guide to the resistance of our wheels to certain chemicals and oils. The resistance is graded on a scale of 1 to 6:

  • High resistance = 1

  • Low resistance = 6

The resistance to corrosion indicated in the table refers to a wheel being immersed in the chemical for a prolonged period. In the case of splashes or very short periods of exposure the expected life of a wheel may be extended although it is suggested that you contact our factory for further information if in any doubt.

Chemical Type

Wheel Type/ Chemical Resistance
 
WRT
WRN
WSU
WPN
WNY
WCI
Acetic Acid (50%)
6
5
6
4
4
6
Acetone
1
6
6
6
1
1
Ammonia Solution (Weak)
3
3
3
3
3
1
Bleach Solution
4
3
4
4
3
1
Butanol
6
6
3
3
1
1
Carbon Tetrachloride
5
5
4
4
1
1
Diesel Oil
4
4
3
3
1
1
Edible Oils
2
2
NDA
NDA
1
1
Ethanol
5
5
4
4
1
1
Hydrochloric Acid (up to 30%)
6
6
6
4
4
6
Hydrofluoric Acid (up to 40%)
6
6
6
5
5
6
Hydrogen Peroxide (30%)
5
5
6
5
5
6
Hydrogen Sulphide
2
2
4
4
2
1
Machine Oil
6
6
NDA
NDA
NDA
1
Methanol
6
6
6
6
2
1
Mineral Oils
5
2
1
1
1
1
Motor Oils
6
6
3
3
NDA
1
Nitric Acid (10%)
6
6
6
6
6
6
Paraffin
1
1
NDA
NDA
1
1
Petrol
6
6
2
2
1
1
Phosphoric Acid (10%)
6
6
6
6
6
6
Seawater
1
1
3
1
1
1
Soap Solution
1
1
2
2
1
1
Sodium Bicarbonate
1
1
2
2
1
1
Sodium Hydroxide Solution (10%)
1
1
2
2
1
1
Sulphuric Acid (up to 50%)
6
6
6
6
6
6
Trichloroethylene
6
6
5
5
2
1
Water
1
1
2
2
1
1
White Spirit
4
4
NDA
NDA
2
1