Know-how

Chemical resistance of casters & wheels

If casters or wheels are likely to come into contact with aggressive substances, their chemical resistance must be taken into account when selecting the right product.

Analysis of chemical resistance

If the wheels are likely to come into contact with aggressive substances, their chemical resistance must be taken into account when selecting the right products. The better we know the environmental conditions under which castors or wheels are to be used, the more precisely we can determine which product will be most suitable. This could prevent premature castor failure due to corrosion, surface changes, embrittlement, loss of strength, or lubricant leakage. Careful coordination of all components guarantees the maximum service life.

Important factors in chemical resistance

Initially, it should be checked which chemical substances and environmental influences are present at the place of use. Important: The reaction of the materials depends on various factors, such as the contact time and concentration of the aggressive substances, as well as the humidity and temperature. A distinction is made between substances which are chemically resistant, partially resistant, or not resistant. Good chemical resistance is shown by stainless steel sheets, plastics and thermoplastic rubber .

In the table you will find an overview of the chemical resistance of our materials to various aggressive substances. The values shown in the table are for guidance only and do not apply to mixtures of chemicals. Please contact us in special cases – we will be happy to provide you with detailed advice!

Key: ++ resistant | + limited resistance | = not resistant

Material	Concentration	Rubber	Polyamide	Polyurethane	Polypropylene
Acetaldehyde	40%	+	+	=	+
Acetone	-	++	++	=	+
Boric acid, aqueous	10%	++	+	++	+
Bromine	-	=	=	=	=
Ethanoic acid	30%	=	++	=	++
Ethanol amine	-	-	-	=	-
Formaldehyde	30%	++	++	+	++
Formic acid	10%	+	=	=	++ (max. 60°C)
Hydrochloric acid, aqueous	30%	+	=	=	++
Inert gases	-	-	++	-	-
Lead acetate, aqueous	10%	+	++	++	=
Lead nitrate	-	++	-	++	-
Sodium chloride, aqueous	10%	+	=	++	++ (max. 20°C)
Sodium cyanide, aqueous	10%	-	++	=	-
Sodium phosphate, aqueous	10%	++	++	++	++
Sodium silicate, aqueous	10%	++	++	+	-