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Advantages of using industrial solvent cleaners for the removal of dirt, oil, grease and other contaminants
Advantages of using industrial solvent cleaners for the removal of dirt, oil, grease and other contaminants.
Industrial solvent cleaners are specialised cleaning products designed for use in industrial settings. They are formulated to tackle tough and stubborn contaminants found in industrial environments, such as heavy machinery, equipment, tools, and surfaces. They typically contain powerful solvents and cleaning agents capable of breaking down and removing various types of residues, including grease, oil, grime, chemicals, and more.
Organic solvents are used as the primary active ingredient, to dissolve and remove dirt, grease, oil, and other contaminants from surfaces. These chemicals can break down and disperse substances that are not water-soluble. Solvent cleaners are commonly used in various industrial applications for tasks where water-based cleaners are not effective. Industrial solvent cleaners offer several advantages in various applications and industries. The advantages of using industrial solvent cleaners include:
Effective Cleaning:
Industrial solvent cleaners are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, such as grease, oil, paint, adhesives, and more. They can clean surfaces thoroughly, leaving them free from residue and contaminants.
High Solvency:
They have a high solvency power, allowing them to effectively dissolve and remove industrial contaminants that may not be easily cleaned with water-based solutions.
Fast Evaporation:
Many industrial solvent cleaners are formulated to evaporate quickly, leaving behind minimal residue and allowing for rapid cleaning and drying of surfaces.
Versatility:
Solvent cleaners can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, glass, plastic, and ceramics. This versatility makes them suitable for different industries and applications. They are often used for degreasing machinery and equipment in manufacturing facilities, automotive repair shops, and other industrial settings.
Fast Drying: Solvent cleaners typically evaporate quickly, leaving surfaces dry and ready for use. This is particularly important in industries where downtime must be minimized.
Precision Cleaning: Solvent cleaners are often used for precision cleaning tasks, such as cleaning electronic components, optical lenses, and medical devices, where cleanliness is critical.
Residue-Free Cleaning: Solvent cleaners are known for leaving minimal to no residue after cleaning, making them ideal for applications where residue could be problematic.
Compatibility: These cleaners are often compatible with a wide range of materials and coatings, reducing the risk of damaging the surfaces being cleaned.
Flammable and Non-Flammable Options: Depending on the specific needs of an application, both flammable and non-flammable solvent cleaners are available, allowing for safer operation in different environments.
Low Surface Tension: Solvent cleaners can penetrate into tight spaces and crevices due to their low surface tension, ensuring thorough cleaning.
Degreasing Capabilities: Industrial solvent cleaners are excellent at degreasing and removing oily residues, making them suitable for automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industries.
Environmental Considerations: Some industrial solvent cleaners are formulated to be more environmentally friendly, with low VOC (volatile organic compound) and HAP (hazardous air pollutant) content, reducing their impact on the environment.
Regulatory Compliance: Many industrial solvent cleaners are formulated to meet specific industry standards and regulations, ensuring that they are safe and effective for use in various applications.
Long Shelf Life:
Solvent cleaners typically have a long shelf life, allowing for extended storage and usability.
While industrial solvent cleaners offer many advantages, it’s essential to use them with caution, especially those that are flammable, and to follow safety guidelines and regulations to protect workers and the environment. Additionally, it’s crucial to choose the right solvent cleaner for your application to achieve the best results while minimizing any potential drawbacks or risks.
EnviroTech Europe supply high quality hydrocarbon or chlorinated solvent cleaners for the safe removal of dirt, oil, grease and other contaminants
Clarea® industrial solvent cleaners are compatible with all metals, composites and most plastics used to remove dirt, oil, grease, or other contaminants from surfaces without causing harm or leavingresidue. They are used as immersion cleaners for component cleaning in manufacturing andengineering industries and as wipe cleaners for large surface areas prior to painting or powder coating.
Clarea® industrial solvent cleaners are aliphatic hydrocarbon based, non-chlorinated, low odour degreasing solvents with specified flash points. They will remove oils, greases, hydraulic fluids cutting fluids and a wide variety of hydrocarbon based protective coatings. Can be safely used with all metals and composites and most plastic and paint finishes.
Clarea®HC40 is low odour degreasing fast drying solvent with a flash point of 40°C. It is suitable for ultrasonic and dip systems and can be used with brush or in hand-wipe processes.
Clarea®HC62 is a degreasing solvent with a flash point over 60°C. It is suitable for hand-wipe applications when used externally.
EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL
● Versatile and cost-effective solutions for all your industrial cleaning
● Minimal odour and low toxicity for operators
● Multipurpose uses can reduce the inventory of cleaning fluids.
● Flexible uses – evaporation rates suitable for hand wipe, spray, or immersion tank cleaning
● Clarea®HC40 for brush and hand wiping, air dries. Flash point 40°C
● Clarea®HC62 for spray or immersion cleaning Flash point 62°C
● Contains no chlorine, other halogens or stabilisers
● Compatible with all metals and composites and most plastics
● Excellent pre-cleaner for paint or powder coatings
● Safe, reliable, environmentally friendly cleaning
Packaging and availability
Clarea® HC40 and Clarea® HC62 is available in the following container sizes and weights:
205 litre drums, 25 litre cans, 5 litre cans.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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The importance of corrosion protection for electrical systems
The importance of corrosion protection for electrical systems
Protection from corrosion is vital for safeguarding infrastructure and equipment, reducing costs, ensuring safety, and maintaining the reliability and longevity of critical electrical and electronic systems across various industries. Corrosion protection is critically important for several reasons.
Safety:
Corrosion can compromise the integrity of electrical components, leading to potential safety hazards. Damaged or corroded components can result in electrical short circuits, fires, or other dangerous situations.
Reliability:
Electrical systems are expected to function reliably over extended periods. Corrosion can lead to unexpected failures and downtime, disrupting operations and causing financial losses.
Performance:
Corrosion can degrade the performance of electrical connections, leading to increased resistance and reduced efficiency. This can result in wasted energy, increased operating costs, and reduced system performance.
Longevity:
Proper corrosion protection measures can extend the lifespan of electrical components and systems. By preventing or mitigating corrosion, you can reduce the frequency of maintenance and replacement, saving both time and money.
Energy Efficiency:
Corrosion can increase energy consumption. For example, in HVAC systems, corroded heat exchangers are less efficient, leading to higher energy bills.
Health and Safety:
Corrosion can compromise the safety of equipment and systems, leading to accidents and injuries. For instance, corrosion in the aviation industry can pose a significant risk to flight safety.
Reduced Maintenance Costs:
Dealing with the corrosion related issues listed above can be costly. Preventing corrosion through protective measures is always more cost-effective in the long run than repairing or replacing damaged components. Corrosion protection measures, such as coatings and inhibitors, can reduce the need for frequent maintenance and repair, saving both time and money.
Environmental Impact:
Corrosion can lead to the release of hazardous materials, such as lead, into the environment. Proper corrosion protection measures can reduce the environmental impact of electrical systems.
Economic Impact:
Corrosion costs industries billions of dollars each year in repair, maintenance, and replacement of corroded equipment. Effective corrosion protection measures can significantly reduce these costs.
Maintaining Signal Integrity:
In sensitive electronic systems, corrosion can affect the quality of signals and data transmission. For example, in telecommunications or data centres, corrosion-induced signal degradation can lead to communication errors, false signals or even data loss.
Aesthetic Considerations:
In some cases, electrical systems are visible to the public or customers. Corrosion can be unsightly and negatively impact the image and reputation of an organization.
Preventive Maintenance:
Implementing corrosion protection measures as part of a preventive maintenance program can help identify and address potential corrosion issues before they escalate, minimizing the risk of unexpected failures. Corrosion can cause equipment failures and operational disruptions. Corrosion protection measures ensure the reliable operation of critical electrical systems.
Regulatory Compliance:
In many industries, regulations and standards are in place that require the use of corrosion protection methods to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical systems. This is why Super CORR A is specified in the maintenance manuals for many aircraft manufacturers. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid legal and financial consequences.
Overall, corrosion protection is vital for safeguarding electrical and electronic equipment, reducing costs, ensuring safety, and maintaining the reliability and longevity of critical systems across various industries. Common methods of corrosion protection for electrical systems include the use of corrosion-resistant materials, coatings, sealants, periodic inspections, and maintenance, as well as environmental controls to reduce exposure to corrosive elements. Overall, prioritizing corrosion protection is essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and longevity of electrical systems.
Specialist Barrier Film Corrosion Protection
EnviroTech Europe supplies advanced corrosion protection products, based on approved synthetic materials, to provide quality solutions to a range of lubrication and corrosion problems.
Super CORR A is a unique and proprietary formulation with long-lasting, anti-corrosion inhibitors providing a superior lubrication coefficient and protection against moisture, wear, general and fretting corrosion, static electricity, corona, and other electro migration problems. The non-flammable film is only 7 microns (0.007mm) in thickness, is not a wax or oil-based product and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides, petroleum-based material, or halogens, to meet the EU RoHS directive.
Super CORR A is unexcelled in preventing failures of electrical systems and electronic equipment caused by corrosion as well as preventing the corrosion of metal components surfaces. Use Super CORR A to protect connectors, electrical systems and switches and mechanical controls during servicing. It’s ability to displace water from exposed contacts can ensure reliable operation in extreme conditions, all from one small aerosol can.
The use of Super CORR A for corrosion control can not only bring financial savings in reduced maintenance and replacement costs but more importantly greater safety. It is much simpler and a lot less costly to prevent corrosion than to repair or replace the damaged equipment or component that failed because of corrosion.
Super CORR A is packaged in aerosol cans making access to component parts easy for engineering crews in difficult locations and conditions. Unpainted mild steel will not rust on exterior surfaces directly exposed to sea water environments for at least 6 months, protecting electrical connectors, switches, chains, drive shafts from corrosion while maintaining lubrication on moving surfaces.
EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL
- Extremely long-lasting, specially formulated and proprietary anti-corrosive inhibitor.
- Eliminates premature failure of components created by moisture, general or fretting corrosion.
- Prevents deterioration and contamination on all surfaces of electronic and electrical equipment and mechanical close tolerance moving components.
- Reliability increased, maintenance intervals increased and costs reduced, manufacturers save costly warranty service calls or product re-call.
APPROVED
- Industry approval from: NASA, Boeing Aircraft, Bombardier, Embraer, Lear, Gulfstream, Hawker-Beechcraft, Cessna, Raytheon, Polish Airforce, Northrop-Grumman, Royal Navy and Royal Norwegian Air Force.
- Exceeds Mil C 81309 Corrosion Prevention Compounds.
- Approved in US Tri-Service Corrosion Manuals.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website https://www.envirotech-europe.com/supercorr-a for for information about other uses and applications for Super CORR A.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our website contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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Why are vapour degreasing solvents so good at cleaning?
Why are vapour degreasing solvents so good at cleaning?
Vapour degreasing solvents are typically chosen for their excellent solvency properties. They have the ability to dissolve and disperse a wide range of contaminants, including dirt, oil, grease, wax, and other contaminants. The cleaning action of solvents is primarily attributed to their unique molecular properties and interactions with the materials they contact. Here’s why solvents are so good at cleaning:
Low Surface Tension:
Vapour degreasing solvents can reduce the surface tension of liquids, making them more effective at penetrating and breaking up dirt and stains. This allows the solvent to reach areas that might otherwise be hard to clean.
Polarity:
The polarity of a solvent plays a significant role in its cleaning ability. Polar solvents have molecules with positive and negative poles, which allows them to interact with polar substances like water-based stains. Nonpolar solvents, on the other hand, are effective at dissolving nonpolar substances like oils and grease. Different cleaning tasks may require the use of polar or nonpolar solvents depending on the nature of the dirt or stain. Most vapour degreasing solvents are nonpolar in nature, meaning they do not have a positive or negative charge. This allows them to interact with a variety of contaminants, regardless of their charge or polarity, making them versatile for different types of cleaning applications.
Heat and Vaporization:
The vapour degreasing process involves heating the solvent to create vapour, which rises and condenses on the surfaces to be cleaned. This condensation releases latent heat, which aids in loosening and lifting contaminants from the surfaces. The vaporization and condensation cycles help dislodge and carry away dirt, oils, and other substances effectively.
No Aqueous Residues:
Unlike water-based cleaning methods, vapour degreasing solvents leave little to no aqueous residue behind. This is especially important for applications where water could cause corrosion or damage, such as cleaning sensitive electronics or precision mechanical components.
Minimal Agitation Required:
Vapour degreasing is a relatively gentle cleaning method that doesn’t require extensive mechanical agitation. This reduces the risk of damaging delicate parts while ensuring effective cleaning.
Consistency:
Vapour degreasing provides consistent and uniform cleaning results because the solvent vapor can reach all surfaces evenly, including intricate and complex geometries.
Environmental Considerations:
While some vapour degreasing solvents in the past were environmentally concerning, modern solvents are designed to be safer and more environmentally friendly. They are engineered to have lower toxicity, reduced volatility, and minimal global warming or ozone-depleting potential.
Dissolving Power:
Solvents have the ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, both organic and inorganic. This is due to their molecular structure, which allows them to interact with different types of molecules. When a solvent comes into contact with a substance, its molecules surround and separate the particles of the substance, breaking down the intermolecular forces holding them together. This leads to the dissolution of the substance into the solvent.
Evaporation:
Vapour degreasing solvents typically have relatively low boiling points, which means they evaporate quickly when exposed to air. This evaporation helps in removing the dissolved dirt and contaminants from surfaces, leaving them clean and dry. It is important to ensure evaporating solvent doesn’t escape to the atmosphere. This is achieved by having cold condensing coils just above the components being cleaned.
Versatility:
Vapour degreasing solvents come in various types and compositions, allowing them to target specific types of contaminants. For example, alcohol-based solvents are effective at cleaning glass surfaces due to their ability to dissolve and evaporate quickly without leaving streaks.
Chemical Interactions:
Vapour degreasing solvents can undergo chemical reactions with certain types of substances, leading to their removal or transformation. This can be especially useful for removing tough stains that might not be easily removed through simple dissolution.
Compatibility:
Vapour degreasing solvents are often formulated to be compatible with specific materials, ensuring that they don’t damage the surfaces being cleaned. This makes them versatile for use on a wide range of surfaces.
Rinsing Action:
Vapour degreasing solvents can also act as rinsing agents, carrying away dissolved dirt and contaminants when they evaporate. This helps prevent redeposition of dirt onto cleaned surfaces.
Overall, the combination of excellent solvency, low surface tension, nonpolar properties, heat assistance, minimal residue, and controlled vaporization make vapor degreasing solvents highly effective for a wide range of cleaning applications.
It’s important to note that while solvents are effective cleaning agents, their use should be handled with care. Some solvents can be toxic, flammable, or harmful to human health and the environment, so proper precautions and guidelines should be followed when using them. Additionally, choosing the right solvent for a specific cleaning task is crucial to achieve optimal results without causing damage to the surfaces being cleaned.
Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and very low Global Warming Potential (GWP) solvent cleaner for high performance vapour degreasing
ProSolv® 5408e has been developed to provide superior critical cleaning performance for manufacturers of electronic and electrical components. High Solvency (KB Value 98) for removal of organic residues, compatible with organic and synthetic oils and most plastics and metals.
ProSolv® 5408e is a high-performance solvent cleaner used for sustainable and future proof vapour degreasing. It has a GWP of less than 1, with a 100 year Integrated Time Horizon (ITH). Soft on the environment and safe for users, it offers improved cleaning at lower costs.
ProSolv® 5408e ticks all the boxes and is the perfect profile for a modern vapour degreasing solvent. Exceptionally low surface tension to penetrate micron sized holes and close contact surfaces. Sustainable and secure for the future. Non-carcinogenic, low boiling point, economical with energy with low solvent losses, faster production, reduced costs, easy handling.
EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL
- Fast precision cleaning with short cycle times.
- Can be used in any vapour degreasing equipment, lower energy consumption and lower maintenance.
- Ideal replacement for Trichloroethylene, n-Propyl Bromide, Perchloroethylene and HCFC based solvents.
- Stable with no additives, no testing required.
- Improved productivity, parts exit the machine cool, dry and spot-free with no drying required.
- Minimal non-volatile residue (>10ppm).
- High density solution, excellent for ultrasonic cleaning.
- Mid-range boiling point (46°C).
- Very low surface tension for penetration into the micron level crevices and holes, efficient cleaning in tight to reach places and complex geometries.
- Easy process monitoring with minimal effort and minimal waste generation, easy reclamation for reuse.
- High Solvency (KB Value 98) for a variety of contaminants.
- Compatible with a broad range of substrates.
SAFE FOR USERS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
- Safe for the environment, Zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP).
- Very low Global Warming Potential (GWP)
- GWP of less than 1, AR4 100yr Integrated Time Horizon (ITH).
- Non-hazardous for transportation.
- Non-flammable (No Flash Point).
- Not classified as a carcinogen
Listed above are some of the benefits from using ProSolv® 5408e, a sustainable vapour degreasing solvent for precision cleaning and an economical and efficient replacement solution for cleaning systems using older legacy solvents, which are now either banned or being phased out. EnviroTech Europe have many years of experience and our experts are available to guide you through your solvent cleaner changeover procedures or to advise on equipment.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website https://www.envirotech-europe.com/prosolv5408e for information about other uses and applications for ProSolv 5408e.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our website contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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The best in vapour degreasing, corrosion protection, metal cleaning and surface treatment
EnviroTech Europe are specialists in metal, plastic and other substrate cleaning, pretreatment and protection.
We offer a range of approved products tailored to your industry, which are cost effective, energy efficient, safe for operators and the environment.
Our products are used in the following industries:
- Electronics and Electrical
- Environmental
- General Cleaning
- Industrial and Manufacturing
- Marine and Maritime
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medical Device Manufacturing
- Military
- Motorsport
- Power Generation
- Railways and Automotive
PRODUCTS:
EnSolv CC-A Vapour Degreasing Solvents For Precision Metal Cleaning:
A family of environmentally friendly precision vapour degreasing and cleaning solvents for the aerospace, precision engineering, medical, optical and electronic industries.
ProSolv 5408e Environmentally Sustainable High Performance Vapour Degreasing Solvent:
Zero ODP (ozone depletion) and GWP (global warming potential) – Sustainable and secure for the future.
SuperCORR A Advanced lubricant and corrosion protection compound:
Specialist barrier film corrosion protection products, based on synthetic materials to provide safe, effective, environmentally friendly solutions to lubrication and corrosion problems.
Aquus CL-One General Purpose Industrial Cleaning Agent:
A non-toxic, water based surfactant system which exhibits a combination of characteristics not found in any comparable commercially available system.
Clarea Industrial Degreasing Solvents:
Non chlorinated, industrial wipe, brush, dip and immersion cleaning solvents for removing dirt, oil, grease and other contaminants without causing harm or leaving residue.
VOC Exposure Monitoring:
We have portable test equipment that logs the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC’s) content in the air from various strategic positions around your degreasing equipment, including the operator position
FURTHER INFORMATION
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our website contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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Industrial solvent cleaners
Clarea® general purpose industrial solvent cleaners are safe for users and the environment
Clarea® non-chlorinated industrial solvent cleaners are compatible with all metals, composites and most plastics used to remove dirt, oil, grease, or other contaminants from surfaces without causing harm or leaving residue. They are used as immersion cleaners for component cleaning in manufacturing and engineering industries and as wipe cleaners for large surface areas prior to painting or powder coating. The environmental concerns and health hazards of the chlorinated solvents used as industrial degreasing agents has led to the formulation of this EnviroTech range of safer cleaning solvents.
What to consider when choosing suitable solvent cleaning products?
Solvents used for cleaning must be highly refined and leave no residues on drying. They need to be highly effective removing oils and soils without causing damage or corrosion of the parts or components being processed and leave minimal residues.
Cleaning specifications vary widely from very demanding automotive and aerospace applications to less demanding applications where critical cleaning is not needed such as pre-used parts or assemblies from the transportation, aerospace, or manufacturing equipment sectors. Heavily contaminated when removed from service these must be free of oils, soils, grease and dirt before disassembly prior to refurbishing and rebuilding. Much of this work will be manual and the considerations for the safety of operators, hand wiping or brush cleaning is paramount.
Clarea® products are aliphatic hydrocarbon based low odour degreasing solvents with specified flash points. They will remove oils, greases, hydraulic fluids cutting fluids and a wide variety of hydrocarbon based protective coatings. Clarea® solvents can be safely used with all metals and composites and most plastic and paint finishes.
Clarea® HC40 is low odour degreasing fast drying solvent with a flash point of 40°C. It is suitable for ultrasonic and dip systems and can be used with brush or in hand-wipe processes.
Clarea® HC462 is a degreasing solvent with a flash point over 60°C. It is suitable for hand-wipe applications when used externally.
EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL
- Versatile and cost-effective solutions for all your industrial cleaning
- Minimal odour and low toxicity for operators
- Multipurpose uses can reduce the inventory of cleaning fluids.
- Flexible uses – evaporation rates suitable for hand wipe, spray, or immersion tank cleaning
- Clarea HC40 for brush and hand wiping, air dries. Flash point 40°C
- Clarea HC62 for spray or immersion cleaning Flash point 62°C
- Contains no chlorine, other halogens or stabilisers
- Compatible with all metals and composites and most plastics
- Excellent pre-cleaner for paint or powder coatings
- Safe, reliable, environmentally friendly cleaning
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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Solvent Cleaner For Electronics
High performance solvent cleaner for electronics and electrical components
Evolving legislation by governments worldwide has resulted in the need for new and original formulations to be offered for use in solvent cleaning and vapour degreasing processes. Companies must continue to comply with legislation for protection of the environment and safety of operators who may be exposed to harmful substances. In applications where formulated blends of halogenated solvents have been used very effectively in the past, these are now required by changes in legislation to be phased out of use.
With a wealth of experience in this field, EnviroTech Europe have developed a new solvent cleaning formulation based on recent research, a replacement for the “old” technology, which has been found to perform just as effectively without the negative environmental, health and safety issues.
Near Zero OPD and GWP solvent blend for high performance vapour degreasing solvent cleaner
ProSolv 5408e is the perfect replacement for trichloroethylene, nPB (n-propyl bromide), perchloroethylene or other flammable solvents used in general engineering cleaning processes.
ProSolv 5408e is a high-performance solvent cleaner used for sustainable and future proof vapour degreasing. Soft on the environment and safe for users, it offers improved cleaning at lower costs. Non-carcinogenic, low boiling point, economical with energy with low solvent losses, faster production, reduced costs, easy handling.
ProSolv 5408e has been developed to provide superior critical cleaning performance for manufacturers of electronic and electrical components. High Solvency (KB Value 98) for removal of organic residues, compatible with organic and synthetic oils and most plastics and metals,
non-flammable, with low ozone depletion (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP).
Listed above are some of the benefits from using ProSolv 5408e, a sustainable vapour degreasing solvent for cleaning and defluxing in the electronics and electrical components industry and an economical and efficient replacement solution for vapour / vapour liquid cleaning systems using older legacy solvents, which are now either banned or being phased out. EnviroTech Europe have many years of experience and our experts are available to guide you through your solvent cleaner changeover procedures or to advise on equipment.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website www.envirotech-europe.com for information about other uses and applications for our vapour degreasing and cleaning products.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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Solvent Degreasing and Metal Cleaning
Solvent Degreasing and Metal Cleaning –
Future proof Vapour Degreasing from EnviroTech Europe
Innovation driven by legislation
Vapour degreasing, with or with-out ultrasonics, is the oldest, simplest and most effective solvent degreasing and metal cleaning process used today. It has, until recently, been subject to little change since it was first invented in the early part of the last century. In the UK, Europe, United States and other advanced industrialized economies increasingly stringent legislation to control emissions of VOCs, Global Warming Compounds, Ozone Depleting Compounds, and those compounds associated with human health concerns has led to new formulations for precision cleaning solvents.
Cleaning systems have had to change too. With increased legislation concerning the regulation of health and environmental safety, uses of solvents have been targeted and alternatives are encouraged by the relevant authorities and law makers, often without serious consideration of unintended consequences. For example, water-based cleaning is the obvious alternative but this has many disadvantages compared to vapour degreasing as although the machines are simple and relatively cheap the processes require multiple tanks for immersion or spray processing or long programmed cycles in batch machines for cleaning, rinsing and drying. Water based processes are slow, energy intensive and occupy more floor space than vapour degreasing equivalent where only one tank with small footprint is needed delivering shorter process times and most importantly using minimal energy. Then there is the disposal concern as the used water cannot just be disposed of by pouring it down a drain.
The ideal cleaning process would be vapour degreasing and cleaning with water, but due to the physical characteristics of the vapour/steam and the inability to carry surfactants to remove the oil, grease and soils and the difficulty of rinsing and especially drying this will only ever be a dream.
Halogenated hydrocarbons are the solvents of choice for vapour degreasing and cleaning. The process is essentially simple. A tank with a sump to contain the solvent, heaters at the base and condensation coils around the top section to control the height of the vapour is all that is needed. When heated in the sump halogenated solvents produce, in most cases, a saturated vapour between 3 and 4 times heavier than air at a temperature greater than the ambient temperature of the parts to be cleaned. This allows the solvent vapour to condense on the surface of the parts. The condensate dissolves the contaminants such as oil, greases, flux, and soils returning the used solvent into the sump of the machine for recycling into vapour which continuously condenses onto the parts until they have achieved vapour temperature when, with no further condensation, the process is complete. Parts removed from the cleaning machines are very clean, warm and dry.
The most common halogenated solvents, in use for commercial purposes, are non-flammable so present no risk in this process. Perchloroethylene, used mainly for dry cleaning, methylene chloride previously used widely in paint strippers, 1,1,1- trichloroethane and trichloroethylene used for vapour degreasing were the original materials used based on chlorine chemistry. However continuing concern about the environmental impact and danger to operators by exposure to chlorine-based solvents, especially trichloroethylene, has led to a continuing search for safer alternatives, such as ProSolv 5408e, a trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene based solvent mixture that is non-flammable.
As with all legislation for chemical use regulation and restrictions drive development of associated processes and equipment. The most important developments in vapour degreasing cleaning machines to use solvents for vapour degreasing use two different approaches and raise difficult questions as to which is the best most economical and simplest in use.
The single tank hermetically sealed machines favoured by mainly German manufacturers uses a process tank to contain the solvent and a separate storage tank/vapour generator. Baskets with parts to be cleaned are loaded from the top and lowered into the process tank. A lid then closes over the tank and is hermetically sealed. Solvent is pumped into the process tank. Baskets are immersed in the solvent where agitation, ultrasonics or pumped liquid is circulated through the parts. When the immersion process is complete solvent is pumped to the storage tank and vapour fed to the process tank from a vapour generator for rinsing and drying. Condensing coils/panels controlling the vapour height are linked to coils located within the vapour zone which, when the cycle is complete, collapse the vapour. The process tank is emptied. The saturated air/solvent from the process tank is then recycled through carbon absorption units to remove traces of solvent from the air until the concentration is below 2 grams per cubic meter when the lid opens automatically for the basket of parts, clean and dry, to be removed and replaced with a further basket.
Variations within the hermetically sealed tank are possible using sprays of cold or hot condensed solvent, immersion with or without ultrasonics and revolving baskets to cover most of the problems experienced when processing machined and fabricated parts. Continuous external distillation of the contents of the vapour generator is also an option depending on contamination.
The alternative technology is much simpler and cheaper and less time consuming using well trained techniques. This is favoured by UK based manufacturers. The multilevel system shown in the diagram uses a standard vapour degreasing tank design with a sealed loading section above the process tank.
Work baskets are fed to the load section from a hoist or conveyor. The loading door is then pneumatically sealed to hermetically isolate the process. The sealing lid on the process tank is opened and the basket lowered into the cleaning tank which can be simple vapour degreasing with vapour generator below or an offset generator can be used with the lower section being filled with clean solvent for immersion cleaning with or without ultrasonics or power sprays. Revolving baskets can also be added to improve cleaning in blind or through holes or oil ways in castings and fabrications.
When the process is complete the basket rises to the freeboard area where the condensation coils are located, and parts are allowed to drain and dry. The tank seal opens to allow the basket into the load section while the lid closes again across the process tank. A fan is then activated which produces a negative vacuum in the load area. The loading door is then partially opened to allow a flow of air through the loading section which is exhausted to atmosphere or can be recycled through carbon absorption systems if no external exhaust is preferred. As baskets entering the loading space contain parts drained and dried only very small amounts of solvent are carried in the exhausted air which is monitored to ensure compliance with local legislation. When this is achieved the door opens fully for removal of basket. The loading section can be fitted with top or side sealed doors allowing baskets to flow through on conveyor systems or be loaded from hoists. No solvent enters the work area. Both processes will produce parts cleaned to the highest standards but the choice of which offers the best solution needs a little more consideration.
The single tank process is complicated with the need to move liquids in the machine. It is relatively slow as the carbon adsorption process needs to remove high levels of solvent from the recirculated airstream from the process tank. This is inefficient as adsorption rates for carbon fall rapidly with increasing saturation. Final levels of solvent in the tank when the lid opens will be dragged into the workshop and the area in which the operator is working. Long process cycles reduce throughput.
The simpler multilevel systems where movement of liquids is not required are more efficient and offer much faster process times. Cost of manufacture is also cheaper as no liquid movement is involved. The extracted loading section ensures no leakage of solvent into the work area which offers complete safety for operators and factory staff. The disadvantage of the multilevel machine is the height of the equipment compared to the single tank machine. This will often require the equipment be installed in a pit for easy access.
Both designs of process machines fully comply with the emission regulations of the UK, EU and U.S authorities. Which to choose will depend on many factors which should be discussed with both the equipment and solvent suppliers who have the experience to advise on which offers the best process for the application. Equipment and solvent must work together and it is advisable to ensure that the suppliers work closely together to offer a package with high levels of responsible care and product stewardship to ensure the best and safest installation.
The vapour cleaning process still gives the highest levels of economical cleaning with minimum energy usage, low footprint on the factory floor, safety for the operator, and high production rates with low solvent usage or environmental impact. With the new generation of sealed cleaning machines its future as the process of choice is assured.
Envirotech Europe supplies three distinct products that use this process and we are happy to advise you on the best solution to suit your needs. Please visit our website to find out more about ProSolv 5408e, ProSolv and EnSolv® CC-A.
Image of Solvac hermetically sealed equipment by kind permission of CC Hydrosonics Ltd.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website www.envirotech-europe.com for information about other uses and applications for our vapour degreasing and cleaning products.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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Electrical corrosion protection
Electrical corrosion protection – Prevent hydrogen sulphide corrosion in electrical and electronic equipment
Super CORR A is a proven and cost-effective way to prevent or inhibit corrosion from destroying electronics and electrical components. Adverse work environments where corrosive gases such as hydrogen sulphide are found, can cause severe corrosion and rapid deterioration of electronic components and equipment, including connectors and switches.
Lost productivity and revenue caused by plant and equipment downtime
Corrosion, in its many forms, costs both private and public sectors hundreds of billions of Euros a year to repair or replace electrical, electronics, or avionic components because of failures caused by corrosion. While all metals corrode, due to a number of different factors, there is no simple or single solution to the overall corrosion problem. However there are some very cost effective and proven ways to prevent corrosion and failures caused by corrosion and thereby reducing or eliminating associated costs and increasing safety which should be foremost in the mind set of any preventative maintenance programme manager.
Super CORR Awas specifically designed to lubricate and prevent corrosion in electrical fittings and connectors; electrical and avionic harness assemblies and connectors; electrical and electronic switches; close tolerance and dissimilar metal components; lighting connectors and sockets. A unique non-flammable “self-healing” ultra-thin film lubricant with a proprietary corrosion preventive compound that will not harden or crack, is not a wax or oil-based product and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides or halogens.
Super CORR A inhibits corrosion caused by exposure to both fresh and salt water moisture as well as the corrosive vapours from Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), Ammonia (NH3), and Chlorine (CL12) based gases found in waste water and sewer treatment plants, pulp and paper mills and plants, chemical and petroleum plants, maritime industry, aircraft/airline industry, military equipment including ships, aircraft, and rolling stock, auto industry, farming and agriculture industry, and the list goes on.
Super CORR A extends the working life of electrical components and systems and other critical items by preventing the deterioration and/or failure caused by corrosion and can significantly reduce downtime, operating and maintenance costs as well as enhance safety. An ultra-thin film, water displacing lubricant and corrosion inhibiting compound Super CORR A has undergone extensive testing by Battelle Labs as well as the U.S. Air Force and meets MIL-DTL-87177B (revised MIL-L-87177A) specification. SuperCORR-A is used by NATO (NATO NSN 8030-99-226-6966) to protect avionic, electrical, electronics, electrical switches and connectors and components from corrosion in both the military and civilian aircraft. Savings for the U.S. government alone is estimated to be in excess of $50 million per year.
Super CORR Aprovides a superior lubrication coefficient and protects components against moisture, wear, general and fretting corrosion, surface static electricity, corona, and other electromigration problems. The super thin non-flammable lubricant film is only 7 microns (0.00028 inch) thick and is formulated to meet the RoHS directive. It is unexcelled in preventing deterioration and contamination on all surfaces of electronic equipment.
The question for you is: What is the cost of NOT using Super CORR A in your preventative maintenance programme?
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website https://www.envirotech-europe.com/supercorr-a for for information about other uses and applications for Super CORR A.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
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ProSolv®5408e vapour degreasing solvent cleaner for flushing refrigeration pipeline systems
Vapour degreasing solvent cleaner for flushing refrigeration pipeline systems
Concerns connected with the challenging environmental profile of traditional refrigerant gases have led to changes in legislation which are a driving factor in phase-outs and bans on the use of some gases to remove the older materials typically with high ozone depletion (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP). Systems can be replaced or refurbished with new models using compressors able to use more sustainable and acceptable gases. The evolving trend to newer refrigerants continues as the chemistries develop. The refrigerant R-22, which itself was an improvement over earlier refrigerants, is phased out and replaced with R-410a and other alternatives based on HFOs are being marketed.
Retrofitting of current refrigeration systems to accommodate the new developments is not straightforward as most refrigerant gases are not cross-compatible, so the necessity to completely remove all traces of the older versions from the system, including refrigerant lines is essential.
Of course, where possible it’s best simply to replace existing lines with new ones. However, it’s not always possible to do this cost-effectively, especially when the old piping runs under floors or through walls. In such cases thoroughly flushing existing pipework is especially important because even tiny traces of impurities left in the lines can damage new equipment and lead to compressor failure.
THE PERFECT SOLVENT FOR FLUSH CLEANING REFRIGERATION PIPEWORK
Your first step to proper pipework flushing is to select the right solvent. The solvent you choose must be highly effective at dissolving oil grease and other contaminants, to ensure that all residue is removed from the pipes and must be sustainable, environmentally friendly and comply with current legislation.
ProSolv 5408e is the ideal solution to this problem with a profile of properties and advantages making it perfect as your solvent of choice for refrigerant pipeline flushing.
• No flash point Non flammable liquid.
• High specific gravity gives a high soil suspension loading.
• High solvency strength with a KB value of 98.
• Powerful cleaning agent that can flush lines fast, dissolving oil and grease releasing soils from the inner surfaces of pipelines and fittings
• Volatile for fast evaporation. Removing ALL solvent from the pipework after flushing is vital, very volatile so evaporates fast.
• Environmentally responsible. ProSolv 5408e is sustainable and kind to the environment with very low global warming potential, zero ozone depleting potential (ODP).
• Safe for operators when user conditions are followed.
• Economical as it is easily distilled for reuse. No testing or stabilisation required.
PROCEDURE FOR FLUSH CLEANING REFRIGERANT PIPELINES WITH ProSolv®5408e
Of course, simply replacing old piping is the only way to be 100 percent sure that your lines are clean. But in retrofit situations where complete replacement is not possible, flushing the lines with ProSolv 5408e solvent is the best alternative solution for the protection and long working life of your refrigeration system upgrade.
1 – Remove any obstacles. Any equipment and components such as valve, filters and expansion valves that might obstruct the line should be removed prior to the purge.
2 – Pre-flush. This will dislodge any loose debris from the sides of the lines enabling more effective use of the solvent, oil free air or nitrogen at 120 psi is recommended. It’s also good practice to oscillate the pressure to encourage dislodging of debris.
3 – Preparing the pipework. Reducing the length of piping can be more effective due to the pressure loss in long lengths. Section the operation into 15 metre lengths by cutting pipes where necessary. One end of the pipe must be fitted with a connector for the pipe to the nitrogen supply while the exit needs a restrictor valve to allow variable pressures to shock loose particles from internal walls.
IMPORTANT – Flushing with solvent. Refer to ProSolv 5408e Safety Data Sheets for advice on operator protection using solvents.
4 – Safe working. Full PPE with suitable eye protection goggles and gloves must be worn. Solvent fumes are heavier than air and exposure levels can easily be reached working in pits or enclosed spaces. Always institute a ‘buddy system’ and use air fed face masks with attached line.
5 – Delivering solvent. Use a drum pump electric or hand operated with a flexible tube connection for delivering the solvent to the open end of the pipe or tubing to flush the internal surfaces. Using a fresh drum of ProSolv®5408e connect drum pump and the delivery tube to the end of pipe/tube to be cleaned using a pre-fitted screwed or compression fitting.
6 – Drainage and Testing. The drainage end of the pipe or tube should be fitted with a flexible tube into a tank or drain sump allowing samples to be taken in a glass bottle or tube at regular intervals to be sure when no particles or soils are being expelled. The colour of the solvent will change as oil and soluble contaminants are removed and flushing must continue until the flow is totally clear and water white.
7 – Post-flush. ProSolv 5408e solvent is volatile so will dry completely using an oil free airline or nitrogen supply connected to the end of the cleaned pipe/tubing.
8 – A wipe of the pipe/tubing surface at the inlet and outlet using solvent saturated lint free cloth completes the cleaning. If not connected immediately to other parts of the system enclose both ends of cleaned item to prevent recontamination.
Used ProSolv 5408e should not be reused for flushing but can be recovered for reuse by a simple distillation process. Removal from site should use licensed disposal companies.
Further information:
For more information and advice please contact us by telephone on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
ProSolv 5408e is not just flushing refrigeration pipeline systems,
https://www.vapour-degreasing.com/prosolv5408e/ for information about other applications.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
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VOC Exposure Monitoring
Exposure monitoring – Reassurance that your equipment is functioning within agreed safety margins.
Envirotech Europe has always considered it has a duty of care to its loyal and new customers and VOC monitoring is an issue we take seriously. As an employer, it’s your job to ensure that you correctly control the personal exposure levels of staff to a wide range of chemicals, substances and even radiation.
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 places a duty on the employers to undertake assessments to evaluate the risks to health when using hazardous substances in the workplace.
We have portable test equipment that logs the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC’s) content in the air from various strategic positions around your degreasing equipment, including the operator position.
This kit is based on very accurate photoionization detectors (PID) designed to constantly log the quality of the atmosphere and keep your workers safe.
We would generally test for a full shift, analyse the data and report back within a few weeks with any suggestions for improvement.
Reassurance that your equipment is functioning within agreed safety margins and that any emissions into the working environment surrounding the machine are within prescribed limits.
A check that the ProSolv 5408e, EnSolv® CC-A or ProSolv system is operating economically and with the minimum of wastage. We can still carry out the testing for you even if you are using an alternative solvent.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For more information please contact: sales@envirotech-europe.com
Please visit www.envirotech-europe.com for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our website contact form.
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Vapour degreasing solvent for precision parts cleaning
EnSolv® CC-A vapour degreasing solvent for precision parts cleaning
The EnSolv® CC-A formulation for precision parts cleaning responds to the need for high performance vapour degreasing solvents for critical cleaning in general engineering, aerospace, medical optical and electrical industries.
EnSolv® CC-A removes cutting oils, lubricants, lapping compounds grinding pastes and water based cutting oils or fluids. This complex synergistic blend utilises environmentally compliant solvents combined with selected surfactants to remove oils and lubricants to the highest standards for critical cleaning applications and releases and suspends inorganic solids and soils such as fingerprints, polishing compounds and grinding paste from finely finished and highly polished surfaces such as stainless steel and plated parts, optical lenses and components for medical appliances.
IMPROVES PRODUCTIVITY AND OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
Suitable for processing temperature sensitive components as well as the conventional engineering substrates. The very low surface tension cleans through holes on castings and penetrates between overlapping metal spot welds eliminating oil leaching in paint and powder coatings during oven curing.
Easy handling – Cleaned components are dry and comfortable to handle immediately at the ideal temperature for painting or powder coating. No time lost waiting for parts to cool which allows immediate quality control testing or assembly of machined parts due to minimal dimensional changes.
Cleaning cycles reduced, productivity improved with output doubled compared to conventional solvents.
Minimises flash rusting on mild steel cleaned components due to the advanced stabiliser/inhibitor package compared to alternative formulations.
Compatible with mixed metal components. No staining of yellow metals, bronze, copper, aluminium.
Reduced maintenance – unique additive suspends contaminants in boiling solvent sump preventing tar formation and continuously cleans heating surfaces. Longer periods between cleanouts reduces labour costs and solvent losses.
Talk to us about whether EnSolv® CC-A is the best choice for your application. Advice, literature, changeover instructions are all available to make the change quickly, easily and at no extra cost of usage.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website https://www.envirotech-europe.com/ensolvcc-a for information about other uses and applications.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
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