Parts Washer FAQ
( dispelling the myths about water based cleaning and parts washers )


Q: What is a parts washer?
A: Most parts washers are used in manufacturing, or maintenance type operations to clean parts or components. Parts washers types include cold cleaning, vapor degreasers, and conveyor type degreasers. Cleaning methods used with parts washers:

Solvents: Solvents work by dissolving dirt. Solvents include petroleum based solvents such as mineral spirits, and naptha, along with organic type solvents like trichloroethane, trichlorethylene, benzene, and xylenes.
Aqueous Cleaning: Aqueous cleaners are normally pH neutral or alkaline water based solutions that break down and remove dirt from part surfaces using detergent and hot water.



Q: Why are parts washers a concern?
A: Parts washers utilize solutions that eventually become used up and must be disposed of. Used parts washer cleaning solutions are sometimes considered a special waste because they may be hazardous and are an industrial process waste.



Q: Are Hot Water and Detergents really able to clean as well as solvents
A: ABSOLUTELY!, in many cases hot water and detergent clean even better then solvents, leaving no residue or coating on your materials. Water based parts washers can effectively clean a variety of items ranging from small computer components to large transmissions.



Q: Is water based cleaning more expensive than using solvents to clean my parts?
A: NO, most companies see a huge savings when they convert to water based cleaning. Water and detergents are cheaper, usually there is no disposal cost, and the environmental fees and costs associated with solvent usage is totally eliminated. Water based solutions have a longer cycle life meaning savings on multiple levels for your business.



Q: Are water based cleaning wastes a problem to deal with?
A: NO, water based cleaning waste is much simpler to deal with. Usually the cleaning solution can be emptied into the sewer system in most municipalities.