What is a
parts washer?
A machine that
is used in manufacturing, or
maintenance type operations to clean dirty parts
or dirty components. Parts washer types include
cold cleaning, vapor degreasers, and
conveyor type degreasers.
Cleaning methods
associated 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.
Why are parts
washers a safety concern?
Parts
washers utilize solutions that eventually
become used up and must be disposed of. Some
used
parts washer cleaning solutions may be considered a special
hazardous waste and require special
industrial processing.
Are Hot
Water and Detergents really able to clean as
well as solvents
ABSOLUTELY!, in many
cases hot water and detergent can clean
better then solvents, while leaving no residue or
coating on your parts. Water based parts
washers can effectively clean a wide variety of
items ranging from small computer components
to large transmissions.
Is water
based parts cleaning more expensive than using
solvents to clean my parts?
NO, most companies see
a huge savings when they convert to water
based parts cleaning. Water and detergents are
usually cheaper and there is normally no disposal cost.
The environmental fees and costs associated
with solvent usage are totally
eliminated. Water based solutions also have a
longer cycle life, saving your company
money on
multiple levels.
Are water
based cleaning wastes a problem to deal
with?
NO, water based
cleaning waste is much simpler to deal with.
Usually the cleaning solution can be emptied
into the sewer system in most
cities.
How often do I have to
change out the parts washer cleaning
solution?
Cleaning solution changing schedules can
vary from company to company. Solution
replacement times will vary depending upon
the amount and type of usage. A person using
the parts washer to remove light oils and
surface dirt may only be required to change
the cleaning solution every 30 days or more.
While a person cleaning a lot of heavily
soiled, greasy parts may be required to
change cleaning solution every 14 days or
less. Cleaning solution replacement times
will depend upon your specific application.
