Choosing Between Aqueous and Solvent-Based Systems: A Guide for Effective Industrial Parts Cleaning

Maintaining clean parts is important for maintaining a neat and tidy industrial space. From ensuring the smooth operation of machinery to preparing surfaces for further processing, effective parts-cleaning solutions are crucial. Two primary systems dominate the industrial cleaning space: aqueous cleaning systems and solvent-based cleaning systems. Selecting the right system relies on understanding their distinct characteristics and aligning them with specific cleaning requirements.

This article delves into the uses of both aqueous and solvent-based cleaning for industrial parts cleaning providing a guide to aid industrial professionals in making informed decisions for their parts cleaning needs.

Aqueous Cleaning Systems: 

Aqueous cleaning systems utilize water-based cleaning solutions and an industrial aqueous parts washer to remove contaminants from parts. These systems typically have the following:

●     A large tank that holds the cleaning solution and the parts to be cleaned.

●     A basket or conveyor belt that moves the parts through the cleaning solution, ensuring thorough exposure.

●     In spray cleaning systems, pumps circulate the cleaning solution and direct it through nozzles for targeted cleaning.

●     Heating the cleaning solution can enhance its effectiveness for certain applications.

●     A filtration system removes contaminants from the cleaning solution, allowing for its reusability and extending its lifespan.

There are three primary types of aqueous cleaning methods:

●     Immersion Cleaning: Parts are entirely submerged in the cleaning solution within the tank. This method is suitable for removing loose contaminants and cleaning simple geometries.

●     Spray Cleaning: A pump circulates the cleaning solution and directs it through nozzles, spraying the parts under pressure. This method offers a more aggressive cleaning action and is effective for removing stubborn contaminants from complex parts.

●     Ultrasonic Cleaning: High-frequency sound waves create microscopic cavitation bubbles within the cleaning solution, dislodging even tightly adhered contaminants from intricate parts.

Solvent-Based Cleaning Systems: Powerful Cleaning Potential

Solvent-based cleaning systems employ organic solvents to dissolve and remove contaminants from parts. Two prevalent types of solvent-based cleaning systems exist:

●     Vapor Degreasers: Parts are suspended within a closed chamber filled with heated solvent vapors. As the solvent boils, the vapors condense on the cooler parts, dissolving contaminants which drip into a collection reservoir.

●     Cold Cleaning Tanks: Parts are submerged in a tank containing liquid solvent. This method is often used for manual cleaning operations and requires proper ventilation due to potential solvent fumes.

Comparing Aqueous and Solvent-Based Systems

Choosing between aqueous and solvent-based systems necessitates a careful evaluation of their strengths and limitations across various aspects:

Cleaning Power:

●     Aqueous Systems: It is generally effective for moderate to heavy-duty cleaning depending on the chosen cleaning solution and method. For heavily soiled parts, incorporating features like high pressure or ultrasonic cleaning can enhance effectiveness.

●     Solvent-Based Systems: Offer exceptional cleaning power for a broad spectrum of contaminants, including oils, greases, and even baked-on residues.

Material Compatibility:

●     Aqueous Systems: It is generally compatible with most metals and some plastics. However, certain cleaning solutions might require material compatibility checks to avoid potential corrosion.

●     Solvent-Based Systems: Material compatibility is a crucial consideration. Certain solvents can damage plastics and some metals. Consulting with the solvent manufacturer and conducting compatibility tests are essential.

Environmental Impact:

●     Aqueous Systems: Considered an environmentally friendly option. Water-based solutions pose minimal environmental threats, and proper filtration systems allow for solution reuse, reducing waste.

●     Solvent-Based Systems: It raises environmental concerns due to potential solvent emissions during operation and disposal. Stricter regulations govern solvent usage and disposal, requiring specialized equipment and adherence to environmental protocols.

Safety:

●     Aqueous Systems: They generally pose fewer safety risks due to minimal fumes and flammability concerns. However, proper handling of cleaning solutions and adherence to safety protocols are still necessary.

●     Solvent-Based Systems: They require stricter safety measures due to the potential health hazards associated with solvent exposure. Workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, respirators, and safety glasses to minimize exposure to harmful fumes.

Cost:

●     Aqueous Systems: These lower operating costs in the long run. Water-based solutions are generally less expensive than solvents, and the potential for solution reuse through filtration further reduces operational expenses.

●     Solvent-Based Systems: These have higher operating costs due to the initial purchase of solvents and the additional costs associated with proper disposal.

Conclusion

Selecting the proper cleaning system necessitates understanding both the industrial aqueous parts washer and solvent-based system.  Carefully evaluating factors like cleaning requirements, material compatibility, environmental regulations, safety considerations, and cost implications is essential for making an informed decision.