A number of solvents can be used to remove grime off parts, aid in sanding, and for general cleaning; however, only a handful easily meet the needs of companies without creating extensive overhead. Acetone cleaner is one of the less expensive and least regulated choices on the market today. As one of the simplest ketones, acetone is a colorless, flammable liquid that can be mixed with water. The compound serves as a typical building block in the field of organic chemistry, but has numerous other purposes throughout the world. Companies apply acetone cleaner to thin polyester resin, dissolve superglue, and as a heavy duty degreaser. It is also added as a volatile component in certain paints or varnishes. The applications of this particular organic compound are endless and it has become a dependable, cost effective solvent for various industries due to the offered versatility.
Using Acetone as a Solvent
Acetone is considered to be a solvent since it can be used for general cleaning or heavy degreasing jobs. Solvents are compounds capable of dissolving grease, paint, or additional organic substances from the surface of an item. They are designed to work on a variety of surfaces with each having its own set of handling practices and limitations. Solvents are commonly used to remove undesirable contaminants from metal, plastic, and glass surfaces. Acetone cleaner has these specific benefits:
- Effective
- Low Toxicity
- Safer to Use
- Inexpensive
- Less Regulated
- Easy to Obtain
- Water Soluble
These benefits make it an ideal choice at times when a mild solvent is necessary to remove grease, oil, dirt, and glue. Acetone cleaner has a lower boiling point than alternative options and must be handled carefully as it is flammable. The vapor density of this cleaning agent is far less making it a good choice for use in an open environment as fewer vapors will remain hanging in the air during use.
Acetone is not considered to be a hazardous air pollutant or volatile organic compound. A lower surface tension also prevents the solution from beading up on a surface and makes it easy to dissolve contaminants from hard to reach places. While an abundance of benefits are provided with acetone cleaner, the substance is still considered to be a chemical meaning safe handling practices need to be followed. Companies or individuals using acetone cleaner should take the necessary precautions to prevent inhalation, consumption, and absorption. The risk is minimal when protective gear is part of defined handling practices.
Additional precautions are necessary prior to using acetone cleaner due to its flammability properties. The organic compound is often included in pre-made solutions with additional agents; however, it can be used directly for cleaning. Degreasing or degumming of machinery is one of its many top uses along with elimination of contaminants or paint from metal or glass. Do not use the cleaner on items capable of dissolving such as fabric and always apply it in a well-ventilated area.
If you are looking for an industrial or commercial strength acetone product for your business, please call (800) 886-8240 or email info@ecolink.com to order hassle-free and save money. We guarantee a response within 24 hours.
Ecolink Team
