Beware of galvanic corrosion if you switch from using a solvent to an aqueous cleaner! Your metals may be in jeopardy…

What is Galvanic Corrosion?

Also called bimetallic corrosion, galvanic corrosion is an electrochemical process in which one metal corrodes when it has electrical contact with a different metal under water in the presence of an electrolyte.

Cleaning Metals Using a Vapor-Degreasing Solvent

Vapor degreasing is the process of using a boiling solvent at the bottom of a vapor degreaser to create vapor that condenses on a part and dissolves any soils. As the solvent cools and condenses further, it drips off the part and carries all dissolved solids with it. The solvent drips back into the boiling solvent at the bottom of the vapor degreaser to be recycled and used again on the next part.

A single compact machine performs all the steps necessary for precision cleaning (rinsing, scrubbing and drying) with minimal effort from the machine operator and without the use of water. Instead of water, it’s the solvent that does the heavy lifting.

Cleaning Metals Using an Aqueous Cleaner

You may want to switch from a vapor-degreasing solvent to an aqueous cleaner for a more effective clean. There is potential for vapors to escape from a vapor-degreaser when lifting out parts. Instead of using one-step process, aqueous cleaners rinse, scrub, and dry parts separately.

However, there is a higher risk of galvanic corrosion if you decide to use an aqueous cleaner because it involves water and a surfactant, such as soap or detergent. If you prefer to use an aqueous cleaner to clean metals, here are some ways you can prevent galvanic corrosion:

  • Do not combine dissimilar metals
  • Electronically isolate one metal from another
  • Make the anode large and the cathode small
  • Eliminate the electrolyte

Is an Aqueous Cleaner right for you?

Ecolink offers an aqueous cleaner called Daraclean and has been supplying it for more than 15 years. Daraclean aqueous parts cleaner is compatible with your exact parts and cleaning criteria. It also has a multitude of Spec Approvals and certifications, such as Allied Signal, Boeing, and Mil-C-29602.

To see the full list of spec approvals, refer to Daraclean Aqueous Cleaner Spec Approvals.

Benefits of Using Daraclean:

  • Works with most application methods and equipment for increased flexibility
  • Conforms to AMS 2644 Class 2, ASME BPVC and, all other major aerospace requirements
  • Effectively cleans a wide variety of soils and contaminates from parts
  • Approved for NDT pre-cleaning due to low residue and low silicates
  • Added corrosion inhibitors protect equipment and parts from rust
  • Low foam level
  • Multi-metal safe

For more information on how to purchase Daraclean, call (800) 886-8240 or email info@ecolink.com.