Chromium alloys are metallic alloys that contain at least 10.5% chromium by mass. Chromium is a lustrous, shiny, silver chemical element that is frequently found in rare, aesthetic pieces such as designer jewelry, as well as everyday pieces such as stainless steel equipment housing that is found on the front of many residential appliances.
Depending on where chromium alloys are used (e.g., a commercial kitchen) they can accumulate a significant layer of grease in a relatively short period of time. In order to clean away the accumulation, a professional, stainless steel compliant degreaser is often sprayed on or wiped on the surface. Or, alternatively, the soiled pieces are placed in a parts washing system whose cleaning agent complies with the chemical structure of chromium.
Two Configurations of Parts Washing Systems
Two types of parts washing systems are generally used for the metal degreasing process for chromium alloys: automatic parts washing systems that move workpieces through the cleaning chamber using a belt style operation that resembles a conveyor belt, and single-batch washing systems that thoroughly wash one batch at a time.
The second option is generally preferred for precision, high-performance parts that must be exceptionally clean (e.g. aerospace parts and auto parts), while the first option is an excellent solution for parts that have basic cleaning needs and must be processed quickly. The effectiveness of either process, of course, depends on the thoroughness of the metal degreasing process that is applied, both in terms of duration and degreasing agent.
Can Furnaces Perform the Metal Degreasing Process?
Chromium alloys are typically placed inside furnaces, such as atmosphere-controlled continuous furnaces, vacuum furnaces, and bell annealers, to facilitate a specific type of heat treating, such as: brazing, annealing, hardening, and/or stress relieving. In most cases, the metal workpieces are thoroughly cleaned before they enter the furnace to prevent traces of oxide from forming on the surface of the pieces while heat is applied.
Grease left on the surface of a piece, for example, could form a stable layer of oxide when the heat treating process reaches it peak temperature, and then subsides. Even so, all is not lost if this happens. The resultant oxide can be sandblasted, brushed away, or ground away, using special metal restoration tools and machines. However, with that said, such processes essentially increase turnaround time and are therefore undesirable in most cases, especially when an order is in the midst of being processed for a client.
The Metal Degreasing Process is the Best Option
Whether you need to degrease a chromium alloy to prepare it for heat treatment or simply to keep it looking great for the appearances in your company or organization, Ecolink can supply solutions that are as friendly to the environment as they are to your chromium alloy cleaning processes. To get started on receiving the best, professional grade degreaser for your needs, please call us today at (800) 563-1305, or use our contact form, to speak with one of our product specialists.
The Metal Degreasing Process for Chromium Alloys: Can You Use a Furnace?
/in Degreasing Agents/by Industrial DegreasersChromium alloys are metallic alloys that contain at least 10.5% chromium by mass. Chromium is a lustrous, shiny, silver chemical element that is frequently found in rare, aesthetic pieces such as designer jewelry, as well as everyday pieces such as stainless steel equipment housing that is found on the front of many residential appliances.
Depending on where chromium alloys are used (e.g., a commercial kitchen) they can accumulate a significant layer of grease in a relatively short period of time. In order to clean away the accumulation, a professional, stainless steel compliant degreaser is often sprayed on or wiped on the surface. Or, alternatively, the soiled pieces are placed in a parts washing system whose cleaning agent complies with the chemical structure of chromium.
Two Configurations of Parts Washing Systems
Two types of parts washing systems are generally used for the metal degreasing process for chromium alloys: automatic parts washing systems that move workpieces through the cleaning chamber using a belt style operation that resembles a conveyor belt, and single-batch washing systems that thoroughly wash one batch at a time.
The second option is generally preferred for precision, high-performance parts that must be exceptionally clean (e.g. aerospace parts and auto parts), while the first option is an excellent solution for parts that have basic cleaning needs and must be processed quickly. The effectiveness of either process, of course, depends on the thoroughness of the metal degreasing process that is applied, both in terms of duration and degreasing agent.
Can Furnaces Perform the Metal Degreasing Process?
Chromium alloys are typically placed inside furnaces, such as atmosphere-controlled continuous furnaces, vacuum furnaces, and bell annealers, to facilitate a specific type of heat treating, such as: brazing, annealing, hardening, and/or stress relieving. In most cases, the metal workpieces are thoroughly cleaned before they enter the furnace to prevent traces of oxide from forming on the surface of the pieces while heat is applied.
Grease left on the surface of a piece, for example, could form a stable layer of oxide when the heat treating process reaches it peak temperature, and then subsides. Even so, all is not lost if this happens. The resultant oxide can be sandblasted, brushed away, or ground away, using special metal restoration tools and machines. However, with that said, such processes essentially increase turnaround time and are therefore undesirable in most cases, especially when an order is in the midst of being processed for a client.
The Metal Degreasing Process is the Best Option
Whether you need to degrease a chromium alloy to prepare it for heat treatment or simply to keep it looking great for the appearances in your company or organization, Ecolink can supply solutions that are as friendly to the environment as they are to your chromium alloy cleaning processes. To get started on receiving the best, professional grade degreaser for your needs, please call us today at (800) 563-1305, or use our contact form, to speak with one of our product specialists.
Drop-in Replacement Option for PD 680 & A-A-59601 Solvents
/in Industrial Degreasers/by Industrial DegreasersNeed a Conforming Product to MIL PRF 680B Type II? The Safe Alternative is Parts Kleen II
Parts Kleen II does an exceptional job as a drop-in replacement for cleaners with PRF 680 (Formerly PD 680) or A-A-59601 requirements and is an effective option when your Technical Order does not require a product qualified to MIL-PRF-680 specification. Offering the industrial cleaning strength of our qualified solvent degreasers, Parts Kleen II is not only potent but guarantees a high standard of safety with its high flash point (145°F). With Ecolink’s fast and easy processing, you can rest assured the product will be headed your way the same day you place your order.
If you would like to request a sample or call for a quote, dial (800) 563-1305 to speak with a knowledgeable representative or email us at info@ecolink.com.
Environmentally Preferred Solvent
Parts Kleen II does not contain chlorinated solvents but the high-grade hydrocarbon base ensures its potency for stripping grease, fuel oil, carbon, and organic resins on any type of mechanical apparatus. The solvent leaves most plastic and rubber surfaces unharmed. Parts Kleen II works well in a parts washer and its high flash point safely allows you to apply heat when necessary. Minimal protective equipment is necessary when working with Parts Kleen II.
Economically Beneficial
While Parts Kleen II is easier on the environment, it is also beneficial to your wallet. Ecolink sells this degreasing solvent for a lower premium than those qualified for MIL-PRF-680, but that is not the only financial gain. Saving money on most products usually ends after purchase, however, in the case of Parts Kleen II you can cut back on disposal expenditure as well. This solvent does not contain any hazardous ingredients as defined by the EPA and can be discarded for a lower cost.
Visit Our Shop
Click your preferred quantity to be directed to our shop where you can find Parts Kleen II available for purchase and get it shipped same day!
4 x 1 Gallon Case | 5 Gallon Pail | 15 Gallon Drum | 55 Gallon Drum
You might also be interested in our D’limonene alternative Parts Kleen Plus, which is manufactured with a high-grade petroleum and terpene hydrocarbon for additional cleaning strength. To learn more about either of these quality solvent degreasers, give us a call at (800) 563-1305 or send an email to partskleen@ecolink.com.
Understanding Cleaning Solvents: What is a Volatile Solvent?
/in Volatile Organic Compounds/by Industrial DegreasersBy technical definition, volatile solvents are substances that demonstrate a high degree of volatility in one or more contexts for one or more reasons. A volatile solvent can be classified in several ways, including: the agent in its formulation that causes volatility, whether the agent is manmade or organic, and the potential problems that the volatility is known to cause.
In this entry, we look at a particular class of volatile solvents, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), defining what they are and discussing what can be done to limit the negative repercussions of their volatility to help protect human health, particularly in industrial work settings, where an unusually high volume of volatile solvent is used in a given period of time.
What Are Volatile Organic Compounds?
Volatile organic compounds — a term that is typically shortened to the initialism “VOC” — are organic chemicals that have a high evaporation rate at room temperature. For example, the VOC formaldehyde, which is frequently found in commercial paint, has a boiling point of –2 °F. This means that the chemical will rapidly evaporate when the paint can is opened or the paint is sprayed onto a surface using mechanical pressurization equipment or an aerosol solution.
Concerning their origin, VOCs can be separated into two broad classes: biologically generated (i.e., naturally occurring) and anthropogenic (i.e., made by humans). Both classes of VOCs are widely used in industrial work processes, from painting, to degreasing, to the application of protective coatings. Examples of VOCs that are commonly used in industrial settings — or were commonly used before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulated their use — are:
Not all VOCs are as harmful to human health as others. For example, chronic exposure to benzene is strongly associated with cancer, whereas the biologically generated VOC myrcene has no such connection. However, when a VOC is harmful to human health but must nonetheless be used in industrial processes, the company or organization should implement a set of strict safety measures to protect workers from inhaling vapor from the substance.
Protecting Against Toxic VOC Exposure
Unlike exposure to destructive agents such as hydrochloric acid, which can cause immediate, permanent injury, persistent injuries from exposure to toxic VOCs often occur gradually — and the primary method of exposure that causes the injuries is well known: inhalation. Consequently, any work environment where a dangerous, volatile solvent is used should feature the following protective measures to help prevent workers from receiving health threatening injuries.
VOCs are sometimes misconstrued to be safe due to their organic nature, but this isn’t always the case. That is why it’s important to work with an experienced provider of industrial solvent solutions before you order a volatile solvent. If you need assistance selecting an industrial solvent for a specific cleaning operation or general cleaning, contact the solvent specialists at Ecolink today by calling (800) 563-1305, or refer to the contact page on our website.
N Propyl Bromide Vapor Degreaser: Strategies for Reducing Health Risks
/in N-Propyl Bromide/by Industrial DegreasersN propyl bromide vapor degreaser is used in the vapor degreasing systems of thousands of companies and organizations. However, large-scale users of the solvent are gradually replacing it with safer solutions that offer just as much efficacy, if for no other reason than that the solvent appears to be well on its way to being added to the EPA’s list of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), which means that its use would be heavily regulated to prevent health risks.
But what about companies and organizations that use an n propyl bromide vapor degreaser in small quantities that may be unaffected by upcoming regulations? Switching solutions would still be a good idea, as even minimal n propyl bromide exposure can produce an acute, negative impact on workers’ health. However, for entities that opt to keep using the solvent in low amounts, it’s essential to implement the following four strategies for reducing health risks.
Using a special air filtration system that’s designed to remove, chemical-based, airborne contaminants can help reduce n propyl bromide exposure. The lower the level of n propyl bromide emissions that workers inhale, the less likely they are to experience acute and chronic health problems that lead to lags in productivity and, potentially, chemical injury lawsuits.
N propyl bromide doesn’t enter the body through inhalation alone. It can also be absorbed through mucosal membranes and skin on practically any part of the body. Consequently, it’s ideal to supply workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) that covers them from head to toe while they apply the solvent. High-level PPE can be costly, but the lack of productivity and legal recourse that stem from n propyl bromide injuries can be costlier still.
The type of vapor degreasing system you use can also affect n propyl bromide exposure. While all vapor degreasing systems are “sealed” during operation to maintain vapor pressure, the system for moving non-recycled solvent into the waste trap should also be sealed. Ideally, workers should have no contact with n propyl bromide vapor degreaser after it enters the degreasing system. Waste disposal specialists should remove the solvent from the trap.
While any level of exposure to n propyl bromide could cause negative health conditions, the chance of experiencing them naturally increases as exposure to the solvent increases. Consequently, even if you use a low volume of n propyl bromide compared to other entities, you should ideally set exposure limits based on the lowest threshold (e.g., 0.1 ppm), as established by your municipality or a federal workplace regulatory agency such as OSHA.
Find an npb Replacement at Ecolink
Implementing the strategies above for reducing health risks caused by n propyl bromide can be expensive and time consuming. Regardless of how much n propyl bromide vapor degreaser they use, many outfits find it more cost effective to switch to a safer solvent instead of trying to mitigate the health risks of n propyl bromide exposure with in-house safety strategies. If you’re company in this situation, Ecolink can provide the degreaser replacement you need.
We specialize in supplying stock solutions and custom solutions that are environmentally preferred or environmentally safe, and pose a significantly lower risk to workers’ health than n propyl bromide formulations. To get started on receiving your replacement, call us today at (800) 563-1305, or use the contact form on our website, to schedule a free consultation.
Why You Should Rethink Purchasing Acetone From a Reseller
/in Acetone Cleaners/by Industrial DegreasersUsing a distributor is the first choice for many businesses to purchase industrial supplies since it is both convenient and consolidates purchasing. However, there are several benefits to be had by buying directly from the resellers’ provider that you should be aware of.
Are You Buying Acetone Cleaner Through One of These Distributors? We have a deal for you!
If you are purchasing commodity chemicals like Acetone from any of these national distributors, you may have considered who they’re sourcing from, and if it is possible for you to use the same supplier. The answer is yes! Ecolink saves you time by cutting out the middle man and helps your bottom line by avoiding distributor markups. We sell our products through these companies because they are good at what they do, but there are times when the benefits make buying direct the superior option. In the case of a chemical like Acetone, we guarantee you will enjoy the savings.
Call (800) 563-1305 to learn more about commodity chemicals offered by Ecolink or email us at acetone@ecolink.com.
Getting Pure Acetone Cleaner for Less
One 55 gallon barrel of Acetone can be purchased for $451 in our online shop. If you browse reseller pricing, you will see 55-gallon drums selling at prices up to 5x our current rate! Why pay more for the exact same product? Our pricing has remained consistent and we’re able to pass the savings to you by avoiding markups that result from products passing through too many channels. We also have low minimums for customers that need less.
Industrial Solvent: What You Need, When You Need It
Knowing how vital it is to have the tools you need to operate when you need them, we believe it’s important to be aware that most resellers do not keep products like Acetone in stock. By ordering directly with Ecolink, you will benefit from same day shipping and reduced freight costs. In addition, communicating directly with the supplier can add value to customers who need more accurate, real-time information on the products and their use.
Understanding the benefits of buying direct will help you make a more informed decision about your chemical solvent purchasing. If you need to talk to one of our chemical advisors, you can reach us at 800-563-1305 or at acetone@ecolink.com. If you would like to purchase Acetone from our shop, click on the links below:
?Acetone | 55 Gallon Drum ?Acetone | 5 Gallon Pail