Propyl bromide (a.k.a. n propyl bromide and NPB) is a cleaning agent that widely replaced older, chlorinated solutions that contain chlorofluorocarbons and perchloroethylene. However, while propyl bromide may have a better safety profile than some of its counterparts, it isn’t “safe” to use in the conventional sense of the word. In fact, the cleaner’s safety data sheet (SDS) provides plenty of reasons to identify and implement a safer cleaning solution.
Hazards
The propyl bromide SDS lists several “hazard statements” associated with the use of the cleaning agent. These statements are as follows: harmful if swallowed, causes eye irritation, may cause respiratory tract irritation, may cause drowsiness or dizziness, suspected of causing cancer by inhalation, and harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. These hazards are more than enough to motivate NPB replacement.
First Aid
The propyl bromide SDS states that exposure to the cleaning agent requires first aid attention, specifically if the cleaner contacts the skin or eyes, is inhaled, or is ingested. Furthermore, the document notes that those who perform first aid measures are themselves at risk for needing first aid due to chemical transference. First aid for skin contact may be addressed at the work site with soap and water. Inhalation or ingestion may require professional medical treatment.
Exposure Control
The propyl bromide SDS lists various exposure control limits for NPB. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) currently lists the accepted exposure limit as 0.1 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average, while the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets the permissible exposure limit at 5 ppm. Exposure limits differ between regulatory organizations. In all cases, however, the exposure limit is quite low.
Reactivity
NPB’s reactivity is also addressed by the propyl bromide SDS. The cleaning agent is not sensitive to mechanical impact but is “dangerously reactive” with strong oxidizing agents, strong alkalies, and alkali metals. In addition, NPB is reactive with finely powdered aluminum. NPB is chemically stable to the degree that it will not polymerize. However, as mentioned above, its thermal decomposition rapidly creates the corrosive, diatomic molecule hydrogen bromide.
Toxicity
The propyl bromide SDS states that “prolonged or repeated exposure” to NPB can cause dermatitis and notes that vapor from the cleaning agent can be neurotoxic. The ACGIH recognizes the cleaning agent as an animal carcinogen that is “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” Due to NPB’s widespread use, the effects of acute and chronic exposure are quite well-known, and serve as a major motivator for the EPA’s push to ban the agent.
Need a Propyl Bromide Replacement?
If so, now is the time to start searching for replacement solutions, and Ecolink is the place to search. We’ve helped thousands of companies and organizations implement safe alternatives to propyl bromide cleaners that deliver the same cleaning power. In doing so, we’ve also helped many of these entities save money by mitigating the expenditures that surround the use of dangerous cleaning solvents, such as buying high-level personal protective equipment (PPE).
The propyl bromide SDS spells doom for the continued use of propyl bromide cleaners. Eventually, almost all of them that are routinely used for commercial and industrial cleaning operations will be replaced by cleaning agents that have fluorinated blends (e.g., HFC, HFE and HFPO), or blends that have similarly acceptable safety profiles and usage parameters.
For more information about NPB replacements, call us today at (800) 563-1305 to schedule a free evaluation of your cleaning needs, or refer to the contact page on our website.
Propyl Bromide SDS – Getting your Facts Straight
/in N-Propyl Bromide/by Industrial DegreasersPropyl bromide (a.k.a. n propyl bromide and NPB) is a cleaning agent that widely replaced older, chlorinated solutions that contain chlorofluorocarbons and perchloroethylene. However, while propyl bromide may have a better safety profile than some of its counterparts, it isn’t “safe” to use in the conventional sense of the word. In fact, the cleaner’s safety data sheet (SDS) provides plenty of reasons to identify and implement a safer cleaning solution.
Hazards
The propyl bromide SDS lists several “hazard statements” associated with the use of the cleaning agent. These statements are as follows: harmful if swallowed, causes eye irritation, may cause respiratory tract irritation, may cause drowsiness or dizziness, suspected of causing cancer by inhalation, and harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects. These hazards are more than enough to motivate NPB replacement.
First Aid
The propyl bromide SDS states that exposure to the cleaning agent requires first aid attention, specifically if the cleaner contacts the skin or eyes, is inhaled, or is ingested. Furthermore, the document notes that those who perform first aid measures are themselves at risk for needing first aid due to chemical transference. First aid for skin contact may be addressed at the work site with soap and water. Inhalation or ingestion may require professional medical treatment.
Exposure Control
The propyl bromide SDS lists various exposure control limits for NPB. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) currently lists the accepted exposure limit as 0.1 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average, while the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets the permissible exposure limit at 5 ppm. Exposure limits differ between regulatory organizations. In all cases, however, the exposure limit is quite low.
Reactivity
NPB’s reactivity is also addressed by the propyl bromide SDS. The cleaning agent is not sensitive to mechanical impact but is “dangerously reactive” with strong oxidizing agents, strong alkalies, and alkali metals. In addition, NPB is reactive with finely powdered aluminum. NPB is chemically stable to the degree that it will not polymerize. However, as mentioned above, its thermal decomposition rapidly creates the corrosive, diatomic molecule hydrogen bromide.
Toxicity
The propyl bromide SDS states that “prolonged or repeated exposure” to NPB can cause dermatitis and notes that vapor from the cleaning agent can be neurotoxic. The ACGIH recognizes the cleaning agent as an animal carcinogen that is “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” Due to NPB’s widespread use, the effects of acute and chronic exposure are quite well-known, and serve as a major motivator for the EPA’s push to ban the agent.
Need a Propyl Bromide Replacement?
If so, now is the time to start searching for replacement solutions, and Ecolink is the place to search. We’ve helped thousands of companies and organizations implement safe alternatives to propyl bromide cleaners that deliver the same cleaning power. In doing so, we’ve also helped many of these entities save money by mitigating the expenditures that surround the use of dangerous cleaning solvents, such as buying high-level personal protective equipment (PPE).
The propyl bromide SDS spells doom for the continued use of propyl bromide cleaners. Eventually, almost all of them that are routinely used for commercial and industrial cleaning operations will be replaced by cleaning agents that have fluorinated blends (e.g., HFC, HFE and HFPO), or blends that have similarly acceptable safety profiles and usage parameters.
For more information about NPB replacements, call us today at (800) 563-1305 to schedule a free evaluation of your cleaning needs, or refer to the contact page on our website.
Questions to Ask Before Buying an Aerosol Solvent Degreaser for General Cleaning
/in Aerosol/by Industrial DegreasersAcross the globe, the industrial cleaning solutions industry literally produces thousands of different aerosol solvent degreaser solutions for general cleaning. However, as one would expect, the efficacy of the cleaners varies widely. The safeness of the cleaners for humans and the environment also differs considerably. With these things in mind, below are six important questions to ask before you purchase an aerosol solvent degreaser for general cleaning.
Does the solution contain ingredients that the EPA considers hazardous?
If the EPA determines that a solvent contains hazardous ingredients, there is a good chance that the solvent will eventually become unusable in large quantities due to the EPA regulating the ingredients. Here is a helpful point of reference for chemicals the EPA considers hazardous.
Has the solution been officially regulated in any capacity, at any level?
The EPA isn’t the only organization that establishes usage parameters for ingredients in cleaning solvents. State and municipal organizations also define usage limitations. If your state or municipality regulates the solvent you plan to implement, you may need a different product.
Is the solution suitable to apply to the materials that needed to be cleaned?
If you need an aerosol degreaser for general cleaning, you probably require a product that can be applied to a broad range of materials, from rubber, to plastic, to metal. Before you purchase a cleaner, ensure that its formulation is safe for the materials that you need to clean.
What is the precise flashpoint for the solution, or is it non-flammable?
The flashpoint of a solvent is the temperature at which it ignites. In addition to defining how a cleaner can be used, flashpoint also impacts how the cleaner must be stored. For general cleaning operations, choosing an aerosol solvent degreaser that has no flashpoint is ideal.
Is the solution also available for purchase in a non-aerosol form?
Because there may come a time when you need to use your aerosol solvent degreaser in non-aerosol form, it’s a good idea to buy it from a company that supplies the solution in non-aerosol form, as well. This will help you avoid the hassle of finding a different supplier.
Does the manufacturer plan to produce the solution for the foreseeable future?
The last thing you want is to purchase an aerosol solvent degreaser from a supplier that is in the process of dropping the solution from its inventory. When the solution is no longer available from the manufacturer, you will be back to square one, searching for a suitable aerosol degreaser.
How Ecolink Can Help
When companies and organizations choose an aerosol solvent degreaser for general cleaning, they need a solution they can depend on using for the foreseeable future. They also need a cleaner that has a good safety profile for humans and the environment. Ecolink specializes in supplying cleaners that meet these requirements. For example, our proprietary cleaner FluoSolv AP is an excellent replacement for aerosol degreasers that have hazardous ingredients.
For assistance choosing an aerosol solvent degreaser that meets your general cleaning requirements, call us today at (800) 563-1305 to schedule a free evaluation of your needs, or use our contact page. We look forward to supplying you with an aerosol degreaser that has the usage parameters and physical properties you need in a solvent for general cleaning.
Ecolink 3005 – Looking for a Suitable Replacement?
/in FluoSolv/by Industrial DegreasersFor many years, companies and organizations that have a diverse set of degreasing and general cleaning needs have used 111 TCA or CFC 113. However, these agents were canceled in December 2013 due to their deleterious effect human health, ozone depletion, and harm to the environment at large. Today, using the chemicals in large quantities will draw a fine from the EPA, and could result in the shutdown of a facility until it’s ready to implement a safer cleaner.
This means that companies that still use the chemical are doing a dangerous dance with the EPA. As mentioned above, if the EPA determines that the solution is still being used, significant fines, and even the shutdown of the facility, could occur until the problem is resolved by implementing a replacement solution. For many companies, FluoSolv is an ideal replacement.
Finding a Replacement Solution – Shop FluoSolv Here
Finding a replacement solution for Ecolink 3005 has drawn many companies to identify a 111 TCA or CFC 113 replacement solution that offers a safer profile while delivering the same, efficacious cleaning power of the phased out chemicals. With this is mind, below are traits that an effective replacement for Ecolink 3005, such as FluoSolv, must consistently exhibit.
These tasks are just a few of the jobs that 111 TCA or CFC 113 and its replacements perform. Unfortunately, many companies and organizations have used the solutions long enough that they lack knowledge about replacement solutions that deliver the same level of cleaning power. If your are in this position, don’t buy just any kind of replacement cleaning solution. Instead, talk to us about using FluoSolv to replace Ecolink 3005 to better meet your cleaning needs.
Why Choose Ecolink?
When the EPA and local municipalities ban toxic cleaners that damage human health and the environment, the regulations often put companies that have use the solutions for large cleaning operations in a difficult position, as they must cancel 111 TCA or CFC 113, and replace it with a solution that is just as efficacious but better for human health and the environment at large.
Even so, finding a replacement solution that delivers the same efficacy of 111 TCA or CFC 113 and is applicable for the same cleaning procedures can be hard. This is why companies turn to Ecolink for assistance with finding a replacement solution for these chemicals. We offer a dynamic replacement for this cleaner, FluoSolv, and we can also create custom solutions that meet your unique set of cleaning needs. All you need to do is consult with our solvent experts.
Contact Us Today
From large, industrial settings that use multiple cleaners to small businesses that only use a few cleaners, Ecolink knows how critical cleaning solutions can be. We have the experience and expertise to provide the solution you need, and deliver it quickly, so you can be in compliance.
For more information about Ecolink 3005 and the prospect of replacing it with FluoSolv, call us today at (800) 563-1305, or refer to the contact page on our website. We look forward to providing you with an eco friendly, efficacious replacement for Ecolink 3005 cleaning solution!
Why Make Daraclean 282 Your Go-to Alkaline Cleaning Solution?
/in Daraclean/by Industrial DegreasersA general cleaning solution is a cleaner that companies rely on for various cleaning operations, or depend on for a specific cleaning operation that demands an excellent safety profile, such as Daraclean 282. This solution is a low-foaming, all-purpose cleaning solution that is certified to meet or exceed aerospace industry specifications for aqueous and alkaline cleaners.
Additional Qualities of Daraclean 282
For companies that perform in-depth cleaning operations, and must use a cleaner whose ingredients are not regulated or banned by the EPA, Daraclean 282 is an excellent option. In addition to the qualities mentioned above, the solution also boasts the following characteristics that make it a desirable replacement for standard cleaners used for aerospace applications.
These points show the effectiveness of Daraclean for removing substances that accrete on metal and are difficult to remove with over-the-counter (OTC) cleaners. Unlike many OTC cleaners, Daraclean 282 is formulated to offer excellent cleaning action for a variety of metals that require a cleaning solution that excels at maintaining the function and appearance of the following metals, any of which can be highly reactive when the wrong metal cleaner is applied.
The solution also demonstrates moderate effectiveness for cleaning magnesium and titanium. It should be noted that Daraclean 282 is not rated to clean zinc. In addition, the solution tends to demonstrate the least efficacy when it is used to remove carbonized soils from the metals above. If this prevents a problem for your cleaning operations, remember that Ecolink can create a customized solution that conforms to the requirements of your aerospace cleaning operations.
Need a New Alkaline Cleaner for Metal?
If so, Daraclean is likely to accommodate your needs, and then some. In addition to the solution’s superior cleaning power and chemical formulation that effectively treats most metals, the solution also has the advantage of not being regulated or banned by the EPA, and it is available in a 55-gallon drum that makes it economical, and easy to store in confined locations.
Is Daraclean 282 a suitable replacement for the solution that you currently use to clean aerospace metal? To find out, contact the chemical specialists from Ecolink. If Daraclean is not a good replacement, we will develop a solution that is tailored to address your unique needs. For more information about Daraclean 282, call us at (800) 563-1305, our use our contact page.
We look forward to providing you with a ready-made solution or a custom solution that meets your stringent cleaning needs for aerospace applications, without interference from the EPA.
Four Reasons to Switch to a Non Flammable Parts Cleaner
/in Non Flammable/by Industrial DegreasersAs a general category of cleaning solvent, parts cleaner is conventionally formulated with ingredients that have a flash point, which means they will ignite when exposed to the right amount of heat. When a flame or a spark touches the solutions when they are wet, they can ignite instantly, causing damage to parts they were used to clean and the person performing the job — a scenario that could potentially cost millions in lost equipment and legal settlements.
Benefits of Using Non Flammable Parts Cleaner
Preventing equipment damage and avoiding injury lawsuits are two reasons why companies switch out their conventional parts cleaner with one that doesn’t have a flash point, but there are also some additional, more commonplace benefits that companies receive when they switch from a flammable to a non flammable parts cleaner, four of which are presented below.
Broader Spectrum of Application
Flammable parts cleaner should never be used for some applications, such as cleaning energized electrical parts in maintenance applications that require a quick turnaround (e.g., degreasing the engine of an airliner before it returns to the runway). Because many maintenance applications ideally require the use of a non flammable parts cleaner, it is only sensible to switch to a non flammable solution that can be used for a wider variety of cleaning applications.
Easier to Comply With Fire Codes
Many states and municipalities have adopted a version of the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code (NFPA 30). Using a flammable parts cleaner may mean that your company must use the solution within the parameters of the code, which can impact how much solution you can use, and how you can use it. Using a non flammable parts cleaner helps you avoid implementing NFPA 30 compliance measures.
More Options for Cleaner Storage
Parts cleaner that has a low flash point often presents concerns regarding how it should be stored. Ideally, it should be located in an area where no combustibles are present, including electrical infrastructure components that could ignite due to an arc flash or faulty electrical components. A non flammable cleaner, on the other hand, presents no such concerns. If need be, you can store it alongside combustibles without worrying about creating a fiery aftermath.
Reduced Protective Equipment Expense
Workers who use flammable cleaning solutions for applications that could cause them to ignite should be provided with flame retardant personal protective equipment (PPE) that offers head to toe coverage. If your company has a large workforce that uses flammable cleaners, providing such a high level of PPE can become quite costly. Although non flammable cleaners may not eliminate the need for PPE, they may allow you to invest in a less costly level of the equipment.
Contact Ecolink Today
If your company currently uses a parts cleaner that has a flash point — however high or low it may be — switching to a non-flammable parts cleaner offers some obvious benefits, particularly the four listed above. If you are in the market for a non-flammable, commercial grade cleaning solution, Ecolink can provide you with a ready made parts cleaner or a specially formulated parts cleaner that is non flammable and meets a wide variety of crucial parts cleaning needs.
For assistance choosing the best non flammable parts cleaner for your cleaning applications, call us today at (800) 563-1305, or refer to the contact page on our website. We look forward to supplying you with a non flammable solution that helps you realize the benefits listed above.