Shopping for industrial solvents and degreasers online gives you more options than shopping for them in a brick and mortar store. However, with the extended range of choices comes the need to develop a checklist of requirements for identifying the type of solvent you need for your cleaning operations. Below, we present six time-tested tips that will help you shop successfully for industrial solvents and degreasers on the internet.

1. No EPA Listed Ingredients

First and foremost, focus on identifying industrial solvents and degreasers that have no ingredients listed on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) most recent List of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs). Cleaners that contain regulated chemicals must generally be used in small quantities — and, even when they are used in small quantities — they can still cause acute health problems.

2. Compatibility With Washers

If you need industrial solvents and degreasers for a parts washer, be sure to limit your search to products that are intended for parts washing systems, specifically your own system. You could always get a new parts washer to accommodate a new cleaner, but getting a cleaner that can be used immediately with your washer is a better option in terms of time and money.

3. Types of Accumulations

Why types of applied substances or accumulations do you need to remove? The answer should play a significant role in what industrial solvents and degreasers you select. When a cleaner that isn’t suited to remove certain accumulations is still used to remove them, problems can arise, such as using an unusually high volume of cleaner, long turnaround time, and reduced productivity.

4. Methods of Application

There are several ways solvents can be applied, including hand wiping, spraying, and placing them in parts washers. However, some cleaners are more ideally suited to some methods of application than others. That is why it’s important to read the manufacturer’s product guidelines for a solvent before you place an order.

5. Flammability Profile

The higher the flashpoint of a cleaning solution, the better its safety profile. Some cleaning processes demand a solvent that has a high flashpoint or no flashpoint. However, even if your processes don’t require this characteristic, opting for a cleaner that has an excellent flammability profile will support fire safety in the area where your cleaning solutions are stored.

6. Creating Custom Orders

If you can’t find industrial solvents and degreasers that meet your cleaning requirements, you may be in the market for custom solvents and degreasers. Consulting with an experienced provider of custom, industrial grade cleaners is the easiest way to make the determination. If you need a custom solvent, it can be supplied on an ongoing basis.

Need Additional Assistance?
The tips above comprise a general guide for selecting industrial solvents and degreasers that meet your needs. There can be several other factors to consider, as well. If you need assistance choosing the right cleaner, please call Ecolink today at (800) 563-1305. We look forward to answering your questions and helping you choose a safe, efficacious cleaner.