Latest Articles
Solvent Cleaner For Electronics
High performance solvent cleaner for electronics and electrical components
Evolving legislation by governments worldwide has resulted in the need for new and original formulations to be offered for use in solvent cleaning and vapour degreasing processes. Companies must continue to comply with legislation for protection of the environment and safety of operators who may be exposed to harmful substances. In applications where formulated blends of halogenated solvents have been used very effectively in the past, these are now required by changes in legislation to be phased out of use.
With a wealth of experience in this field, EnviroTech Europe have developed a new solvent cleaning formulation based on recent research, a replacement for the “old” technology, which has been found to perform just as effectively without the negative environmental, health and safety issues.
Near Zero OPD and GWP solvent blend for high performance vapour degreasing solvent cleaner
ProSolv 5408e is the perfect replacement for trichloroethylene, nPB (n-propyl bromide), perchloroethylene or other flammable solvents used in general engineering cleaning processes.
ProSolv 5408e is a high-performance solvent cleaner used for sustainable and future proof vapour degreasing. Soft on the environment and safe for users, it offers improved cleaning at lower costs. Non-carcinogenic, low boiling point, economical with energy with low solvent losses, faster production, reduced costs, easy handling.
ProSolv 5408e has been developed to provide superior critical cleaning performance for manufacturers of electronic and electrical components. High Solvency (KB Value 98) for removal of organic residues, compatible with organic and synthetic oils and most plastics and metals,
non-flammable, with low ozone depletion (ODP) and global warming potential (GWP).
Listed above are some of the benefits from using ProSolv 5408e, a sustainable vapour degreasing solvent for cleaning and defluxing in the electronics and electrical components industry and an economical and efficient replacement solution for vapour / vapour liquid cleaning systems using older legacy solvents, which are now either banned or being phased out. EnviroTech Europe have many years of experience and our experts are available to guide you through your solvent cleaner changeover procedures or to advise on equipment.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website www.envirotech-europe.com for information about other uses and applications for our vapour degreasing and cleaning products.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Solvent Degreasing and Metal Cleaning
Solvent Degreasing and Metal Cleaning –
Future proof Vapour Degreasing from EnviroTech Europe
Innovation driven by legislation
Vapour degreasing, with or with-out ultrasonics, is the oldest, simplest and most effective solvent degreasing and metal cleaning process used today. It has, until recently, been subject to little change since it was first invented in the early part of the last century. In the UK, Europe, United States and other advanced industrialized economies increasingly stringent legislation to control emissions of VOCs, Global Warming Compounds, Ozone Depleting Compounds, and those compounds associated with human health concerns has led to new formulations for precision cleaning solvents.
Cleaning systems have had to change too. With increased legislation concerning the regulation of health and environmental safety, uses of solvents have been targeted and alternatives are encouraged by the relevant authorities and law makers, often without serious consideration of unintended consequences. For example, water-based cleaning is the obvious alternative but this has many disadvantages compared to vapour degreasing as although the machines are simple and relatively cheap the processes require multiple tanks for immersion or spray processing or long programmed cycles in batch machines for cleaning, rinsing and drying. Water based processes are slow, energy intensive and occupy more floor space than vapour degreasing equivalent where only one tank with small footprint is needed delivering shorter process times and most importantly using minimal energy. Then there is the disposal concern as the used water cannot just be disposed of by pouring it down a drain.
The ideal cleaning process would be vapour degreasing and cleaning with water, but due to the physical characteristics of the vapour/steam and the inability to carry surfactants to remove the oil, grease and soils and the difficulty of rinsing and especially drying this will only ever be a dream.
Halogenated hydrocarbons are the solvents of choice for vapour degreasing and cleaning. The process is essentially simple. A tank with a sump to contain the solvent, heaters at the base and condensation coils around the top section to control the height of the vapour is all that is needed. When heated in the sump halogenated solvents produce, in most cases, a saturated vapour between 3 and 4 times heavier than air at a temperature greater than the ambient temperature of the parts to be cleaned. This allows the solvent vapour to condense on the surface of the parts. The condensate dissolves the contaminants such as oil, greases, flux, and soils returning the used solvent into the sump of the machine for recycling into vapour which continuously condenses onto the parts until they have achieved vapour temperature when, with no further condensation, the process is complete. Parts removed from the cleaning machines are very clean, warm and dry.
The most common halogenated solvents, in use for commercial purposes, are non-flammable so present no risk in this process. Perchloroethylene, used mainly for dry cleaning, methylene chloride previously used widely in paint strippers, 1,1,1- trichloroethane and trichloroethylene used for vapour degreasing were the original materials used based on chlorine chemistry. However continuing concern about the environmental impact and danger to operators by exposure to chlorine-based solvents, especially trichloroethylene, has led to a continuing search for safer alternatives, such as ProSolv 5408e, a trans-1,2-Dichloroethylene based solvent mixture that is non-flammable.
As with all legislation for chemical use regulation and restrictions drive development of associated processes and equipment. The most important developments in vapour degreasing cleaning machines to use solvents for vapour degreasing use two different approaches and raise difficult questions as to which is the best most economical and simplest in use.
The single tank hermetically sealed machines favoured by mainly German manufacturers uses a process tank to contain the solvent and a separate storage tank/vapour generator. Baskets with parts to be cleaned are loaded from the top and lowered into the process tank. A lid then closes over the tank and is hermetically sealed. Solvent is pumped into the process tank. Baskets are immersed in the solvent where agitation, ultrasonics or pumped liquid is circulated through the parts. When the immersion process is complete solvent is pumped to the storage tank and vapour fed to the process tank from a vapour generator for rinsing and drying. Condensing coils/panels controlling the vapour height are linked to coils located within the vapour zone which, when the cycle is complete, collapse the vapour. The process tank is emptied. The saturated air/solvent from the process tank is then recycled through carbon absorption units to remove traces of solvent from the air until the concentration is below 2 grams per cubic meter when the lid opens automatically for the basket of parts, clean and dry, to be removed and replaced with a further basket.
Variations within the hermetically sealed tank are possible using sprays of cold or hot condensed solvent, immersion with or without ultrasonics and revolving baskets to cover most of the problems experienced when processing machined and fabricated parts. Continuous external distillation of the contents of the vapour generator is also an option depending on contamination.
The alternative technology is much simpler and cheaper and less time consuming using well trained techniques. This is favoured by UK based manufacturers. The multilevel system shown in the diagram uses a standard vapour degreasing tank design with a sealed loading section above the process tank.
Work baskets are fed to the load section from a hoist or conveyor. The loading door is then pneumatically sealed to hermetically isolate the process. The sealing lid on the process tank is opened and the basket lowered into the cleaning tank which can be simple vapour degreasing with vapour generator below or an offset generator can be used with the lower section being filled with clean solvent for immersion cleaning with or without ultrasonics or power sprays. Revolving baskets can also be added to improve cleaning in blind or through holes or oil ways in castings and fabrications.
When the process is complete the basket rises to the freeboard area where the condensation coils are located, and parts are allowed to drain and dry. The tank seal opens to allow the basket into the load section while the lid closes again across the process tank. A fan is then activated which produces a negative vacuum in the load area. The loading door is then partially opened to allow a flow of air through the loading section which is exhausted to atmosphere or can be recycled through carbon absorption systems if no external exhaust is preferred. As baskets entering the loading space contain parts drained and dried only very small amounts of solvent are carried in the exhausted air which is monitored to ensure compliance with local legislation. When this is achieved the door opens fully for removal of basket. The loading section can be fitted with top or side sealed doors allowing baskets to flow through on conveyor systems or be loaded from hoists. No solvent enters the work area. Both processes will produce parts cleaned to the highest standards but the choice of which offers the best solution needs a little more consideration.
The single tank process is complicated with the need to move liquids in the machine. It is relatively slow as the carbon adsorption process needs to remove high levels of solvent from the recirculated airstream from the process tank. This is inefficient as adsorption rates for carbon fall rapidly with increasing saturation. Final levels of solvent in the tank when the lid opens will be dragged into the workshop and the area in which the operator is working. Long process cycles reduce throughput.
The simpler multilevel systems where movement of liquids is not required are more efficient and offer much faster process times. Cost of manufacture is also cheaper as no liquid movement is involved. The extracted loading section ensures no leakage of solvent into the work area which offers complete safety for operators and factory staff. The disadvantage of the multilevel machine is the height of the equipment compared to the single tank machine. This will often require the equipment be installed in a pit for easy access.
Both designs of process machines fully comply with the emission regulations of the UK, EU and U.S authorities. Which to choose will depend on many factors which should be discussed with both the equipment and solvent suppliers who have the experience to advise on which offers the best process for the application. Equipment and solvent must work together and it is advisable to ensure that the suppliers work closely together to offer a package with high levels of responsible care and product stewardship to ensure the best and safest installation.
The vapour cleaning process still gives the highest levels of economical cleaning with minimum energy usage, low footprint on the factory floor, safety for the operator, and high production rates with low solvent usage or environmental impact. With the new generation of sealed cleaning machines its future as the process of choice is assured.
Envirotech Europe supplies three distinct products that use this process and we are happy to advise you on the best solution to suit your needs. Please visit our website to find out more about ProSolv 5408e, ProSolv and EnSolv® CC-A.
Image of Solvac hermetically sealed equipment by kind permission of CC Hydrosonics Ltd.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website www.envirotech-europe.com for information about other uses and applications for our vapour degreasing and cleaning products.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
For more advice, please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form. All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Electrical corrosion protection
Electrical corrosion protection – Prevent hydrogen sulphide corrosion in electrical and electronic equipment
Super CORR A is a proven and cost-effective way to prevent or inhibit corrosion from destroying electronics and electrical components. Adverse work environments where corrosive gases such as hydrogen sulphide are found, can cause severe corrosion and rapid deterioration of electronic components and equipment, including connectors and switches.
Lost productivity and revenue caused by plant and equipment downtime
Corrosion, in its many forms, costs both private and public sectors hundreds of billions of Euros a year to repair or replace electrical, electronics, or avionic components because of failures caused by corrosion. While all metals corrode, due to a number of different factors, there is no simple or single solution to the overall corrosion problem. However there are some very cost effective and proven ways to prevent corrosion and failures caused by corrosion and thereby reducing or eliminating associated costs and increasing safety which should be foremost in the mind set of any preventative maintenance programme manager.
Super CORR Awas specifically designed to lubricate and prevent corrosion in electrical fittings and connectors; electrical and avionic harness assemblies and connectors; electrical and electronic switches; close tolerance and dissimilar metal components; lighting connectors and sockets. A unique non-flammable “self-healing” ultra-thin film lubricant with a proprietary corrosion preventive compound that will not harden or crack, is not a wax or oil-based product and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides or halogens.
Super CORR A inhibits corrosion caused by exposure to both fresh and salt water moisture as well as the corrosive vapours from Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), Ammonia (NH3), and Chlorine (CL12) based gases found in waste water and sewer treatment plants, pulp and paper mills and plants, chemical and petroleum plants, maritime industry, aircraft/airline industry, military equipment including ships, aircraft, and rolling stock, auto industry, farming and agriculture industry, and the list goes on.
Super CORR A extends the working life of electrical components and systems and other critical items by preventing the deterioration and/or failure caused by corrosion and can significantly reduce downtime, operating and maintenance costs as well as enhance safety. An ultra-thin film, water displacing lubricant and corrosion inhibiting compound Super CORR A has undergone extensive testing by Battelle Labs as well as the U.S. Air Force and meets MIL-DTL-87177B (revised MIL-L-87177A) specification. SuperCORR-A is used by NATO (NATO NSN 8030-99-226-6966) to protect avionic, electrical, electronics, electrical switches and connectors and components from corrosion in both the military and civilian aircraft. Savings for the U.S. government alone is estimated to be in excess of $50 million per year.
Super CORR Aprovides a superior lubrication coefficient and protects components against moisture, wear, general and fretting corrosion, surface static electricity, corona, and other electromigration problems. The super thin non-flammable lubricant film is only 7 microns (0.00028 inch) thick and is formulated to meet the RoHS directive. It is unexcelled in preventing deterioration and contamination on all surfaces of electronic equipment.
The question for you is: What is the cost of NOT using Super CORR A in your preventative maintenance programme?
FURTHER INFORMATION
Please visit our website https://www.envirotech-europe.com/supercorr-a for for information about other uses and applications for Super CORR A.
Visit www.envirotech-europe.com/applications-and-case-studies for information about uses and applications for all EnviroTech Europe products.
Share this page:
Latest News
Industrial Degreasing Solvents – Safe For The Environment
Eco Friendly Industrial Degreasing Solvents, Safe For Users And The Environment.
Cleaning agents are used in many industries to remove dirt, oil, grease, or other contaminants from machined and fabricated metal, plastic and composite surfaces.
The solvents must be highly refined and leave no residues on drying. They have to be very effective in removal of oils and soils without causing harm to the parts or components being cleaned and leave minimal residues. Solvents are used for cleaning using spray washers or immersion tanks with or without ultrasonics or agitation in manufacturing or automotive industries for removal of process oils from manufacturing processes .
Pre-used parts or assemblies from the transportation, aerospace or manufacturing equipment sectors are often very heavily contaminated when removed from service but must be free of these oils, soils, grease, dirt and contaminants before handling to disassemble prior to refurbishing and rebuilding.
A growing concern regarding environmental and health hazards of the most commonly used chlorinated solvents as industrial degreasing agents has led to the formulation by EnviroTech Surface Technologies of the Clarea® range of safer cleaning solvents.
Clarea solvents can be used for spray or immersion cleaning for very heavy soiling or are used as wipe cleaners for large surface areas prior to painting or powder coating.
Why should you choose Clarea industrial cleaning solvents.
The solvents applied during production or finishing processes have a direct effect on the health of workers and the environment.
Volatile organic compounds or VOCs are chemicals which vaporise at room temperatures. Traditional solvents used for cleaning have low boiling points and a high VOCs making them harmful to use and less eco-friendly Exposure to the VOC’s released by these cleaning agents must be controlled to prevent respiratory, allergic, and immune system complications for users. If your company uses industrial degreasing agents regularly, it is time to evaluate the dangers of this choice.
Clarea is a less volatile alternative than conventional cleaners. Highly refined aliphatic hydrocarbons with minimal residues and tight vaporisation ranges are capable of providing the same results and can be substituted to create a safer, sustainable, eco-friendly workplace.
The low odour, low flammability and low toxicity of Clarea® solvents provides performance and operator and environmental acceptability using less material at lower costs. Multipurpose use can reduce the inventory of cleaning fluids stocked.
Clareaa HC40 for brush and hand wiping, air dries. Flash point 40℃.
Clarea HC62 for dip cleaning with agitation or ultrasonics.
Low evaporation. Non-flammable.
Clarea® range of solvents is supplied through our distributors worldwide.
Other solvents in our cleaning specialities range are:
ProSolv 5408e: Precision solvent for electronics, medical and other critical cleaning applications.
Aquus CL-One: Water based neutral cleaners for use where solvents are not compatible with substrates.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Preventing hydrogen sulphide corrosion in electrical and electronic equipment
A Cost Effective and Proven Corrosion Preventative Solution.
By Larry Clark, EnviroTech Europe Ltd
Electrical and electronic equipment and components that are used in adverse work environments, e.g. the oil and gas industry, waste water treatment plants, and the pulp and paper industry, where corrosive gases such as hydrogen sulphide are found cause severe corrosion and the rapid deterioration of the electronic components and equipment including connectors and switches used in these and other work environments. One economical way to prevent or inhibit corrosion from destroying electronics and electrical components is to use SuperCORR A, Ultra Thin Film, Water Displacing, Lubricant and Corrosion Inhibiting Compound.
If you or your company aren’t worried about costs then by default you aren’t concerned about corrosion or it’s associated costs in lost productivity and lost revenue caused by plant and equipment down time then this a paper that you should just skip. But if you and your company are concerned about costs including the amount money and man hours to repair or replace components to keep an electrical system or electronics operating, an aircraft flying, or a machine running because of failures caused by corrosion then this paper is for you!
Corrosion, in its many forms, is costing both private and public sector hundreds of billions of Euros a year! While all metals corrode due to a number of different factors there is no simple or single solution to the overall corrosion problem. However there are some very cost effective and proven ways to prevent corrosion and failures caused by corrosion and thereby reducing or eliminating associated costs and increasing safety which should be foremost in the mind set of any Preventative Maintenance Programme manager.
One proven and cost effective solution to the corrosion problem is SuperCORR A, a water displacing, ultra thin film lubricant with corrosion preventative properties. SuperCORR A was designed specifically to lubricate and prevent corrosion in electrical fittings and connectors; electrical and avionic harness assemblies and connectors; electrical and electronic switches; close tolerance and dissimilar metal components; lighting connectors and sockets; and the list goes on and on.
SuperCORR A is a unique non-flammable “self healing” ultra thin film lubricant with a proprietary corrosion preventive compound that will not harden or crack. SuperCORR A is not a wax or oil based product and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides or halogens.
SuperCORR A inhibits corrosion caused by exposure to both fresh and salt water moisture as well as the corrosive vapours from Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), Ammonia (NH3), and Chlorine (CL12) based gases found in waste water and sewer treatment plants, pulp and paper mills and plants, chemical and petroleum plants, maritime industry, aircraft/airline industry, military equipment including ships, aircraft, and rolling stock, auto industry, farming and agriculture industry, and the list goes on. Extending the working life of electrical components and systems and other critical items by preventing the deterioration and/or failure caused by corrosion can significantly reduce downtime and operating and maintenance costs as well as enhance safety.
The question for you is: What is the cost of NOT using SuperCORR A in your Preventative Maintenance Programme?
SuperCORR A is available from EnviroTech Europe Ltd and our distributors worldwide.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Trichloroethylene a known human carcinogen
CONTENT ON THIS PAGE IS RETAINED FOR INFORMATION ONLY
DUE TO n-Propyl bromide now being included in Annex 14 of REACH
EnviroTech Europe Ltd (ETE) continue to publish it as historical information and to record changes occurring in legislation which have affected decisions on formulations and equipment used in vapour degreasing - the most effective, quickest, flexible and cheapest cleaning system used in industry.
EnSolv® invented and patented by EnviroTech has been a market leader all over the world for vapour degreasing. It is based on n-bromopropane (nPB) which now cannot be used as a vapour degreaser within the UK or EU without authorisation.
Archived information about EnSolv® can be found using the Discontinued Products & Resources navigation menu on this page.
Using experience accumulated over 40 years supplying and supporting users of the vapour degreasing process ETE specialists have developed “drop in” alternatives:
ProSolv®, ProSolv5408e® and EnSolv CC-A® give the same or improved level of performance and economy as the original EnSolv® products.
Please contact our advisers who are available to discuss your needs and propose the best replacement product.
Or please click here to return to our vapour degreasing products homepage for information about our current products.
Trichloroethylene formally listed as a “Known Human Carcinogen”.
 |
After many years of being listed as a possible or probable human carcinogen, the widely used solvent trichloroethylene (TCE) has now been listed by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as a “known human carcinogen.” Ref; NTP’s 14th Report on Carcinogens (November 3, 2016).
Trichloroethylene is widely used in manufacturing industries as a vapour degreasing solvent but its principal uses are as an intermediate raw material in hydrofluorocarbon chemical manufacture. In the light of a number of human studies showing a causal connection between TCE exposure and an increased risk of kidney cancer, NTP re-evaluated and ultimately reclassified TCE. In addition to cancer risk, other problems that have been attributed to TCE exposure include immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity and developmental toxicity, such as potential fetal cardiac defects.
As a known carcinogen exposure to TCE is highly regulated already in the European Union. From April 2016 its use has required authorisation for specified applications.
The ban on the use of TCE for vapour degreasing, a very widely used cleaning process, causes many problems in the engineering and manufacturing industries where oil and soils need to be removed between stages in the production processes and on finished products. The use of alternative water based cleaners are inconvenient and increase process times and costs.
A safer alternative, EnSolv is available as an established “drop in” replacement for TCE often using existing vapour degreasing equipment. For more information on conversion, help or advice from EnviroTech Europe Specialist team go to www.vapour-degreasing.com.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Lubricant And Corrosion Inhibitors
How SuperCORR A protective lubricant prevents seizures of automatic handling systems in the harsh conditions of Industrial cleaning systems.
Specialist cleaning equipment manufacturer C&C Hydrosonics a division of U.S giant Crest Ultrasonics have solved a problem with seizures occurring the on x-y axis linear tracks on their automatic handling systems fitted to multi tank cleaning systems both aqueous and solvent based.
The automatic handling systems are programmed to process baskets or jigs through a cleaning cycle transferring between tanks, lowering and raising work from the liquids. The motorised carriages use nylon wheels running on case hardened mild steel tracks (stainless steel is not available) which corrode in the chemical atmospheres in the machine canopies.
The corrosion prevents smooth running with wheels seizing and binding on the tracks. The vibration can cause components to be shaken from jigs or in extreme cases the carriage will stall requiring intervention by service engineers to remove corrosion and re-lubricate tracks with oil. This is a temporary measure as the oil is quickly removed by the solvents and water based cleaning solutions with corrosion recurring in a short time.
SuperCORR A from EnviroTech Europe is an innovative dry lubricant formulation with protective properties which forms a self-healing film applied from an aerosol. The inorganic lubricant is unaffected by water and acts a barrier against rusting and corrosion. Extensive Trials by C&C Hydrosonics over a six month period with both solvent and water based systems demonstrated that SuperCORR A offered a simple solution to the problem with no seizures during the trial period. Previously maintenance every six weeks was needed, now an aerosol spray of SuperCORR A is used only during service visits as a routine lubrication and applied during production of the handling system.
Lee Casey Managing Director of C&C is delighted with the cost savings on reduced service and maintenance calls using SuperCORR A but is even more pleased that the inconvenience to customers has been eliminated. Use of SuperCORR A has now been extended worldwide on Crest automated handling systems.
SuperCORR A is available from EnviroTech Europe Ltd and distributors worldwide.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
The only realistic “drop in” replacement for TRIKE.
CONTENT ON THIS PAGE IS RETAINED FOR INFORMATION ONLY
DUE TO n-Propyl bromide now being included in Annex 14 of REACH
EnviroTech Europe Ltd (ETE) continue to publish it as historical information and to record changes occurring in legislation which have affected decisions on formulations and equipment used in vapour degreasing - the most effective, quickest, flexible and cheapest cleaning system used in industry.
EnSolv® invented and patented by EnviroTech has been a market leader all over the world for vapour degreasing. It is based on n-bromopropane (nPB) which now cannot be used as a vapour degreaser within the UK or EU without authorisation.
Archived information about EnSolv® can be found using the Discontinued Products & Resources navigation menu on this page.
Using experience accumulated over 40 years supplying and supporting users of the vapour degreasing process ETE specialists have developed “drop in” alternatives:
ProSolv®, ProSolv5408e® and EnSolv CC-A® give the same or improved level of performance and economy as the original EnSolv® products.
Please contact our advisers who are available to discuss your needs and propose the best replacement product.
Or please click here to return to our vapour degreasing products homepage for information about our current products.
|
|
Why EnSolv is the only realistic “drop in” replacement for TRIKE as a Vapour Degreasing Solvent.
Syd Treacher, a Surface Cleaning Consultant discusses the current controversy regarding replacements for trichloroethylene, the most commonly used vapour degreasing solvent, which was to be phased out of use in industrial applications in April 2016.
This article was prompted while reading an article where the author claimed that a grade of fluorocarbon solvent was a “drop in” replacement for TRIKE (trichloroethylene) and n- propyl bromide. This statement is not true for the majority of applications for which trichloroethylene is used – vapour degreasing or more correctly condensation cleaning.
As a consultant in surface cleaning technology I have studied the options available and come to the conclusion that the stabilised n-propyl bromide (nPB) sold in the UK under the brand name EnSolv® is the ONLY realistic “drop in” replacement for trichloroethylene when used for vapour degreasing. It is on average up to 50% cheaper than fluorocarbon formulations being proposed as alternatives.
From my evaluation it is clear current users of EnSolv® can continue to use the solvent and equipment or if still if using TRIKE you can make the change to EnSolv® in a day. A decision has to be made quickly as the “sunset date” after which TRIKE will not be available for industrial use without authorisation in the EU was April 2016 but you can substitute with only minor changes to control settings on equipment. The legislation regarding the use of nPB may change in the future but if this happens you will have at least 3 years to decide on the alternative so the savings in solvent costs over this period will be considerable compared to alternative materials. Read the full article here.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Degreasing And Cleaning – Key Questions To Ask
There can be no doubt that manufacturers of metal components have remained keenly interested in the advantages to be found in process cleaning, while being confused by the amount of misinformation that seems presented to them.
There can only be two reasons for this. These is an intention to mislead or simply a lack of understanding of the subject.
In any event, the user needs to take time to match what is said to what is fact. Too often companies generalise on the basis that they are not keen for users to look deeply at the subject, yet this is vital if good decisions are to be made.
In the end, the final judgement of the user is what matters but how many people express frustration at some of the suppliers they have met who spent more time criticising a proven product rather than validating their own.
Too often, suppliers are advising what not to do rather than dealing with what really works. This is negative selling and appears on the increase as the market shrinks, regulation gets tighter and independent specialists are more limited in numbers.
Recent history suggests that larger suppliers rely on their size to justify their competence when in fact the really satisfied customers are saying smaller companies with real specialists provided the best solutions.
No one can argue against the fact that the popular choice for metal cleaning and degreasing is still vapour degreasing. This is confirmed by the companies involved in making machinery for degreasing. The order books are heavily stacked in favour of vapour degreasing. If there is one slight disadvantage currently, lead times are often 20 weeks to delivery of machines.
It is clear though that these highly cost-effective systems, which use very little solvent, are likely to remain the first choice for some considerable time.
Arguments related to the Solvent Emissions Directive carry little weight with modern machines as they are so well engineered that they are compliant with regulatory requirements. If there is one common request made by users it remains that they wish there was a single company capable of offering the total solution, e.g. both their own product and machinery together. This would shorten the circle and place more pressure on the supplier to be responsible for promises made.
Most machinery companies work with a multitude of chemistry suppliers, since they want the maximum sale of machines, but should disputes arise this can be a protracted problem as it’s easy to blame someone else for the issues involved.
Much is said about vacuum and hermetically sealed systems being the best solution. They are certainly the most expensive. Speak to an independent specialist to ensure you know the limits of these machines and the cost benefits of alternative designs.
Suppliers who claim aqueous systems are superior need to ensure they advise the user that more energy, more space, longer cleaning cycles more risk of residues and waste disposal issues should be taken into account. Global warming is an issue for all of us so factor in the amount of energy required for heating and drying. To accept that water is safer or better, needs to be well argued. Never forget that water-based cleaning solutions need changing regularly and the oils and metals produced by these processes are waste and needs correct and very expensive disposal.
When considering vapour degreasing it will often be suggested that product transfer systems attached to the existing open-topped machine bring a number of benefits. For handling benefits it is true but never doubt they will not contribute to reducing your consumption, so will do nothing for emission targets.
The best way forward is to make a supplier talk to you about their own product. Beware of those who distract you from this. If a claim is made that seems suspect, ask for the claims to be made in writing. Transparency is a vital ingredient in any relationship with your supplier.
The target audience for most suppliers are those using the carcinogen Trichloroethylene. This is now banned for general use and requires specific authorisation for use in cleaning applications. Do your research, set the questions and insist on the evidence for the arguments put forward. Protecting your business, your staff and the community around you gives a sound basis to ensure a real assessment.
For more information about Vapour Degreasing Solutions please visit our website:
www.vapour-degreasing.com
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Replace Banned Trichloroethylene
CONTENT ON THIS PAGE IS RETAINED FOR INFORMATION ONLY
DUE TO n-Propyl bromide now being included in Annex 14 of REACH
EnviroTech Europe Ltd (ETE) continue to publish it as historical information and to record changes occurring in legislation which have affected decisions on formulations and equipment used in vapour degreasing - the most effective, quickest, flexible and cheapest cleaning system used in industry.
EnSolv® invented and patented by EnviroTech has been a market leader all over the world for vapour degreasing. It is based on n-bromopropane (nPB) which now cannot be used as a vapour degreaser within the UK or EU without authorisation.
Archived information about EnSolv® can be found using the Discontinued Products & Resources navigation menu on this page.
Using experience accumulated over 40 years supplying and supporting users of the vapour degreasing process ETE specialists have developed “drop in” alternatives:
ProSolv®, ProSolv5408e® and EnSolv CC-A® give the same or improved level of performance and economy as the original EnSolv® products.
Please contact our advisers who are available to discuss your needs and propose the best replacement product.
Or please click here to return to our vapour degreasing products homepage for information about our current products.
Trichloroethylene is banned by the EU and will not be available after 21 April 2016.
Still using trichloroethylene for vapour degreasing?
The final EU “Sunset Date” is on 21 April 2016 when use of this solvent will be illegal without specific authorisation and unless very expensive fully enclosed vacuum equipment is installed. Exemptions are unlikely if an alternative is available.
Replace Trike now with EnSolv – the simple “drop in” replacement for Trichloroethylene.
EnSolv is stable, economical, a superb vapour degreaser operating at 70˚C which means less energy, easier handling, faster throughput and lower usage. Very safe for operators, EnSolv is a simple replacement using existing equipment which needs no new skills – resetting the thermostats is all that’s necessary.
Alternative solvents based on fluorocarbons are available but are not “drop in” replacements and are very expensive. The equipment needed to use these materials is not available off the shelf with equipment manufacturers quoting months for delivery.
EnSolv is supplied and serviced by an experienced, expert group of distributors, fully trained to carry out inspections of your equipment and processes and advise and support the changeover which can be done in hours.
A visit to your works by a member of our Trichloroethylene Substitution Team to survey, report and process samples to validate cleaning and compatibility with soils, oils and metals of construction is completely free and without obligation. You are also welcome to personally visit our Technical Centre, close to Stansted Airport, to test samples yourself and discuss your needs with our experts.
An alternative to vapour degreasing is water based cleaning systems. EnviroTech Surface Technologies can supply suitable materials for appropriate needs where the next part of the process, anodising or electroplating are water based or where use of solvent is not compatible with the materials used in manufacturing of components. But the installation costs, use of multi tanks taking up space which could be used for more productive and profitable uses, disposal of water and energy costs for drying are not economical when compared to simple substitution, by EnSolv using existing equipment.
We have the all facts for you to consider before you make the commitment. Call on the number below or go to our product website www.vapour-degreasing.com and book a free visit by one of the experts from our Trichloroethylene Substitution Team.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page:
Don’t Miss The Trichloroethylene Deadline
 |
Trichloroethylene due to be phased out in April 2016.
ProSolv is a new, less expensive fluorinated solvent formulation for all precision cleaning applications.
ProSolv the new critical cleaning solvent has been developed by EnviroTech Surface Technologies as a “drop in” cost effective alternative which is less expensive than the current fluorocarbon formulations you may be using.
ProSolv offers future proof cleaning systems giving long term savings without compromising quality. Substitution is simple with no changes to equipment or control settings needed.
Users of trichloroethylene, which is due to be phased out as a cleaning solvent in April 2016, only 3 months away, may be able to use ProSolv as a cost effective replacement in many applications.
ProSolv is friendly to the environment it has zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and a very low impact on global warming. In addition, it is a non-flammable stable azeotrope needing no testing for acid acceptance or stabilising additives, easy to use and maintain and safer for employees and the workplace.
ProSolv like many other fluorinated solvent azeotropes is extremely effective for precision cleaning in hightech industries such as aerospace, aviation, electronics and medical due to the use of an additive trans 1,2-dichloroethylene.
This produces a powerful fluorinated cleaning solvent with a very low surfaces tension which cleans blind holes and the smallest gaps more effectively at a lower cost. With these wide range of properties ProSolv is particularly effective used with ultrasonics.
ProSolv can usually be used in existing degreasers or sprayed from an aerosol container. Our fluorinated solvents are ideal for the cost-conscious user for precision cleaning and degreasing of electronics, metals and glass.
ProSolv can be used to remove adhesives, fluxes, pastes, buffing compounds, greases, silicone oils, particulates, resins, waxes and other oils and soils.
ProSolv is only one of a wide range of cleaning solvents and solutions produced by engineering cleaning specialists EnviroTech Surface Technologies. Our Technical Centre in Essex is available for you to visit to test clean your components with ProSolv or compare results with the other products such as EnSolv or Clarea solvents we supply. Our technical team have extensive knowledge of equipment and systems to help you find the most effective, budget-friendly, future proof and environmentally conscious solution for your business. EnviroTech Surface Technologies have distributors located across the E.U. and Middle Eastern countries all of whom can offer technical advice and support.
We can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheets, independent laboratory reports, product samples and technical assistance.
For more information or advice please telephone us on +44 (0) 20 8281 6370 or use our contact form.
All products are supplied and supported by EnviroTech Europe Ltd. Manufactured in the United Kingdom and available on short delivery times through our dedicated team of distributors worldwide.
Share this page: