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Common Myths About Aqueous Cleaning Solutions

Common Myths About Aqueous Cleaning Solutions – Workers typically use solvents for parts cleaning but want an alternative method that is safer for workers and offers a better clean. However, people may be wary of trying a new solution because of the costs and the worry of potential hazards. This article debunks those myths and describes several benefits of aqueous cleaning solutions.

Creates A Hazardous Environment 

Workers are used to the traditional methods of parts cleaning that utilize solvents for chip removal and degreasing but the solvents can create a hazardous environments that threaten worker health and safety. However, aqueous cleaning products are water-based solutions that, unlike petroleum solvents, are nonflammable and nonhazardous. Petroleum and chlorinated solvents contain chemicals that may be toxic if inhaled and can also increase the risks of cancer. The dangers increase because petroleum solvents evaporate quickly, which makes exposure difficult to control. Instead of dissolving grease, aqueous parts washer units utilize heat, pressurized water, soap action, and agitation to break up dirt and grease. They have the added benefits of minimal odors and no pollution which will benefit workers health as well the environment.

Difficult To Dispose Of 

Since petroleum solvents are hazardous to the environment, the disposal aspect is also a difficult process. Aqueous solutions are water-based so they are a lot simpler to dispose of and possess little to no VOCs so your safety will not be compromised. Aqueous is less toxic and safer than petroleum solvents but that doesn’t mean you do not need to manage the waste disposal. The best way to dispose of aqueous solutions is to take the waste to waste disposal centers. Furthermore, utilizing a licensed vendor reduces your liability and ensures that the waste is properly disposed. Vendors allow for more disposal management options for all sorts of aqueous waste disposal.

Doesn’t Clean As Efficiently 

Aqueous systems are designed to remove oils and solids . By using skimmers and filters, cleaning solutions can last indefinitely if they are properly maintained. Some solvents can even leave grease and oil on the parts requiring them to be washed again but aqueous products clean them fully right away so the process doesn’t have to be repeated which loses time and money. Most aqueous machines also dry the parts so when they come out they are fully cleaned and ready to use.

Too Expensive 

A specification to look for is a solution that can help save money. Many think because aqueous solutions can be pricier for start up costs that it will be too expensive to maintain. However, money is saved from reduced labor hours. Petroleum solvents need to be soaked for about two hours but with automated aqueous parts washers, the cleaning process typically takes less than 20 minutes. Workers can leave the station, work on other tasks and return when the process is completed. This increases worker productivity and helps save money. Also, since aqueous solutions clean efficiently, you’ll save money on the amount of solution you need since you won’t have to repeatedly  clean your parts.

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