Best References: Metal Cleaning (Solvents)

Fueled by the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Halogenated Solvent Cleaning (59 CFR 61801; regulation found in 40 CFR Part 63, Subpart T), metal cleaning and degreasing processes are moving away from the hazardous and ozone-depleting solvents that had been traditionally used, towards systems that are safer, both to the environment and to human health. This core sector includes information on various alternative technologies and solvent or aqueous systems, waste reduction techniques, solvent and water reuse, and related practices.
Date Last Updated: 6/12/2008

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Case Studies | Fact Sheets | Articles and Reports | Manuals | Sector Notebook | Web sites |

Case Studies |

Section Title: Ilco Unican Corporation
Full Title: Case Studies - A compilation of successful waste reduction projects implemented by NC businesses
URL: /01/0056537.pdf
Length: 1 page
Date: August 1995
Full Work Author: NC Office of Waste Reduction
Abstract: This key blank manufacturer replaced its TCA degreaser with a high-pressure hotwater spray. No chemical additives are needed. Payback was 1 year.

Full Title: Case Study: Hamilton Beach / Proctor Silex, Inc.
URL: /07/06147.pdf
Length: 3 pages
Full Work Author: NC DPPEA
Abstract: Hamilton Beach / Proctor Silex manufacturers toasters and toaster ovens. The facility's waste reduction efforts include elimination of a halogenated solvent for parts washing/ degreasing, recycling of aqueous cleaners, reduction of hazardous wastewater sludge, water reuse, and recycling and raw materials reuse. Waste reduction and annual savings information is included.

Full Title: Case Study: Hankison International
URL: /07/06141.pdf
Length: 3 pages
Full Work Author: NC DPPEA
Abstract: Hankison International manufacturers filter products and refrigerated air dryers for the compressed air industry. The facility installed a new powder coating system in 1995. This eliminated VOC emissions, but required a five-step cleaning line and 740 gallons of water per day, yet the facility had no public sewer system access. A non-discharge system was installed which filters contaminants out and evaporates the clean wastewater with heat from the curing oven. Cost savings are included.

Full Title: Case Study: Moen Incorporated
URL: /07/06137.pdf
Length: 2 pages
Full Work Author: NC DPPEA
Abstract: Moen produces components for kitchen and bath plumbing products. In 1995, Moen developed an environmental plan to reduce emissions and wastes. Moen reduced their hazardous waste significantly by switching to aqueous degreasing solvents, working to find markets for their wastes, and trying new processes to reduce metals in their tanks and waste. Additionally, the facility eliminated cyanide brass plating, reuses much of their process water, eliminated USTs (underground storage tanks, which can spill undected), and implemented recycling programs. Waste reduction and annual cost savings are included.

Section Title: Case Studies of Successful Implementations of Aqueous Cleaning Systems
Full Title: EPA Region III Waste Minimization/Pollution Prevention Technical Conference
URL: /01/00857.pdf
Length: 5 pages
Date: 1998
Section Author: Pirrotta, Richard
Abstract: Two case studies of aqueous cleaning systems from evaluation to specification and economic benefits.

Section Title: Blasting to Close Tolerances: A Case Study
Full Title: Parts Cleaning Magazine
URL: /13/12005.htm
Length: 2 pages
Date: October 2000
Section Author: Schwartz, Mary Beth
Abstract: This case study of a hydraulic component manufacturer that uses ceramic blast media to remove surface oxides from part surfaces. The parts are cleaned after being heat treated. All of the ceramic media is recycled and every two months the beads have to be replaced with fresh ones.

Fact Sheets |

Full Title: Alternative Cleaning Technologies for Vapor Degreasing and Cold Dip Processes
URL: /19/18561.pdf
Length: 4 pages
Full Work Author: Wieland, Andrea; et al.
Section Author: Lundquist, Robert
Abstract: Industrial applications for ozone-depleting chemicals have been carefully studied.

Full Title: An Analysis of Alternatives to Ozone-Depleting Solvents in Cleaning Applications
URL: /36/35501.pdf
Length: 19 pages
Date: Spring 1992
Full Work Author: Wolf, Katy
Abstract: Several alternative chemicals, processes, and products that are suitable for use in place of the two solvents are being investigated and adopted.

Full Title: Fact Sheet - Waste and Cost Reduction Techniques for Small Parts Cleaners
URL: /01/00024.htm
Length: 4 pages
Date: 1995
Full Work Author: NC Office of Waste Reduction
Abstract: This fact sheet discusses techniques for reducing waste and costs in small parts cleaning. A list of parts cleaner vendors is also presented.

Full Title: General Waste Minimization Options for Metal Cleaning - Waste Reduction Fact Sheet
URL: /01/00021.htm
Length: 2 pages
Date: 1993
Full Work Author: NC Pollution Prevention Pays Program
Abstract: This fact sheet provides information on waste minimization options for metal parts cleaning operations.

Full Title: Management of Shop Rags
URL: /01/00106.htm
Length: 2 pages
Date: June 1996
Full Work Author: NC Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance
Abstract: This fact sheet provides information on how to properly dispose of shop rags.

Full Title: Reducing Solvent Losses From Vapor Degreasers - Waste Reduction Fact Sheet
URL: /01/00022.htm
Length: 2 pages
Date: April 1995
Full Work Author: NC Office of Waste Reduction
Abstract: This fact sheet provides basic operating practices for reducing the loss of solvents from vapor degreasers.

Full Title: Solvent Parts Cleaning Environmental Overview
URL: /23/22353.pdf
Length: 8 pages
Full Work Author: Small Business Clean Air Assistance Program
Abstract: This newsletter presents an overview of regulations for solvent parts cleaning.

Full Title: Solvents - The Alternatives
URL: /01/00023.htm
Length: 14 pages
Date: March 1996
Full Work Author: Carter, Bob
Abstract: This extended fact sheet discusses aqueous and semi-aqueous alternatives to solvent cleaning processes. Includes 1996 revisions and extensive vendor listings.

Articles and Reports |

Full Title: Alternatives to Organic Solvents in Metal-Cleaning Operations
URL: /22/21134.pdf
Length: 13 pages
Date: July 1989
Full Work Author: Mehta, Suresh Sam; et al
Abstract: This report examines how organic solvents are used and recommends alternatives that offer relief from the regulations associated with organic solvent use.

Full Title: CleanTech
URL: /15/14335.pdf
Length: 7 pages
Date: 1/01
Section Author: Salerno, Cheryl
Abstract: Addresses the pros and cons of many of the "second and third generation" solvents beginning to emerge for cleaning applications.

Section Title: Closed Loop Aqueous Washing, #70
Full Title: Coating '99 Conference - Pretreatment General Session
URL: /06/05826.pdf
Length: 10 pages
Date: 1999
Section Author: Heller, Dick
Abstract: This paper explores the equipment and chemistries available to minimize waste and close the loop on aqueous cleaning operations. Explores the combined application of filtration techniques and evaporative recovery.

Full Title: Enclosed Spray Gun Washers Using Alternative Cleaners
URL: /41/40146.pdf
Length: 14 pages
Date: 2/07
Full Work Author: NEWMOA
Abstract: Describes use of spray gun washers and alternative cleaners.

Full Title: Nozzle Know-How: Inspecting, Maintaining, and Replacing Spray Nozzles
URL: /07/06807.htm
Length: 5 pages
Date: 03/00
Full Work Author: Foley, Dave
Abstract: Inspection, maintenance, and replacement of spray nozzles is often neglected for more visible maintenance concerns. Poor nozzle performance results in increased coating usage and decrease cleaning. This article identifies factors and causes of poor nozzle efficiency.

Section Title: Choices for Cleanliness Verification
Full Title: Parts Cleaning
URL: /13/12911.htm
Date: March 2001
Full Work Author: Witter Publishing Corporation
Abstract: Without a means to measure cleanliness you cannot assess if your cleaning process is performing as it should. You may be producing products that may fail later on down the line. This overview defines some general processes and technologies in cleanliness verification.

Section Title: The Power of Crystals - The Kinder, Gentler Strength of Baking Soda
Full Title: Parts Cleaning
URL: /04/03286.pdf
Length: 9 pages
Date: July/August 1999
Full Work Author: Arle, Paul G.
Abstract: This article discussed the use of bicarbonate sodium soda blasting operations for low-impact blasting processes. The soda blast cleaning allows for media recycling and reuse. Recent systems designs have expanded its use among a wide range of parts cleaning operations.

Section Title: Why Verify Cleanliness?
Full Title: Parts Cleaning
URL: /13/12912.htm
Date: March 2001
Full Work Author: Witter Publishing Corporation
Section Author: Chawla, Mantosh
Abstract: This article discusses the benefits of cleanliness verification and gives possible costs associated with the lack of monitoring.

Section Title: Blast Cleaning Technology Handbook
Full Title: Parts Cleaning Magazine
URL: /13/12004.htm
Length: 6 pages
Date: October 2000
Abstract: This handbook discusses how blast cleaning is used. The different types of abrasive and media selection criteria are described. Media recycling and safety concerns are also mentioned.

Section Title: Strategic Target: Pollution Prevention
Full Title: Parts Cleaning Magazine
URL: /13/12006.htm
Length: 6 pages
Date: October 2000
Section Author: Salerno, Cheryl
Abstract: This article describes how the United States Air Force (USAF) implemented cutting-edge pollution prevention technologies at its Raytheon facility in Tucson, AZ. Aqueous cleaning systems have replaced solvent cleaners. The Tucson facility has programs that continually seek to reduce hazardous waste, recycle chemicals, eliminate hazardous materials, and recycle water.

Section Title: Putting Aircraft Componenets 'Under the Gun'
Full Title: Parts Cleaning Web Magazine
URL: /05/04270.htm
Length: 3 pages
Section Author: Long, Cindy; Trevett, Mickey
Abstract: Case Study. This case study presents information on how an aircraft overhaul and repair facility switched from manually applied solvent-based cleaning solutions to a high-pressure aqueous cleaning system. The new cleaning system recycles the water and detergent for reuse. Cleaning time has been reduced from 14 hours to 1 1/2 hours.

Full Title: Pollution Prevention Technology Profile Closed Loop Vapor Degreasing
URL: /41/40148.pdf
Length: 16 pages
Date: 12/01
Full Work Author: Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation
Abstract: Discusses closed-loop vapor degreasing technologies.

Section Title: Carbon Coulometry: Direct Cleanliness Verification for Alternative Cleaning Technologies
Full Title: Precision Cleaning
URL: /06/05827.htm
Length: 9 pages
Date: January 1995
Section Author: Coduti, Phillip L., et al.
Abstract: Explains that quantitatively assessing surface carbon residues on metal, ceramic, and glass surfaces can be instrumental in evaluating the viability of alternative cleaning approaches.

Section Title: Ion Exchange Keeps Water Reuse Flowing
Full Title: Precision Cleaning
URL: /04/03293.htm
Date: August 1997
Section Author: Riley, Christopher T.
Abstract: This article describes the use of ion exchange to allow reuse of wastewater. Four ion exchange configurations are illustrated. Implementation steps and evaluation processes are provided.

Section Title: Optimizing Ultrasonic Cleaning for Disk Drive Components
Full Title: Precision Cleaning
URL: /04/03290.pdf
Length: 5 pages
Date: August 1997
Section Author: Gouk, Roman
Abstract: This article describes how the cleanliness of disk drive parts was determined by an extraction method. Ultrasonic energy extracts particles from a part and puts them into aqueous suspension then a particle counter measures the particle concentration.

Full Title: Precision Cleaning '94 Proceedings
URL: /04/03296.pdf
Length: 34 pages
Section Author: Davis, Peter G.
Abstract: A series of five articles about replacement technologies and solvent or aqueous systems to replace ozone-depleting chemicals in metal and parts cleaning or degreasing processes. Includes articles on alcohol and cyclohexane systems, cleaning and drying in isopropanol and cosolvent systems, terpene solutions, and a comparison of different solvent and aqueous cleaning systems used in a variety of applications.

Section Title: Carbon Dioxide Cleaning - Going Through Phases - A Panel Discussion of CO2 Cleaning Technology
Full Title: Precision Cleaning for Advanced Technologies
URL: /04/03285.pdf
Length: 8 pages
Date: July/August 1999
Full Work Author: Hill, Liz; West, Yale; Sherman, Robert, Dr.; Sloan, Jeff
Abstract: This article provides a summary of a panel discussion between technical experts on liquid CO2, supercritical CO2, snow CO2, pellet and supersonic CO2 cleaning operations. Specific process descriptions, applications, advantages and limitations are discussed.

Section Title: Intelligent Decision Making - What Recycling Methods Will Work Best?
Full Title: Precision Cleaning Journal
URL: /06/05814.pdf
Length: 9 pages
Date: November/December 1998
Full Work Author: Cleaning Technology Group
Section Author: Reynolds, Rick
Abstract: Offers objective look at considerations that should be made when altering recycling or treatment technologies within metal cleaning systems.

Section Title: Development of a Semi-Aqueous Cleaning Agent for Metal Cleaning Applications
Full Title: Proceedings: 1990 International Conference on CFC and Halon Alternatives
URL: /23/22292.pdf
Date: 1990
Section Author: Lermond, David S.
Abstract: A new semi-aqueous cleaning agent has been developed for metal cleaning applications.

Section Title: Improved Management of Aqueous Cleaning Solutions
Full Title: Product Finishing Journal
URL: /06/05813.pdf
Length: 5 pages
Date: November/December 1998
Full Work Author: Cleaning Technology Group
Section Author: Mackey, Jim
Abstract: Effective cleaning technologies can keep costs to a minimum while providing high-quality cleaning contamination from aqueous wash solutions.

Section Title: Second Generation Aqueous Cleaning: An Update in Conventional Wisdom
Full Title: Products Finishing
URL: /01/00708.htm
Length: 12 pages
Date: August 1997
Abstract: The changing role of aqueous cleaners and the impact of high-efficiency oil contaminant control in the parts washing/finishing pretreatment process.

Manuals |

Full Title: Clean Air Act Compliance for Solvent Degreasers - Regulatory Strategies for Manufacturers Affected by the Clean Air Act Amendments NESHAP for Halogenated Solvent Cleaners
URL: /02/01067.pdf
Length: 100 pages
Date: April 1995
Full Work Author: University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services; Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation
Abstract: This manual is designed to explain the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPS) for halogenated solvent cleaners used by batch vapor or in-line degreasers.

Full Title: Guide to Cleaner Technologies - Alternatives to Chlorinated Solvents for Cleaning and Degreasing
URL: /02/01066.pdf
Length: 48 pages
Date: February 1994
Full Work Author: US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development

Full Title: Guide to Cleaner Technologies - Cleaning and Degreasing Process Changes
URL: /02/01065.pdf
Length: 44 pages
Date: February 1994
Full Work Author: US Environmental Protection Agency,Office of Research and Development

Full Title: Guide to Cleaner Technologies - Organic Coating Removal
URL: /02/01048.pdf
Length: 46 pages
Date: February 1994
Full Work Author: US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development
Abstract: This guide summarizes information collected from US EPA programs, peer-reviewed journals, industry experts, vendor data, and other sources on organic coating removal.

Section Title: Precision Cleaning for Advanced Technologies 1999 Technology Handbook
Full Title: Precision Cleaning
URL: /05/04280.htm
Length: 15 pages
Date: December 1999
Full Work Author: Catalano, Anthony
Abstract: Overview of basic technologies in metal cleaning. Describes technologies presently available and how they work. Includes information on solvent cleaners, aqueous chemistries, aerosols, ultrasonics, hybrid systems, carbon dioxide (CO2), and plasma cleaning. Also covers cleanliness verification techniques.

Full Title: Waste Minimization in Metal Parts Cleaning aka Waste Minimization in Metals Parts Cleaning
URL: /02/01064.pdf
Length: 54 pages
Date: August 1989
Full Work Author: US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response

Sector Notebook |

Full Title: US EPA Office of Compliance Sector Notebook Project - Profile of the Fabricated Metal Products Industry
URL: /01/00380.pdf
Length: 149 pages
Date: September 1995
Full Work Author: US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Enforcement and Assurance
Abstract: This report profiles the fabricated metals industry, with descriptions of industrial processes and EPA Toxic Release Inventory data. It also discusses pollution prevention opportunities, federal regulations, and compliance and enforcement initiatives.

Web sites |

Full Title: Solvent Alternatives Guide (SAGE)
URL: http://clean.rti.org/
Full Work Author: Research Triangle Institute, US EPA
Abstract: SAGE is a comprehensive guide designed to provide pollution prevention information on solvent and process alternatives for parts cleaning and degreasing. SAGE does not recommend any ozone depleting chemicals.

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Content provided by N.C. Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance and Waste Reduction Resource Center through a grant from the EPA.