Potential Process Problems NOT Related to Cleaning

Most cleaning processes are comprised of a number of discreet steps.  A wash followed by one or more rinses and then a dry would be a typical cleaning process.  As parts being cleaned are moved from one process step to the next, they are vulnerable to potential risks by conditions not directly related to cleaning.  Whether related …

Buffing Compound Removal – A Unique Challenge

Buffing compound is a material used in polishing operations which must be removed once polishing is complete.  Buffing compound consists of a finely divided abrasive mixed with a “vehicle” which is often a paraffin or, in some cases, animal fat and other “fats”  depending on their price and availability in a particular region of the world.  The “vehicle” …

What is Surface Tension?

The surface tension of a liquid, as we have discussed earlier, is an important consideration in the selection of cleaning chemistry for a particular application but it also has relevance in several other ways as well.  In earlier blogs, I have frequently referred to the importance of surface tension but haven’t really discussed what surface tension …

Cleaning Chemistry – Water-Based Chemistry – Caustic

Acidic cleaning chemistries were discussed in a preceding blog.  Now let’s talk about the second of the three classifications of chemistry we defined – caustics.  Caustics are materials that are basic as opposed to acidic in nature.  The use of caustics for cleaning, especially for removing oils and greases, can be traced to the ancients.  …