Six Sigma – Monitoring Variables in Cleaning – Part 1

As discussed earlier, monitoring variables in a process is a critical part of Six Sigma.  The following are some examples of parameters that can be monitored in a cleaning process and some suggestions regarding how the monitoring can be done. Chemical Concentration – Chemistry (detergent, acid, rinse aid, etc.) is one of the most important components of the …

Six Sigma – Process Selection and Monitoring

In order to achieve six sigma results, one must evaluate, measure and statistically control ALL phases of the cleaning process.  A typical cleaning process is comprised of three main stages – – washing, rinsing and drying.  Each of these must be addressed and controlled separately as any one of the three being out of control …

Chemistry – Tips on Temperature and Concentration

When parts aren’t coming clean two of the first things most process engineers target as potential problems are the temperature and concentration of the chemistry.  These are, in most cases, good bets but one should resist knee-jerk reactions. Chemical Concentration – One of the common knee-jerk reactions to a cleaning problem is to increase chemical …

Heat – A Balancing Act

We all know that temperature is an important parameter in cleaning and cleaning-related processes.  Too little and cleaning will be ineffective.  Too much can lead to possible chemical separation, part degradation and loss of ultrasonic cavitation.  So providing the proper temperature is mandatory for the best cleaning result.  Sounds easy?  Well, yes and no – consider …

Chemistry – Automated Chemical Metering Devices

The chemistries used in industrial cleaning processes are predominantly either dry (granular or powder) or liquid.  Dry chemistries cover a wide range of density and flow characteristics.  In fact, two batches of the “same” dry chemistry may have considerably different properties.  Each liquid product has its own specific gravity and viscosity characteristics but may also vary in other …

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 …

Chemistry – Automatic Chemical Makeup

Previous blogs have revealed a number of ways to measure chemical concentration in a cleaning bath.  It is a logical extension that  process engineers utilize these tools to automate maintaining the proper chemical concentration in their cleaning processes.  Overall, this is a great idea.  However, there are some pitfalls and things that should be taken …