The existing Solvac systems used more than 1 tonne of solvent per year , meaning they both required a permit from the local authority for continued use , further increasing costs for the company .
Due to the legislation around the safe use of Trike and nPB , these systems were fitted with over tank canopies and safety interlocks to ensure operators were not exposed to solvent vapours . One of the systems also had a PPM meter fitted , which restricted the front door from opening until the level of solvent had dropped below a specified level . This , as well as additional safety features , protected operators and reduced emissions .
THE RESULTS
A replacement such as SF80 is nonflammable and has a safety exposure limit of 202ppm ( ten times better than PERC ), which eliminates all these additional costs and can boost productivity through energy savings and faster component drying times .
5 . UNDERTAKE TRIALS
Businesses should consider trials of replacement chemistries with their particular components and soil types , as well as new cleaning equipment and agents .
At Fraser Technologies , our facility includes free customer trial centres in the London and Edinburgh areas . These allow you to test out alternative chemistries , as well as new equipment if required , before buying . This helps you to make an informed choice into what the best alternative solution is for your specific needs .
WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF REPLACING NPB ?
In 2017 , we worked with leading Aerospace manufacturer , BAE Systems , to replace the nPB that they were using with a safer solvent .
THE CHALLENGE
BAE Systems approached us to assess their existing process to see how they could use an alternative solvent which
would be safer , at which point we also discussed additional benefits including efficiency and cost saving .
To assess their existing cleaning processes , we arranged a site visit to inspect the Solvac vapour degreasing systems at two of their facilities . We performed a full system inspection to ascertain suitability of the systems for conversion to Opteon™ SF79 , a cleaning fluid chosen for its performance , ultra-low global warming potential ( GWP ), recyclability , reusability , safety , and ease of use . At the time of the change , SF79 was the leading product for this application and while SF80 has since come on to the market as a refined replacement of SF79 , both products are safe and suitable alternatives to nPB .
As part of the process , our objectives were to test the equipment for suitability and compatibility for use with SF79 ®, as well as the general condition of the equipment and any opportunities to reduce solvent usage . The customer found that their solvent usage was very high and they were aware that reductions would improve their environmental impact , as well as save costs .
Before using nPb , both of BAE ’ s systems were originally supplied for use with Trichloroethylene ( Trike ) to flush pipework , so they were long narrow tanks specifically suited to this application . They each had a flushing rig and filtration , and originally had Carbon Absorption Deabsorption systems fitted .
While there were minor issues with the system , these could be addressed and it was determined that Opteon™ SF79 ® was a suitable replacement . This has now been fully implemented at two of the locations , while the third is currently transitioning to the new product .
Since moving to Opteon™ SF79 ®, BAE has achieved the cleaning performance they expect , while also significantly reducing their environmental footprint . As SF79 ® does not have the acidity issues that nPB does , the customer ’ s usage was significantly reduced simply because fewer clean outs were required . And importantly , it is safe and easy for operators to use .
Speaking about the results of the change to SF79 ®, the customer ’ s Engineering & Governance Lead said : “ The transition from nPB to SF79 ® was relatively straightforward and quick , and communication was good throughout . Fraser Technologies also had a much stronger relationship with the manufacturer than we did , which was especially helpful during the process .
“ Due to a reduction in manufacturing throughput , we cannot confirm an exact reduction in annual usage , and therefore cost savings and environmental footprint . However , emissions monitoring that we undertook following the introduction of SF79 ® showed a reduction in volatile organic compounds to atmosphere compared with the previous solvent . The product ’ s lower GWP will also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of our site operations .
“ Overall , changing to SF79 ® has been a positive experience and it has helped us to achieve our safety , health and environmental objectives .”
For further information , please call 01506 443 058 , email sales @ frasertech . co . uk or visit www . frasertech . co . uk .
Issue 50 PECM 23