Surface World January 2020 Surface World January 2020 | Page 27

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 Systems at two of their facilities.
We performed a full system inspection to
ascertain the suitability of the systems for
conversion to Opteon™ SF79 ® . Opteon™
SF79 ® was chosen because of its cleaning
performance; ultralow GWP*; recyclability
and reusability; safety; and ease of use.
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.
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.
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The results
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.”
*Global warming is a gradual increase
in the overall temperature of the earth’s
atmosphere, generally attributed to the
greenhouse effect, caused by increased
levels of carbon dioxide, CFCs, and other
pollutants. GWP is used to represent the
equivalent of C02 being released into the
atmosphere. So 1kg of C02 = a GWP of 1.
Fraser Technologies
www.frasertech.co.uk
Telephone: [phone]
JANUARY 2020
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