Surface World July 2019 Surface World July 2019 | Page 179

precision components.
Another successful product development has been
the range fluorinated blended formulations that
provide non-flammable, chemically stable products
with strong solvency performance at moderate
temperatures, totally suitable for hot vapour
re-distillation. Having favourable environmental and
safety profiles and being suitable for use in modern
open-top machines, these products offer a reliable,
flexible and cost-effective process option. With high
soil capacity and simplified operation this type of
product continues to be a popular option for many
precision cleaning applications.
The next generation of vapour phase degreasing
solvent is available and established in the form of an
Olefin product. It is a highly effective, extremely
stable, non-flammable cleaning solution, equally
suitable for hot vapour process or cold cleaning.
It has an exceptional environmental and safety profile
as non-ozone depleting with an ultra-low MIR a
global warming potential of one and an OEL of
800ppm. It has a strong solvency power and is
compatible with many metals and polymers. Carrying
many aerospace and military approvals it is proving
to be a most interesting and attractive product. It is
suitable for complete and stable re-distillation and
can be used in modern open-top format machines.
options that fit well within the operational scope of
the modern open-top equipment designs.
Considering the latest development of the olefin
solvent and the special characteristics it presents,
it proves that there is always potential for further
development.
It must be acknowledged that there has been a
tremendous amount of effort, time and financial
investment made throughout the last twenty years
by many people. Product Developers, Machine
Designers, Process Operators, Regulators,
Salespeople (come regulatory advisers) to mention
a few. I say well done to everybody who has played
their part. It has been a tough and busy time but
hopefully the future is clearer for many and we can
all be proud about how we have dealt with the
difficult task set upon us all.
Reviewing the events of the regulatory period,
there have been many difficult challenges. However,
a lot of good has come from the pressure and strife.
The true performers of the long-standing chlorinated
solvents have survived the challenge and enclosed
equipment technology has evolved to match the
high standing performance that the products prevail.
The open-top equipment format has developed
far beyond the technical level that its name
suggests, and current designs present advanced
technology that is most effective at enabling
operators to operate effectively and reliably
within the regulatory limits. Here’s to the next 20 years of solvent
degreasing innovation….
Non-flammable solvent technology has developed
extensively to meet the requirements of the precision
cleaning industry, providing flexible performance Ian Lucas
Business Development Manager
Banner Chemical Co. Ltd
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