PRE-TREATMENT , SURFACE PREPARATION , DEGREASING & CLEANING
Fraser Technologies offers replacement service following nPB sunset date
Fraser Technologies , a specialist supplier to the component cleaning market , is offering manufacturers an n-propyl bromide ( nPB ) replacement service following the chemical ’ s sunset date on 4 July 2020 .
nPB , or 1-bromopropane , has been registered as a ‘ Substance of Very High Concern ’ under REACH ( Registration , Evaluation , Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals ), which regulates the supply and use of chemicals in Europe . As such , it has been banned from use as a component cleaning agent , except where authorisation to keep using it is granted . Current users are required to take action to ensure their cleaning processes are safe and remain compliant .
To make the conversion from the chemical as efficient and cost-effective as possible , the Fraser Technologies nPB replacement service includes a full audit ; survey of existing equipment ; recommendation of the most suitable alternative substance ; and free trials of products . The trials are available at centres in the London and Edinburgh areas , providing manufacturers with the opportunity to test out new chemistries and new equipment before buying .
Graham Fraser , Managing Director of Fraser Technologies , said : “ We know that many manufacturers are still using nPB and we want to ensure they have the opportunity to convert to a new cleaning system as efficiently as possible . Our test centres allow users to make an informed choice into what the best alternative solution is for their specific application , removing the need to trial and test new systems in their own facilities at additional time and expense .
“ It ’ s imperative for manufacturers to remember that nPB has been banned for a reason . It is proven that it can damage fertility and harm unborn children , which is identified in the risk section of the MSDS sheet . For the safety of all employees and their families , a safer alternative should be adopted as soon as possible . Users should also ensure that they take expert advice on their replacement substance , to guarantee that they are not switching one harmful chemistry for another . Some alternatives are also restricted solvents , such as Perchloroethylene ( PERC ) or Methylene Chloride ( MECL ) and should be avoided . There are plenty of very effective , safe and cost-effective nPB replacements on the market , and users should make sure that they are fully informed on their decision .”
Fraser Technologies is the UK ’ s sole distributor for Chemours™ specialty products , including its new generation Opteon™ range , which is a drop-in nPB alternative . With superior cleaning performance to nPB and other restricted solvents , it is also safe and extremely eco-friendly , with one of the lowest Global Warming Potential figures on the market . These products allow businesses to make a one-step replacement , saving time and ultimately costs .
Further information about the replacement service and guidance on how to switch from nPB can be found on the website frasertech . co . uk or by calling 01506 443 058
Visit : frasertech . co . uk
42 OCTOBER 2020 twitter : @ surfaceworldmag