In the previous article, we introduced "aqueous cleaning agents" from among "aqueous cleaning agents," "non-aqueous cleaning agents," and "semi-aqueous cleaning agents" in industrial cleaning agents. This time, we will introduce "hydrocarbon cleaning agents," which are "non-aqueous cleaning agents." "Hydrocarbon cleaning agents" are one of the important cleaning agents as they are often used for degreasing metal processing oils. We will introduce what types of cleaning objects they are used for and what precautions need to be taken.
Hydrocarbon cleaning agents are cleaning agents mainly used for degreasing processing oils used during metal cutting, pressing, and other processing. The main component is petrochemical solvents made from petroleum. They are produced by highly refining petroleum or by chemical synthesis. The molecular structure of hydrocarbons varies and they are classified into paraffin types, naphthene types, and aromatic types. These can be used differently depending on the usage scenario.
Advantages
- Strong against oil stains
- High permeability
- Dries faster than water
- Can be regenerated by distillation
- Does not corrode metals
- Zero ozone depletion potential
- Low toxicity
- Low regulatory restrictions
- Low unit cost
Disadvantages
- Flammable
- Management required under Fire Service Act
The advantages of hydrocarbon cleaning agents include the ability to degrease without metal corrosion, recyclability through distillation regeneration, and relatively low cost. Another advantage is that many hydrocarbon cleaning agents do not fall under organic solvent poisoning prevention regulations and have low toxicity.
The major disadvantage of hydrocarbon cleaning agents is that they are flammable. For this reason, fire prevention measures are required for cleaning equipment, and storage must comply with the Fire Service Act.
Combustion of hydrocarbon cleaning agents occurs when the following three conditions are met. These three are called the "three elements of combustion." If even one of these three can be eliminated, combustion can be prevented.
1. Combustible material (hydrocarbon solvent and its vapor)
2. Ignition source (presence of ignition sources such as sparks)
3. Oxygen supply (sufficient oxygen present)
Paraffin Type
Molecular formula：Linear chain
Diagram：Molecular structure example
Characteristics： Low viscosity, suitable for cleaning precision parts
Specific examples：Degreasing metal processing oils for precision parts
Naphthene Type
Molecular formula：Cyclic
Diagram：Naphthene type molecular structure example
Characteristics： General-purpose dirt
Specific examples：
Degreasing metal processing oils.
Widely used in cleaning machines for heat treatment applications.
Hybrid Type
There are also hybrid type cleaning agents that mix alcohols or glycol ether solvents with hydrocarbon cleaning agents. For dirt such as flux contained in solder used during semiconductor processing, it is suitable to use alcohol or glycol ether solvents. Therefore, when there is flux contamination in addition to metal processing oil on the cleaning object, it is effective to use hybrid type hydrocarbon solvents.
I think it would be clearer if the features were categorized into advantages and disadvantages.
Example:
・Advantages: Highly effective against oil and grease.
・Disadvantages: Flammable substance; requires management under the Fire Service Act, etc.
The same applies to this item. It is primarily used in washing machines for heat treatment processes.
As outlined above, hydrocarbon cleaning agents contain petroleum-derived solvents and are highly suitable for removing metalworking oils. However, due to their flammability, appropriate safety measures must be taken regarding equipment and storage.
Additionally, there are various types of hydrocarbon solvents, including paraffinic, naphthenic, and hybrid types. It is necessary to select the optimal solvent based on the specific contamination of the items being cleaned.
Proper process design is crucial to determine the right hydrocarbon cleaning fluid and the best cleaning method for each type of soil. At JFE Shoji Electronics, we offer hydrocarbon cleaning fluids such as the ESSO Actrel series and J CLEAN. Our expert staff, who possess deep knowledge of on-site cleaning processes, will propose the most suitable cleaning agents tailored to your facility's specific needs and requirements.