What To Look for in a Parts Washer Machine
When it comes to preparing surfaces for painting, degreasing is essential. Without it, the paint will not adhere well to the surface, mitigating some of the paint’s benefits. While multiple methods of degreasing surfaces are available, such as vibration and steam cleaning, many companies opt to use a parts washer machine because of its efficacy.
But with so many types of machines, it can be difficult to know what to look for in a parts washer machine. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when making a selection for your company.
What You Are Cleaning
There are a variety of materials you may need to clean, and what washer you use will depend mainly on the size and amount of these materials. A large volume of smaller objects, such as nuts and bolts, may benefit more from a tumble wash machine. Large materials, like entire engine blocks or vehicles, may be better served by rotary washers. However, if the piece has a lot of crevices, you may prefer to use an agitating tank.
Type of Cleaning Agent
It’s also important to consider what type of residue you want to clean off the surface. In this case, the cleaning agent that you’ll use in the machine will be the most significant factor. There are two primary cleaning agents you will likely find when looking for a parts washer machine.
Solvent
Solvent-based cleaning fluids are popular in industrial sectors. They break down tougher residue you find in these fields, such as oil, soil, and grease. They can function at a wide range of temperatures and are also able to clean materials without requiring a drying process. Facilities should be aware that not all solvents work on all surfaces, especially if you are degreasing plastic or rubber. Some solvent-based cleaners are also flammable.
Aqueous
Aqueous-based solutions, as the name suggests, are water-based and mixed with materials such as detergents, emulsifiers, and soap. Rather than breaking down the materials, these agents focus on heat and agitation to clean the parts, making it difficult to use this method on materials requiring lower temperatures. However, some prefer this option because it is inflammable and VOC-free.
