Outstanding penetration of tight clearances in complex parts
Cleaning is an essential process in aircraft production, maintenance and repair to ensure safe operation. Effective cleaning agents must remove a diverse range of contaminants, yet be compatible with a wide range of metals, plastics and elastomers.
Compatibility and cleaning effectiveness are a function of the solvent used. CFC-113, HCFC-141b, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane were commonly used in the many cleaning applications where a non-corrosive, non-flammable solvent with low toxicity was required. However, because of the ozone depletion potential of these compounds, their production and/or use was banned, requiring users to find a new alternative. Other solvents, such as perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and methylene chloride, have barriers to use due to environmental or worker safety reasons.
Advantages of 3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids
Novec fluids have proven to be highly-effective and versatile cleaning solvents for the aerospace industry.
Applications
Precision cleaning
3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids offer a number of advantages for companies involved in aircraft production, maintenance and repair. They have demonstrated excellent compatibility with sensitive materials such as acrylic and polycarbonate, as well as a wide range of other plastics, elastomers and metals. Their low surface tension, low viscosity and high liquid densities make Novec fluids ideal for use in vapour degreasing equipment. They are fast-drying, and typically offer lower drag-out losses than conventional degreasing solvents.
What’s more, Novec fluids easily penetrate tight spaces on complex parts, then drain off easily so they don’t become trapped in small spaces. Unlike aqueous solutions, Novec fluids do not support biological growth, and are less equipment and energy-intensive. In addition, parts cleaned in Novec fluids dry quickly and spot-free, with less chance for corrosion.
Download White Paper – Solvent Cleaning & Vapour Degreasing for Aerospace Industry
Precision Cleaning Equipment
Crest Ultrasonics – The Sound Choice
Crest Ultrasonics has been a leader for over 50 years in the ultrasonic cleaning industry. Crest has been creating the standard for advanced precision cleaning equipment with a breadth of line known for its quality, long-lasting performance, and precision cleaning results. Our commitment to excellence continues with our new, highly advanced Solvac™ Vapour Degreaser systems.
SOLVENT CLEANING VS. AQUEOUS CLEANING
Advantages of solvent cleaning with 3M™ Novec™ Engineered Fluids vs. aqueous systems: