Water-Based vs. Solvent-Based Cleaners

Cleaning encompasses many different methods. A cleaning method’s effectiveness depends on other factors besides the approach. If you’re washing soil off your hands, a simple scrub with soap and water may suffice (water-based). However, if grease is involved, you may want to use a chemical-based formula (solvent-based).

Water-based (also known as aqueous cleaning) cleaning uses water with other additives, like detergents or soap, to remove dirt or grime. Solvent-based cleaners, on the other hand, are chemical cleaners.

The effectiveness of the two methods comes down to how they interact with the contaminants. Water-based cleaners eliminate water-soluble contaminants like soil from surfaces by isolating dirt and grime particles, freeing them so they can be washed off. Solvent-based cleaners dissolve contaminants, drawing them into the solvent and away from the surface.

Because solvent-based cleaners mix with most contaminants, they are the more common method for industrial applications. They’re also more cost-effective, reliable, comprehensive, and efficient than water-based methods in most cases. Moreover, using solvent-based cleaners typically requires less effort than water-based cleaners.

For instance, water-based cleaning requires prepping (like setting water temperature to a specific level) before the actual wash, as well as rinsing and drying. These processes take time. Because solvent-based cleaners do usually do not require rinsing or drying, which could require additional space or equipment for drying, they tend to be more efficient. Fast-evaporating solvents, for instance, disappear shortly after they’re applied, reducing process times, which can be key in an industrial setting.

The superior effectiveness of solvent-based over water-based cleaners stems from the differences in their surface tension. Surface tension is a liquid’s ability to form cohesive droplets. The lower the surface tension (as found in most solvents), the harder it is for the liquid to form droplets, meaning it spreads out evenly over the surface. On the other hand, high-surface tension liquids (such as water) easily contract into droplets, limiting their penetrative power. Solvents do not form droplets, meaning they penetrate tight spaces better and dissolve contaminants without being trapped.

Also, while water-based cleaning is effective at room temperature up to about 176F, solvent cleaners are not as limited. Some solvents are just as effective well below room temperature and above 176F.

While solvents are more versatile than water, they don’t come without risks or hidden costs. For instance, aqueous cleaning is more environmentally friendly than solvent-based cleaning. This is because of the toxic chemicals present in the solvents, which must ultimately end up somewhere in the environment.

Also, the presence of toxic chemicals in solvents means that workers will likely require advanced PPE (personal protective equipment) compared to when handling water-based cleaners. Also, some solvents are highly flammable, making them dangerous when used near possible ignition sources. Therefore, solvent cleaning typically requires stricter safety protocols.

The two methods’ suitability comes down to the type of contaminants being dealt with, the materials being cleaned, and the process requirements and constraints. Experts recommended considering all these factors for optimal results.

Ultimately, the user must choose the method that is most cost-effective and efficient. For instance, a method that requires investing in expensive pressure washing equipment may not be worth it, even if it promises the best results. Using solvent-based cleaners seems to be the best approach. Even so, the unique situation and goals will determine whether a solvent-based or a water-based method will be optimal.

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About Industrial Chem Labs and Services’ Automotive Products

Industrial Chem Labs and Services has been a leading chemical manufacturing company for over three decades. Headquartered in Deer Park, NY, Industrial Chem Labs and Services manufactures and distributes a wide range of chemical products for its vast nationwide customer base. Some of its products are automotive cleaners and maintenance items for all vehicles, including buses and heavy-duty trucks.

Among these products is the concentrated white wall tire cleaner, which is usable at full strength, the concentrated auto wash for quick penetration and cleaning, and its undiluted version, the regular auto wash.

Industry Labs also produces bus and truck wash containing concentrated detergents and butyl to remove grime, soot, and tar on large vehicles. In addition, the company produces caustic liquid degreasers for lift stations and snow plow wax which dries to a non-stick surface. It also manufactures windshield antifreeze with concentrated methyl, permanent antifreeze engine coolant, degreaser and engine cleaner as well as liquid ice melter.

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A Few Fire Products Your Office Should Have

Based in NY, Industrial Chem Labs and Services is one of America’s leading manufacturers and distributors of industrial maintenance products. Among other values, Industrial Chem Labs and Services is big on providing the best selection of long-lasting products like boiler water and cooling tower treatments to fire fighting products.

The law requires that you do a fire risk assessment if your employees are more than five. Consequently, you need specialized fire products to protect your office from fire outbreaks. One of such products is a fire log book or safety manual. They are important because they allow you to monitor and record your company’s fire safety policy while adhering to the most recent rules and regulations. It lets you maintain your fire safety records and documentation in one location.

There is a higher chance power supply in your premises will go out in the case of a fire. Emergency lighting runs on batteries and provides an appropriate backup in case your power goes out during a fire.

In an emergency, fire exit signs assist employees in finding the safest escape from the facility. Always make sure to mark the location of the emergency exits. These signs have to be observable in all lighting conditions.

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Cooling Towers and Damaging Factors Such as Corrosion

Industrial Chem Labs and Services is a Deer Park, NY-based firm that delivers quality products in the commercial cleaning, disinfectant, and maintenance sphere. Among the items Industrial Chem Labs and Services manufactures and distributes in NY is cooling tower treatments that address corrosion while treating water.

A variety of facilities require cooling towers as part of a water treatment system. These include refineries, chemical and petrochemical plants, and buildings that are simply large in size. The towers may have an integral role in industry processes or simply cool and remove water from sites.

Issues such as fouling, scaling, biological growth, and corrosion may impact the cooling tower. This is often due to the improper treatment of feed water, blowdown, or circulation water. Such corrosion can in turn impact the cooling tower’s efficiency and integrity in ways that impact water usage and energy use.

When it comes to corrosion, the most common cause is dissolved gasses, but other reasons include pH level, temperature changes, dissolved solids, and contaminants from bacteria. Among the ways of preventing corrosive damage are filtration and the use of corrosion-resistant materials. In addition, the regular use of chemical inhibitors should be considered as an integral part of operations that eliminates corrosion risks.

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Industrial Chem Labs and Services Drain Openers

Established over 30 years ago, NY-based Industrial Chem Labs and Services has served large and small enterprises in the continental United States with a wide range of maintenance products. Industrial Chem Labs and Services in NY offers quality products and special pricing on bulk orders. The company’s products include both alkaline- and acid-based drain openers.

Alkaline drain openers contain lye and use a strong base solvent to break up organic blockages. The alkaline-organic reaction releases heat, dissolving grease or fat. Industrial Chem Labs offers powdered alkaline drain openers that liquefy grease, soap scum, and oil in pipes fewer than 4 inches in diameter.

Sulfuric acid drain openers break down a wider range of blockages, including light inorganic matter, and generate heat to remove grease. For safety and ease of use, the products feature buffered sulfuric acid with additives rather than pure acid. This mixture protects users, drainage material, and the environment. All that users have to do is pour the solution down the blocked drain and wait.

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What to Know about Car Engine Cleaning

For over two decades, Industrial Chem Labs and Services NY has offered its clients a wide range of industrial maintenance products at affordable prices. Based in Deer Park, NY, Industrial Chem Labs and Services offers various automotive products, including degreaser and engine cleaners.

Engine cleaners are important, considering expert advice to clean a car engine regularly. Cleaning a car engine removes dust, debris, and grease and makes it easier to find faults that could compromise engine performance. Engine cleaning has no specific timelines since it is determined by where a car is often used.

For instance, car users who dwell in the city or urban areas with paved roads should clean their car engine at least twice a year, while those whose cars are driven on dusty roads with debris should consider an engine cleanup every three months. Car owners in areas with lots of snow or rainfall should consider an engine cleanup every two months. Even though washing a car engine is recommended, exercise caution to avoid damaging critical components such as sensors, wires, and other engine parts that are sensitive to water exposure.

To avoid costly repairs during an engine wash, experts recommend allowing an engine to cool before spraying water on hot metallic or plastic parts. Otherwise, it can lead to rapid contraction and cracking. In addition, the negative battery terminal or cable should be disconnected to prevent the risk of damaging electrical components. Parts that are sensitive to water, such as the alternator, distributor, and battery, should be well covered to avoid them getting in contact with water. An engine degreaser should first be used to remove oil, grease, and paint, among other lubricants. An engine should then be scrubbed using a brush with soft bristles, rinsed evenly using a water hose, and dried using old microfiber towels.

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Understanding Solvent Based Cleaners and How to Choose the Best Option

Since its establishment, Deer Park, NY-based Industrial Chem Labs and Services has served clients across the US and its territories with quality industrial cleaning products. Focused on ensuring the highest customer service options, Industrial Chem Labs and Services in NY has a diverse product range that includes solvent-based cleaners.

Solvent-based cleaners rely on various chemical substances to get rid of unwanted oil, grease, paint, and residue from surfaces of materials. Unlike water-based cleaners, whose main ingredient is water, solvent-based cleaners contain chemicals useful in delivering results in special cleaning procedures. However, there are some factors to consider before choosing one.

Safety

Since solvent-based cleaners rely on chemicals, they can also pose health dangers to individuals who closely work with them. It’s recommended to choose a solvent-based cleaner that doesn’t emit EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) hazardous air pollutants (HAPs). Chemicals that emit toxic substances can trigger various acute and chronic health conditions for workers.

Spectrum of Application

While some solvent-based cleaners are considered general-purpose cleaners, some are specifically made to clean certain substances. General-purpose cleaners are economical when applied for normal cleaning chores. On the other hand, maximum productivity, including time saved, is achievable when special cleaning jobs are handled using the recommended solvent cleaners.

Flammability

The flammability of a solvent cleaner is based on its flashpoint, which is the lowest temperature required for a liquid/chemical to release a vapor that can easily ignite. Lower flashpoints are easier to ignite compared to higher flashpoints. A cleaner’s flashpoint determines critical handling aspects such as use and storage. Chemicals with a high or no flashpoint are best suited for use instead of those with a low flashpoint.

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Three Ways to Spray Weed Killer Safely

Industrial Chem Labs & Services, Inc. is a New York-based company that focuses on manufacturing and distributing industrial maintenance products. One of the chemicals Industrial Chem Lab & Services, Inc. offers is weed killers.

While planting, weeds affect the growth of crops they surround, making weed killers essential. However, spraying weed is harmful and is likely to affect individuals. Some ways to spray weed killers safely include:

1. Spraying with safety equipment. The use of masks, gloves, and protective gear is vital while spraying weed killers. The masks prevent the smell from choking the sprayer, while the gloves prevent possible harm that may be caused if the chemicals touch the skin.
2. Spraying on calm days to prevent possible drifting due to the wind. The wind can divert the spray of the weed killer to other plants or a nearby water supply.
3. Keeping people and pets as far away from the spraying area. The chemicals are harmful and will have substantial repercussions if it gets on anyone; hence, no one should be allowed on the sprayed site until the chemicals dry.

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How the Whitewall Tire Was Developed

Industrial Chem Labs and Services is a Deer Park, NY, firm that offers a full range of products for degreasing, odor control, sanitization, and general cleaning. One of Industrial Chem Labs and Services’ automotive products is a concentrated cleaner designed specifically for whitewall tires.

Whitewall tires are named for the off-white hue of natural rubber, which made up the first commercial tires produced. Zinc oxide was used to brighten the color until BFGoodrich introduced carbon black in 1910 as a way of boosting rubber durability and strength. Black sidewall tires soon became the standard.

The whitewall tire was an accident that resulted from early cost-cutting, as some manufacturers only added carbon black to the surface tread. This resulted in white sidewalls that were ultimately refined into a decorative element. A white rubber strip would be added to an all-black carcass during the production process. A popular tire upgrade as part of an “appearance package,” the whitewall’s popularity continued until the early 1960s, when wide whitewall tire models were phased out.

Since the mid-1990s, wide whitewall tires have again become commonly available and are prized among custom builders and hot rod enthusiasts. Given their aesthetic function and susceptibility to dirt and grime, owners of vehicles with whitewall tires must clean them with a quality product on a regular basis.

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