Aqueous Vs Solvent Degreasing
Essential to industrial cleaning, degreasing is the process for cleaning parts & components. The variety of methods within the degreasing industry means the chemicals and machinery can greatly differ.
Having recently looked into two of the most popular techniques, vapour degreasing with solvents and aqueous cleaning using water-based detergents, we know each method has strengths and weaknesses.
If you are unsure of the processes, before proceeding to read this article, visit our previous articles Vapour Degreasing Made Simple & An Introduction to Aqueous Component Degreasing.
Aqueous Degreasing
Seen as the more accessible technique, there is no shortage of options for water-based degreasing as many aspects of the process are completely variable to achieve the best result possible.
These can include the machines themselves as they start from 2-3 tanks with a range of cleaning solutions to go with them. Multistage machines will rinse and agitate the components in water solutions to target the soil and contamination on the parts. The finished process leaves the components cleaned and ready for drying.
Vapour Degreasing
The solvent alternative to aqueous degreasing, vapour degreasing heats solvent solutions in an enclosed tank with the components located above it the solution. The chemical vapours dissolve the soil & contaminates off the components.
Followed by a final rinse in the solvent, parts then dry out by themselves as the solvent has a low boiling point causing it to evaporate.
Pros & Cons of Each Technique
Aqueous Degreasing
Aqueous cleaning is cheaper when investing in a cleaning line as the machines don’t need to be sealed or enclosed. With the cleaning solutions considered operator safe, less PPC is required to be worn.
The variety of cleaning solutions available from detergents to emulsifiers allows users to adapt their cleaning processes to remove specific contaminants such as salts. Although with multiple solutions, the operators need to be cautious of cross contamination as some solutions may react with others or transfer the soils.
Heating multiple tanks of water solution to high temperatures required by many solutions can consume a lot of energy. Although, the higher temperatures are not always compatible with all materials such as softer metals as it causes cavitation to the surface.
Cleaning the tanks is relatively easy as the solutions can just be washed away but the maintenance can be a bit trickier. The natural properties of water being corrosive against metals mean it is critical to look after the machines as the solutions can deteriorate the tanks themselves.
The cleaning process itself cleans the components to a high quality but they are still wet afterwards. Drying the parts may include having to buy additional machinery or add stages to the cleaning line, adding more time to the process. Despite these additional measures, water streaks are still common.
Solvent Degreasing
With a lower surface tension, the cleaning of vapour degreasing is highly praised. After a cleaning cycle, the components are dry and streak free as the solvent evaporates away. Along with the fast acting chemical reaction of the cleaning process, the process can take as little as 10 minutes.
Solvents are very effective against most contaminants from oils to dirt (especially on metals), making the process very reliable.
Despite its cleaning qualities, the history of solvent degreasing has not always been positive. In the 1980s carcinogenic and environmentally damaging properties of the solvents came to light, resulting in strict limitations and legislation. Modern solvents and machinery have mitigated these concerns so solvent cleaning is widely used.
The cost of solvent can be expensive but as the method is a closed-loop process, the recycled liquid can go a long way; but it does have to be professionally disposed of when replaced.
For a direct comparison, below is a chart displaying some key factors to consider when buying a degreasing line.
| Aqueous | Solvent |
Average Process Time | 45-60 Minutes | 10 Minutes |
Standard Floorspace | 2-3 Tanks & More | 1-2 Tanks |
Average Heating Temperatures | 100˚C | 40˚C |
Surface Tension | Low | Very Low |
Require Drying | Yes | No |
Liquid Usage | 4500 litres/week | 4 litres/week |
Summary
Despite vapour degreasing seeming to be the better cleaning process for its quality of cleaning, the cost investment and legislation for solvent usage is critical to consider. We recommend for someone looking to invest in solvent cleaning always do their research as once you get it right, you’ll get it right every time.
As for aqueous cleaning, it became popular when the risks of solvents were realised and industries were looking for the next best alternative. It is recognised that the quality may not be as perfect as vapour degreasing but it still cleans to a very high standard. The cost & simplicity of the method makes it a lot more approachable for small to medium cleaning productions.
Overall, both methods are good for different reasons much like the components they clean. Vapour degreasing is most popular in the aerospace industry where the metal components need to meet the utmost precision. While aqueous cleaning has been strongly adopted by companies for small to medium cleaning production. Both have their own strengths and weaknesses which benefit different demands of cleaning.
As Rileys sells both the solvent and aqueous cleaning machines, if you are unsure which direction to invest in for a cleaning line call our team for advice at +44(0)1922 45 8000.
Riley Multiclean 2-120 Ultrasonic Washing & Rinsing Cleaning Line
The Riley Ultrasonic Cleaning and wash machine is a 2 stage operation. Built from 304 Stainless Steel the quality is clear to see at an excellent price.
- Stock No
- DA1400
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Riley Multiclean 2-120
- Year of Manufacture
- 2022
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 670 x 540 x 450
- Process Stages
- 2 Stages, Ultrasonic wash and rinse
- Condition
- Brand New, Current Model
- Availability:
- Available subject to build time
- Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Firbimatic SF 200 V Compliant Totally Enclosed Solvent Degreaser with ICS TAE EVO Chiller
A fully automatic, very large capacity, solvent de-greaser with steam generator and ICS TAE EVO 251 MTA chiller unit. Designed to work with Perchloroethylene. Operates with swing action baskets that rock from side to side. Unit is fully programmable and total solvent recycling & low consumption via carbon recovery.
- Stock No
- DA1425J
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Firbimatic SF 200 V
- Year of Manufacture
- 2008
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 750 x 2000 x 750, Cap. 500Kgs
- Process Stages
- Four - Wash, Immersion, Vapour & Dry
- Other Info
- Solvent Percloroetilene C2CL4
- Condition
- Seen working by RSW, Excellent Condition
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
D and S Ultraclean (ICI) Cleanfast DLS Model E165V Vapour Degreaser
A used stainless steel, semi-automatic, enclosed solvent vapour degreaser plant from the ICI range of cleaning machines. Degreaser used with Perchloroethylene. Double lid.
- Stock No
- DB1458
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- D and S Ultraclean (ICI) Cleanfast DLS Model E165V
- Year of Manufacture
- 1999
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 500 x 500 x 700 s.w.l.30kg Max. Load.
- Process Stages
- 2 Stage Liquid immersion vapor rinse/dry
- Other Info
- Automatic cleaning cycle EPA PP6/23 Comp
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition, Seen powered at RSW
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Turbex AC-1,3-2 -LD Front Loading Spray Washer
The AC two stage spray washing range is perfect for water based cleaning on medium to large components, where a single detergent wash followed with a rinse is sufficient. Features 1100mm diameter load.
- Stock No
- DC1483
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Turbex AC-1,3-2 -LD
- Year of Manufacture
- 2006
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 1000 x 1000 x 900
- Process Stages
- Two Stage, Wash and Rinse
- Other Info
- 800Kg Load Capacity
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Firbimatic FD100VSS Totally Enclosed Solvent Cleaning Machine
Solvent based metal degreasing machine designed to be used with 'perchloroethylene'. Multiple wash options including ultrasonic, static, swivel or rotation of wash basket, pre-wash, wash, vapour clean and 2 rinse cycles. Complete with a self contained air cooled package chiller, TEA EVO 051. ** Approx. €95k NEW **
- Stock No
- DC1484
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Firbimatic FD100 VSS
- Year of Manufacture
- 2012
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 270 x 430 x 130
- Process Stages
- 6 Stages
- Other Info
- 50kg max capacity
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition, Current Model
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Vixen Surface Treatments Agisonic 100 Dunk Wash Machine with Ultrasonic and Fixtures Sparge Jetting
This second hand Agisonic is a programmable multi-function wash plant which comprises dunk wash plus ultrasonic functions coupled to a separate wash cycle. There are sparge jets for washing out blind holes or recesses. Components can be set on special jigs, which direct the jets into the hard-to-clean places.
- Stock No
- DC1490
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Vixen Surface Treatments Agisonic 100
- Year of Manufacture
- 2008
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 1000 x 500 x (400 fluid depth)
- Process Stages
- 3 Stages. Ultrasonic, Dunking & Jetting.
- Other Info
- Multi Stage Solution Filtration.
- Condition
- Refurbished by RSW, Excellent Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
ICI Special Cleanfast DLS E265V Enclosed Low Emission Solvent Degreasing Plant
ICI E265V Special vapour degreasing plant, carrier size of 900mm x 450mm x 550mm (H) offers a compliant solvent vapour phase cleaning cycle in a single operation. Complete with a unique ICI double lid sealing system, this immersion single-stage process tank can also be used with any wet process requiring fume extraction.
- Stock No
- DC1509
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- ICI E265V
- Year of Manufacture
- 1998
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 900 x 450 x 550
- Process Stages
- Single stage vapour degreaser
- Other Info
- Low consumption plant. 250Kg SWL
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Ecoclean EcoCWave Automatic Industrial Cleaning System
Durr Ecoclean ® EcoCWave automatic industrial cleaning system. This system offers the user an infinitely variable set up for the cleaning and drying of a wide range of components, using a combination of flood washing, spray washing, ultrasonic cleaning, fixed, rotating or swivelling basket movement. Hot air and vacuum drying.
- Stock No
- DC1514
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Ecoclean EcoCWave
- Year of Manufacture
- 2017
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 670 x 480 x 300
- Process Stages
- 3xclean/rinse/Ultrasonic/Hot air+vac dry
- Other Info
- Full Serviced Dec 2023
- Condition
- Excellent Condition, Current Model, Seen powered at RSW
Kerry ( Guyson International ) Microsolve 250M 3 Stage Mono-Solvent Degreaser
The Kerry Microsolve M250M Mono-Solvent vapour degreasing system manufactured by Guyson has three process stages comprising of cleaning, followed by vapour rinsing and freeboard drying.
- Stock No
- DC1519
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Kerry ( Guyson International ) Microsolve M250M
- Year of Manufacture
- 1998
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 250 x 200 x 250mm
- Process Stages
- Liquid Immersion - Vapour Rinse & Dry
- Other Info
- SED Compliant solvent degreaser
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
CC Hydrosonics CCH Solvac S1000 Ultrasonic Solvent Degreaser
The Solvac S1000 Mono-Solvent system manufactured by CC Hydrosonics has three process stages comprising of ultrasonic cleaning with or without basket rotation, followed by vapour phase rinsing and freeboard drying.
- Stock No
- DC1521
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- CC Hydrosonics S1000
- Year of Manufacture
- 2008
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 700 x 300 x 600 Approx.
- Process Stages
- 3 Stage Immersion, vapour rinse, and dry
- Other Info
- Stacked Immersion Ultrasonic, Rinse, dry
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
Kerry ( Guyson International ) Microclean 525/5A Five Stage Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine
Kerry Microclean 525/5A Five stage ultrasonic cleaning, DI rinsing and hot air drying, complete with Autotrans Mk4 30kg robotic basket handling and conveyor system.
.
- Stock No
- DD1526
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Kerry ( Guyson International ) Microclean MF525/5A
- Year of Manufacture
- 2002
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 415 x 525 x 350mm
- Process Stages
- 5
- Other Info
- Autotrans Mk4 robotic handler included
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Optimal Novatec HFC Ultrasonic, Precision Cleaning Unit
The three stages of Optimal vapour degreaser comprises of immersion and ultrasonic cleaning, followed by vapour phase rinsing and freeboard drying. The unit works from relays and timers so no PLC or software obsolescence issues.
- Stock No
- DD1527
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Optimal 1S 30/400
- Year of Manufacture
- 2004
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Basket = 200 x 200 x 300
- Process Stages
- Immersion, Ultrasonic, Vapor Rinse, Dry
- Other Info
- Tank size, 350 x 250 x 300
- Condition
- Seen working by RSW, Excellent Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Kerry ( Guyson International ) 450 Microclean Machine with Autotrans MK3 Robotic handler
Kerry Four stage ultrasonic aqueous cleaning system with Autotrans MK3 Robotic handler. Microclean Compact systems suit a wide range of cleaning needs in aerospace, automotive, electronics and other related industries.
- Stock No
- DD1528J
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Kerry ( Guyson International ) COM MK2B 450A
- Year of Manufacture
- 1997
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 450 x 325 x 350mm
- Process Stages
- 4 Stage, 3 wet stages plus hot air dry
- Other Info
- Basket Size - 400 x 275 x 300 (150mm)
- Condition
- Seen working by RSW, Good Condition
- Location
- Arriving in our warehouse soon
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Branson 3SLE Ultrasonic Solvent Degreaser
Branson 3SLE three-stage systems provide ultrasonic immersed cleaning using HFE (hydrofluoroether) or HFC (hydrofluoro-carbon) solvents, followed by vapour rinsing and freeboard drying.
- Stock No
- DX1246
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Branson 3SLE
- Year of Manufacture
- 2010
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Internal basket size 590 x 270 x 330
- Process Stages
- 3
- Other Info
- Only used sparingly in light industry
- Condition
- Seen working by RSW, Excellent Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
CC Hydrosonics Ultrasonic Solvent Precision Cleaning Machine
The SOLVAC TM Sealed Cleaning System has the technical capability of running most Non Flammable Solvents, via simple temperature adjustment ideal for any Precision Cleaning Application where a Solvent Process is deemed necessary.
- Stock No
- DX1285J
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- CC Hydrosonics Solvac TM sealed cleaning process
- Year of Manufacture
- 2005
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Baskets 390x270x200
- Process Stages
- 3 immersion stage + vapour rinse & dry
- Other Info
- High output/through put automatic plant
- Condition
- From a working environment, Excellent Condition, Current Model
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
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