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What are the Different Types of Solvent Degreaser?

C. Daw
C. Daw

There are many different types of solvent degreasers, for numerous different tasks, but the basic categories are industrial, metal, vapor, cleaners, and ultrasonic. Each type is designed for specific applications, and they can be used for various job tasks. When deciding which type of solvent degreaser to use, a few important points should be considered for each individual group. Even though there are various types of solvent degreaser products, the most important aspect to remember is that they are up to the standards of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The first type of solvent degreaser deals with industrial degreasing tasks and applications. These types of degreasers are commonly used in businesses, such as restaurants and cafes, that require cooking grease to be removed on a regular basis. Various factories and assembly line warehouses also use this type of industrial degreaser because of the machines often cause grease to build up on the floors and equipment. The industrial solvent degreaser, even though designed for more complicated tasks, can also be used in various applications by private individuals, and is one of the most common garage and driveway degreasers that are available.

Highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals are used for industrial degreasing solvents.
Highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals are used for industrial degreasing solvents.

The second type of degreaser that can be used are metal degreasers. This type of solvent degreaser is commonly used when cleaning vehicles, engines, and other types of machinery that have a grease build up. Engine degreasers are one such type, and this style is used for tasks that include cleaning motors, bearings, joints, and any other type of task that requires metal to be degreased. There are even some metal degreasers that are immersion tanks, in which the parts are soaked in a bath, similar to the carburetor cleaner tanks. No matter what the design or type is though, the metal degreaser is the only way to remove tough grease from metal parts and pieces.

Restaurants and small eating establishments often use highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals for cleaning and sanitizing areas where grease gathers quickly.
Restaurants and small eating establishments often use highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals for cleaning and sanitizing areas where grease gathers quickly.

The third solvent degreaser that can be used is a vapor degreaser. Vapor degreasers are units that contain two separate tanks, each storing a different solvent. Instead of degreasing with a fluid type of chemical, the vapor degreaser allows the area to be degreased with a chemical filled vapor. After the vapor has formed, the parts that need to be cleaned are placed into some type of holding device, usually a basket, and then are placed above the vapors. The vapor then works the grease away from the parts and effectively cleans them without having to be submerged in the solvents.

Ultrasonic degreasers may be used to clean jewelry.
Ultrasonic degreasers may be used to clean jewelry.

The fourth type of solvent used for degreasing are the solvent cleaners. A solvent cleaner is a form of degreaser that acts as a cleaner as well as removing grease from specific areas. This product is commonly used in cooking areas, where grease has to be removed while sanitizing the area. This type of solvent degreaser adds two components into one product, allowing degreasing and cleaning to become a combined job, rather than separate ones.

The ultrasonic degreasers are the last type of solvent degreaser that can be used. This type of unit is similar to the vapor degreasers, but it uses ultrasonic waves to clean the parts. The parts that need to be degreased are placed into the tank, and then are sealed off. The ultrasonic components are then turned on for the desired amount of time. This type of degreaser is commonly used for smaller applications, such as jewelry and tools because of the size of the tanks used.

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    • Highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals are used for industrial degreasing solvents.
      By: Ioana Davies (Drutu)
      Highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals are used for industrial degreasing solvents.
    • Restaurants and small eating establishments often use highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals for cleaning and sanitizing areas where grease gathers quickly.
      By: CandyBox Images
      Restaurants and small eating establishments often use highly concentrated, caustic and flammable chemicals for cleaning and sanitizing areas where grease gathers quickly.
    • Ultrasonic degreasers may be used to clean jewelry.
      By: april_89
      Ultrasonic degreasers may be used to clean jewelry.