Acetone: An Economically Efficient Powder Coating Equipment Cleaner

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Using Acetone as a Inexpensive Solvent to Clean Powder Coating and for Surface Preparation

powder coating sprayer

Coating system providers often dedicate their full attention to providing the highest quality and environmentally responsible products in their industry, a goal shared by us here at Ecolink. Powder coating products often contain no hazardous waste and have low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) or HAPs (Hazardous Air Pollutants) content, in order to meet today’s environmental demands. We have seen customers maximize transfer efficiency with up to 98% product utilization for coating operations, which in plain English means less product gets wasted during the coating process. With powder coatings, waste is further reduced since over sprayed material can still be re-used. Ecolink has provided cleaning products to the liquid and powder coating industry for many years and we want to show our support to the industry by offering chemical solutions with equal environmentally preferred specifications.

Recently we’ve noted the application of Acetone in cleaning equipment used for transportation and performance powder coatings. Acetone is an effective solvent for general cleaning and, unlike many alternatives, keeps overhead low. It is one of the least regulated options available while still remaining a safe choice.

Interested in spending less on Acetone? Call (800) 563-1305 to speak with a representative or email us at acetone@ecolink.com.

Surface Preparation and Equipment Cleaning

Acetone is a mild solvent that is proficient at cleaning critical surfaces of metal, plastic, and composite materials for powder coating color preparation. Additionally, it can be used to sanitize coating equipment before and after operations and remove powder coatings when needed. This product is commonly applied as a high-strength degreaser and can dissolve contaminants such as grease, paint, and organic substances.

With Great Cleaning Power Comes Great Responsibility

The chemical Acetone is not dangerous, however, it is a solvent and must be handled responsibly. The solution is a colorless liquid that is water soluble. Acetone has a low boiling point meaning it is flammable and should be kept away from heat. Dispose of any excess material properly in a sealed metal container to avoid spontaneous combustion. Acetone is not a hazardous air pollutant but safe handling precautions should be exercised to prevent consumption, inhalation, and absorption. Apply the solvent in an area with proper ventilation and do not use it on items that may dissolve such as fabric.

Purchase Acetone for Your Cleaning Needs Here

Ecolink offers a competitive price for Acetone in bulk with 55 Gallon Drums under $500! 5 Gallon Pails are available with low minimum quantities. Call (800) 563-1305 for aditional information or send an email to acetone@ecolink.com.

Organic Solvents – Safe & Effective Cleaning Agents

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Any substance capable of dissolving and dispersing another substance is considered to be a solvent. Cleaners or degreasers containing carbon as part of their molecular structure are referred to as organic solvents. These substances can be found in countless products including varnishes, adhesives, paints, cleaning agents, and glues. They are also used in the production of items such as dyes, textiles, and plastics. Numerous organic solvents are labeled as carcinogens, reproductive hazards, or neurotoxins because of the harmful materials included as part of their chemical makeup. A number of chemical compounds may be used to create organic solvents such as:  

  • Amines
  • Esters
  • Ethers
  • Ketones
  • Hydrocarbons

Any gas, liquid, or solid chemical compound containing carbon is considered to be organic. Classifications vary based on a number of factors; however, the easiest to recognize distinction is between natural and synthetic compounds. A natural organic solvent is derived from plants or animals and is extracted from a natural source because it is cheaper than attempting to develop it artificially. Synthetic compounds are created through the reaction of other substances, which can come from nature or be artificial. Organic solvents consisting of no artificial compounds deliver the safest option for cleaning, degreasing, or other processes.

Choosing an Eco-Friendly Solution

Various alternatives to powerful, carcinogenic substances have been created to provide eco-friendly, effective solvents. One of the largest misconceptions in the area of cleaning agents is that potent chemicals are required to do the trick. While in some cases this is true, countless industrial processes may be performed with a natural organic solvent. Cleaning agents applied for degreasing, general dirt removal, or surface preparation are frequently petroleum-based meaning they release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and emit Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs) at normal temperatures. This means these items are released as the product is being used well as during storage. Traditional organic solvents entering soil or water sources continue to remain present for an extended amount of time thus causing pollution. Individuals exposed to these agents continuously or in large doses are also likely to suffer from severe health problems.

An environmentally friendly organic solvent releases minimum to no VOC’s or HAP’s into the surrounding atmosphere. Eco-friendly cleaners provide the same results but do not contain hazardous materials, offer a high flash point, have minimal to no odor, and are not aqueous based. These alternatives provide the safest option when water-based solutions will simply not work for industrial processes. It is also important to note the difference between a natural organic solvent and environmentally preferred products. Natural cleaning agents consist of all plant or animal derived ingredients whereas an environmentally preferred solvent simply meets all standards lined out by the Environmental Protection Agency. In some instances an “all natural” organic solvent may not have enough strength to provide the required cleaning results; however, several more powerful choices are available through manufacturers to ensure industrial needs can be fulfilled without posing significant harm to the environment.

Organic solvents are necessary in a number of industries and play a pivotal safety role in the workplace. For more information about environmentally friendly, low VOC products, please call (800) 886-8240 or email info@ecolink.com.