A cleaning solvent is nothing but a chemical compound utilized to dissolve, soften, melt, and extract another component or compound. There are two types of chemical solvents utilized in the industry: organic and non-organic.

Organic clean-up solvents usually contain carbon as the major cleaning element. It is used to remove stains, glue, dry-clean fabrics, and paint marks. On the other hand, inorganic solvents don’t have carbon as the major component. These are used in research labs and have very few applications in the manufacturing or commercial industries.

Types of Clean-Up Solvents Used in Manufacturing Industries

Since organic clean-up solvents are the best type for cleaning stains, marks, and paints, these are commonly utilized in the manufacturing industries. Below we have discussed some common clean-up solvents:

• Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol isopropyl alcohol, which is a commonly utilized clean-up solvent. In reality, many clean-up solvents used in commercial or manufacturing applications contain 70% rubbing alcohol. This mixture is diluted with 30% water, which makes the entire clean-up solvent safe for human contact.

Rubbing alcohol is the best-known cleaning agent. It is great for removing stains from clothes, upholstery, bathroom mirrors, and windows. You can even remove dirt and dust from your smartphone with rubbing alcohol.

• Water

Water is a universal clean-up solvent, which is widely utilized in both commercial and residential settings.

Usually, scientists select solvents based on the dissolve-like principle. The reason why water is considered a universal solvent is that it can dissolve bases and acids alike. When you need a clean-up solvent in a commercial setting, such as to wash an area, you can easily use water with a chemical to remove debris, dirt, and stains.

• Acetone

Acetone is not as mild as isopropyl alcohol or as strong as hexane, but it is a moderately strong solvent. This solvent is generally present in our nail-paint removers. However, when using this clean-up solvent, you should be extra careful, as it can catch fire easily. The flammability of this solvent is high so it can be easily hazardous.

We can use this clean-up solvent in various applications, such as removing super glue, restoring leather shine, cleaning adhesives from a surface, etc.

• Hexane

As already discussed, hexane is a strong clean-up solvent used in commercial applications. Using this solvent, rust hinges can be lubricated and zippers can be loosened. This clean-up solvent is so effective in cleaning and other applications because it has a hydrocarbon base. This base is effective in removing stains and spills, which don’t dissolve in water. For example, you can clean grease, crayon stains, vegetable oil, and lipstick with this solvent.

However, this chemical compound is strong, so you need to handle it with care. This means that you can clean with this solvent in open and ventilated areas only. It is flammable and toxic, so keep it away from flames for your safety. 

• Xylene

Xylene is the most aggressive clean-up solvent on our list. This type of solvent is used to clean tools and equipment. If you use it on plastics and paints, you can damage the surface quite easily. 

Some Important Tips to Utilize Clean-Up Solvents in the Right Way

Once you have explored the above organic clean-up solvents, review these tips that you need to follow to correctly handle clean-up solvents.

    • On any surface, such as a tool or equipment, don’t directly apply clean-up solvent. Use a rag or washup cloth and take small amounts on it to clean the dirty surface. If you use too much solvent, it can end up ruining the surface that you are cleaning. So, add clean-up solvent in small amounts only.

    • If you are cleaning a soiled surface, then use a new or fresh rag. Using old or dirty rags will only spread the dirt on the surface of the equipment or tool.

    • When you are cleaning an area, equipment, or tool, then apply clean-up solvent in a well-ventilated and open area only. It is also necessary to wear appropriate masks and gloves to avoid getting in direct contact with the clean-up solvent. Always wear protective gear to avoid getting hurt during a spill or fire.

    • After cleaning a surface, wait for the entire clean-up solvent to remove or evaporate. There should be no residue left behind once you start using this equipment or tool. Using the surface when it still has solvent can be risky.

    • If you are having doubts about the efficiency of the solvent, then use it on a small patch or a plastic or paint first. After this, you can use it on the surface.

Conclusion

In commercial industries or manufacturing firms, clean-up solvents are necessary to keep tools, areas, and equipment clean, and in proper shape. However, using the right type of clean-up solvent is important to maintain tools and equipment properly. Hence, read the above tips and find out the right type of organic solvent for your manufacturing unit.