Custom metal fabrication with Metko delivers quality and precision. With tight tolerances and on-time delivery, we provide unique product configurations, standardized products, and premium showcase pieces.
Metko specializes in fabrication of 1/4″ and lighter sheet metal, with capabilities to cut up to 1-1/8″ thick. Our metal fabrication equipment is high tech, leading-edge, and lets us manufacture almost any shape.
Electropolishing is essential when it comes to components requiring a smooth, polished surface that enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of both finished metal components and those to be further refined. But when is electropolishing needed, comparing electropolishing cases to other similar processes to smooth out materials?
Understanding Electropolishing Cases
Before exploring where and when electropolishing is needed, it is important to understand the definition of electropolishing first:
Electropolishing is an electrochemical process that removes a thin layer of material from a metal surface, like sanding or belt grinding, but through an electric-chemical process that both cleans and polishes the workpiece, resulting in a mirror-like finish that mechanical processes cannot fully replicate.
When is Electropolishing Needed?
When it comes to electropolishing cases, a few unique markers call for the use of this unique electrochemical process.
Surface Finish and Aesthetics: When parts require a shiny, quality surface, electropolishing is the go-to method. The electropolishing process produces a highly reflective, smooth, wear-free surface that is visually appealing and can reduce friction and overall wear.
Corrosion Resistance: In cases where enhanced corrosion resistance is crucial, electropolishing is essential in order to remove lingering surface contaminants and imperfections that can lead to corrosion, errors in the painting process, or functional problems when installed as part of a mechanism.
Micro-deburring: When components are milled or processed in even the most complex of manufacturing environments for precise tolerances and no sharp edges, electropolishing is required to clean the piece by removing microscopic burrs and imperfections invisible to the naked eye which could interfere with further processing or functionality of the part.
Cleanability: In industries where clean components are essential, such as in semiconductor manufacturing, medical devices, high-tech machinery parts, or other decimeter-accurate fields, electropolishing is essential to clean and sterilize surfaces, turning them into polished pieces that resist bacterial growth, overheating, and work wear.
Does Electropolishing Remove Material?
Does electropolishing remove material? The answer is yes; electropolishing removes a thin material layer from a metal surface. This removed material is typically in the range of 0.0001 to 0.002 inches, depending on the final product’s process parameters, workpiece, and desired finish. This precise removal method gives electropolished parts a superior finish and functionality all while removing a negligible layer of material that won’t interfere with most industrial designs.
Electropolishing Cases Across Industries
Electropolishing is utilized in industries worldwide that require precise components, including the medical field, for example. The medical field requires well-smoothed surgical instruments and implants, which often undergo final electropolishing to free them of contaminants and offer a smooth surface that won’t conflict with the body or harbor bacteria.
Another of many electropolishing cases, the aerospace field, calls for electropolished components to improve wind resistance, reduce fatigue, and ensure optimal performance in critical applications like landing gear.
When is Electropolishing Needed? Often!
Whether your electropolishing cases are for aesthetic purposes, corrosion resistance, micro-deburring, cleanability, or a combination of many processing factors, electropolishing carries varied benefits that make it an essential process in most applications.
In industries demanding high standards of cleanliness and compliance to regulations, Cleansol LLC, shines as a specialized contractor. Serving primarily the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and semiconductor sectors, Cleansol LLC, under the leadership of President Eduardo Perez, offers a comprehensive suite of cleaning and passivation services. With a focus on precision and purity, including specialized offerings like oxygen cleaning, the company stands as a trusted partner for businesses requiring utmost cleanliness and regulatory compliance.
Understanding Oxygen Cleaning
Oxygen cleaning refers to the meticulous process of eliminating combustible contaminants from equipment and components that operate in oxygen-rich environments. Oxygen cleaning procedure is crucial to prevent combustion, thereby ensuring safety and system reliability.
The oxygen cleaning procedure involves several stages, including pre-cleaning to remove gross contaminants, precision cleaning to eliminate finer residues, and rigorous testing to ensure all contaminants have been effectively removed. Various cleaning methods are employed, such as ultrasonic cleaning, solvent cleaning, and aqueous cleaning, each chosen based on the specific materials and contaminants involved. Ensuring thorough oxygen cleaning is vital for maintaining the safety and reliability of systems used in various industries.
Reasons for Oxygen Cleaning
Oxygen cleaning procedure is essential across various industries to prevent contamination, safeguarding against the introduction of substances like oils, greases, and particulates into oxygen-rich environments, which could lead to fire hazards or compromise equipment performance. Ensuring safety and reliability is critical, as components must be oxygen-compatible to mitigate risks such as explosions or the formation of toxic gasses. This indicates the necessity for strict cleaning procedures. Industry standards and guidelines, such as ASTM G93, CGA G-4.1, and NASA-STD-6001, play a crucial role in dictating oxygen cleaning procedures and testing methods, ensuring cleanliness verification, and regulatory compliance across various sectors.
Industries Requiring Oxygen Cleaning
Cleansol LLC is a reputable company that provides specialized contracting services to various industries. We offer reliable oxygen cleaning services to three main sectors: the Biotechnological, Pharmaceutical, and Semiconductor industries.
Biotechnological Industry: Equipment used in bioreactors, fermenters, and other bioprocessing systems requires oxygen cleaning to prevent contamination and ensure the purity of biotechnological products.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment, storage tanks, and pipelines necessitate oxygen cleaning to maintain sterility and meet regulatory standards for drug production.
Semiconductor Industry: Semiconductor manufacturing processes involve sensitive equipment such as gas delivery systems, valves, and chambers that require oxygen cleaning to remove contaminants and ensure precise functioning.
Materials and Components Suitable for Oxygen Cleaning
Oxygen cleaning procedure is a vital process for various materials and components, ensuring their optimal performance in oxygen-enriched environments. Commonly cleaned materials include stainless steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, and glass. By subjecting these materials to thorough cleaning procedures, their performance life is extended, and safe operating conditions are maintained, thereby minimizing risks associated with contamination and compatibility issues.
Oxygen Cleaning with Cleansol LLC
In industries where cleanliness can mean the difference between safety and catastrophe, oxygen cleaning plays a crucial role. Cleansol LLC is your top choice for oxygen cleaning services, offering expertise honed by seasoned professionals across various industries. With cutting-edge technology and stringent safety protocols, we deliver optimal cleaning results while prioritizing safety and regulatory compliance. Cleansol LLC is the partner you can rely on to elevate your oxygen cleaning needs. Get in touch with us today or email us at service@cleansol.us, and we will help you maintain the highest standards of safety and performance in your operations.
Oxygen cleaning is a critical process in industries where the purity of oxygen contact surfaces is paramount. This specialized cleaning procedure is a process to help remove contaminants like oil, grease, organic or inorganic from vats, tanks, and other containers
We do oxidation services by purifying tanks, vats, equipment and other industrial containers from the dangers of their product mixing with the residue chemicals, by cleaning them with either liquid or gaseous oxygen. Continue reading to learn more about this essential process
Understanding Oxygen Cleaning
Oxygen cleaning refers to the process of purifying equipment designed for operation with liquid or gaseous oxygen. In oxygen-enriched environments, contaminants represent significant hazards. Employed in industrial contexts, this cleaning method is critical for removing flammable contaminants and mitigating the risk of fires or explosions.
The fundamental difference between oxygen cleaning and standard cleaning procedures lies in the level of cleanliness required and the method of removing contaminants. Standard cleaning may involve removing visible dirt, grime, and oils from surfaces, often focusing on aesthetic cleanliness rather than eliminating potential chemical reactants.
In contrast, oxygen cleaning goes beyond surface cleanliness to remove microscopic particles and organic or inorganic substances that could ignite or react when exposed to high oxygen concentrations. This requires specialized solvents, equipment, and techniques to achieve a level of purity where the equipment can be safely used in oxygen-rich environments.
Oxygen Cleaning Procedure
The oxygen cleaning procedure entails several critical steps to completely remove contaminants and achieve the necessary purity level for safe operation in oxygen-enriched environments. Here’s a step-by-step look at how this vital procedure is carried out:
Clean Area Preparation: The procedure begins in a designated clean area of the facility, far from active production units. This separation minimizes the risk of contamination during the cleaning process.
Disassembly: The components requiring cleaning are carefully disassembled. This step allows thorough access to all surfaces, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning process.
Pre-Wash: All disassembled components undergo a pre-wash stage. This initial wash is crucial for removing excess oils, grease cuttings, and other materials that may have accumulated during regular operation.
Degreaser Wash: After the pre-wash, the components undergo a final wash with a specialized degreaser. This removes any remaining contaminants, leaving the surfaces clean and ready for oxygen service.
Drying: Following the degreaser wash, components are dried meticulously using a sanitized, lint-free cloth. This drying stage is essential to eliminate any moisture that could lead to corrosion or contamination.
Full Examination: A technician inspects all components before assembly. This thorough examination ensures no contaminants or residues are overlooked, guaranteeing the equipment’s readiness for oxygen use.
Assembly: Once the components are thoroughly dried and inspected, they are carefully reassembled according to precise specifications. This assembly process is critical for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the equipment post-cleaning.
Following these meticulous steps, the oxygen cleaning procedure achieves the cleanliness and purity necessary for safe and efficient operation in oxygen-enriched environments. This systematic approach ensures maximum efficiency, safety, and compliance with standards across various industries.
Secure Your Operations with Expert Oxygen Cleaning Services
Understanding what oxygen cleaning is and the meticulous cleaning procedure highlights its critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of equipment in oxygen-enriched environments. Cleansol LLC provides professional oxygen cleaning services that adhere to ISO standards, ensuring that your equipment meets the highest safety and quality benchmarks.
With a 24-hour turnaround service, we are committed to minimizing downtime and maintaining the optimal performance of your systems. Contact us today to learn more about how our expert services can support your operational needs.
Do you ever struggle to determine which of your systems require chemical cleaning? It can be hard to know for sure – after all, the importance and necessity depend on various factors, such as what sort of systems are being cleaned and how often. Furthermore, it is essential for many machines and systems, but not all.
Knowing what type of systems require chemical cleaning can be confusing, even if you’re an experienced professional. However, with a better understanding of why you should implement it in your daily operations, you can optimize various cleaning processes while creating an even cleaner environment.
What is Chemical Cleaning?
Chemical cleaning is a process where different kinds of chemicals are used to clean out deposits and other contaminants from a system as well as sanitization of those systems that require (ex: potable water). It’s why numerous industries require chemical cleaning to ensure their systems are sterile and ready for production.
Many systems need cleaning to ensure they remain safe and effective. It can include cooling towers, industrial boilers, HVAC systems, cooling towers, and Chill and reheat water systems. Professional cleaners can also clean heavily fouled equipment or tanks before they are returned to service.
There are different types you can choose from that are available today. Some of these are the following:
Acid cleaning
Alkaline cleaning
Detergent cleaning
Disinfection
Blow-Out
These types of chemical cleaning are developed to improve the efficiency of your system. At the same time, the proper method can prevent equipment malfunction. These solutions are also used as preventative maintenance to ensure your operation is 100%.
Different Systems that Require Chemical Cleaning
Innumerable systems and equipment require different kinds of chemical cleaning to enhance their lifespan and ensure they run optimally. Some of these can include the following:
Pharmaceutical mixers: Pharmaceutical mixers and blenders are mixing equipment used to manufacture chemicals and pharmaceuticals. They are designed to handle small or large ingredients for industrial mixing. The mixers must be cleaned regularly with a chemical cleaner to prevent contamination, protect the quality of the product, and guarantee that the equipment performs up to par.
Industrial Pipe Systems: Industrial pipes that accumulate mineral deposits can cause problems with flow and efficiency. Here, acid cleaning is utilized since it can help remove these deposits, allowing the tubes to work better and last longer.
Brewing tanks: Breweries utilize brewing tanks for fermentation, storage, and other processes. Without detergent cleaning, sludge can build up in the tanks over time, causing them to be inefficient and hazardous.
Oxygen pipelines: Another system where alkaline cleaning is required is oxygen pipelines. These are usually found in hospitals and medical facilities, so these systems must remain extremely clean. It is also ideal for new systems and preventative maintenance.
Portable water systems: Disinfection allows for eliminating or inhibiting harmful microorganisms from systems where bacterial contamination is prevalent, such as water systems. You must often disinfect these systems to ensure they are safe before use.
Above are the most common systems or equipment where chemical cleaning is helpful. These are found in chemical companies, breweries, and companies belonging to biotechnological, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical companies. If you belong to these industries, don’t think twice about having them cleaned professionally to experience quality output.
Choose the Right Type of Chemical Cleaning for Your Facility
Every facility is fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology and equipment to facilitate its processes. It’s best to have your equipment chemically cleaned occasionally to ensure that this equipment is functioning correctly.
If you’re looking for a reliable service contractor, Cleansolis the number one go-to. If you have any questions about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’re ready to help you find the best solution to ensure your equipment and systems are free from dangerous contaminants.
We all know that industrial processes can be tricky—but what if I told you there was a process that could ensure your parts and components work reliably, as expected? That’s where steel passivation comes in. Industrial companies have been turning to this fantastic method of protecting stainless steel against corrosion and oxidation for years.
But what exactly is this method all about, how does it work, and why should you consider implementing it into your industrial plant operations? Learning all about this process and how it can benefit your business will allow you to utilize it to the best of your abilities.
What is Passivation?
Simply put, the passivation process happens when materials like stainless steel are protected from rust and corrosion. Its primary goal is to reduce the deterioration and decay of material by protecting it from its environmental reaction. The result is an increase in the material’s lifespan because its corrosion-resistant properties have been improved significantly.
Metal passivation is the most common process that many industries use, especially in facilities where products are exposed to harsh environments. The process is mainly used on stainless steel but can also be applied to other metals such as aluminum and nickel or nickel alloys.
The Process of Passivation for Stainless Steel
As mentioned above, stainless steel is the most common metal that undergoes this post-fabrication process. Even though stainless steel is already resistant to rust and corrosion because it is an iron alloy, long-term exposure to moisture, heat, and other substances can cause the steel to oxidize. This process is implemented to restore the stainless steel’s surface while improving its corrosion resistance performance.
The passivation of stainless steel uses nitric acid or citric acid to remove free iron from its surface. This chemical treatment creates a protective layer or a film, which makes the metal less likely to react with air. Therefore, corrosion is also avoided. It’s worth noting that today’s industry standards, ASTM A967 and AMS 2700, represent the widely used standards for passivated stainless steel.
The Different Types of Passivation
According to the industry standards for passivation stainless steel, there are three types of this process to choose from. Each type will depend on the chemical that’s going to be used.
The three types are as follows:
Citric acid
Nitric acid
Nitric acid with sodium dichromate
The type of stainless passivation used will depend on the specifications and requirements of the client. Since each has its benefits and drawbacks, it’s essential to know the purpose and application of the material before making a final decision.
Why Should You Passivate Stainless Steel?
This post-fabrication process is also used as cleaning passivation for the maintenance of stainless steel parts and components. But it’s also a post-fabrication method for newly-machined stainless steel equipment or surfaces.
Some benefits to take advantage of:
Extend the life of the product
Remove any contaminants from the metal’s surface
It provides a chemical film barrier to protect against rust
Reduces the need for future maintenance
Difference Between Derouging & Passivation
“Rouge” refers to the brownish stain in the pipes and tanks. It’s a corrosion product that can affect the various parts of a system. Cleaning the affected surfaces periodically can maintain good product quality. It’s also known for removing metal oxides and hydroxides from surfaces.
These two processes often go hand in hand since the standard practice is to passivate the surface, parts, or components to enhance its protection against corrosion. It’s why many industries prefer to use both processes together.
Protect Your Stainless Steel Equipment from Corrosion & Rust
Ensuring the protection of your equipment is a must in industries where corrosion and rust are predominant. If you’re looking for a reputable specialized cleaning service, Cleansol LLC offers derouging and stainless steel passivation for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and semiconductor industries. Contact us today to learn more about our other services as well!