Guide 109 Industrial Cleaning

Industrial Degreasing Quick Guide

Match the soil to the chemistry (alkaline / solvent / emulsifier / neutral), confirm materials compatibility, and set the dwell + rinse method.

degreasing cleaning alkaline solvent

1) Identify the soil

  • Oils/grease: mineral, synthetic, animal/vegetable, heavy tacky greases.
  • Carbon/burnt-on: requires stronger alkalinity or specialized blends.
  • Particles: often needs surfactants + agitation + filtration.

2) Choose a chemistry family

  • Alkaline aqueous: best general degreasing; needs compatibility with aluminum/zinc and sensitive coatings.
  • Solvent / semi-aqueous: for heavy oils or when water is limited; manage VOC and material compatibility.
  • Neutral / mildly alkaline: for sensitive metals or coatings, often with longer dwell/agitation.

3) Set the process

  • Dilution, temperature, and dwell time (start conservative).
  • Agitation: spray, brush, ultrasonic, circulation, or parts washer.
  • Rinse criteria: water quality and how you’ll verify no residue.

4) Safety & documentation

  • SDS review, PPE, ventilation, and waste handling.
  • COA parameters for repeat buys (pH, actives, appearance).