Next-generation PFAS-Free solvent cleaners from EnviroTech Europe - Innovation driven by legislation

The Engineer | June 17, 2024

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"Vapour degreasing, with or with-out ultrasonics, is the oldest, simplest and most effective solvent degreasing and metal cleaning process used today. It has until recently been subject to little change since it was first invented in the early part of the last century. In the UK, Europe, United States and other advanced economies, increasingly stringent legislation has been put in place to control emissions of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), Global Warming Compounds, Ozone Depleting Compounds and those compounds associated with human health concerns such as PFAS chemicals.

This has led to new formulations being developed for solvent cleaners. The vapour cleaning process still gives the highest levels of economical cleaning with minimum energy usage, low footprint on the factory floor, safety for the operator, and high production rates, with low solvent usage and low environmental impact. With the new generation of sealed cleaning machines its future as the process of choice is assured. Recent regulations on the control of PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have resulted in the clamping down on solvents with a high GWP (Global Warming Potential).

Envirotech Europe supplies a next generation vapour degreasing solvent formulation called ProSolv®5408e, with zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than 1, making it safe for operators and kind on the environment. For anyone using solvents with high HFC / HFE such as the soon to be phased out 3M™ Novec™ range, we have direct replacements available."