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What Is the Meaning of a Fluid Toxicity Rating, Like a PEL or TLV?

In general, the “toxicity” of a cleaning fluid is measured through the use of 8-hour “time-weighted average exposure limits” (AEL). Similar terms you might find on labels and SDS sheets include “Average Exposure Limits” (AEL), “Personal Exposure Limits” (PEL) and “Threshold Exposure Limits” (TEL). One special term is “Threshold Limit Values” (TLVs) which only are…

Can I Use nPB in My Cleaning System?

nPB is a strong, affordable, versatile, nonflammable industrial solvent. nPB is a great degreaser and defluxer. However, npB does have toxicity worries. nPB is banned in Europe as of July 2020 and other countries currently have nPB under scrutiny. In the 1990s when nPb was first introduced, the toxicity level for nPB (also known as “TLV”, “AEL” or “PEL”) was…

Which Precision Cleaning Fluid Is the Mildest?

Very gentle, mild cleaning often is required when (a) cleaning substrates made from delicate materials, or (b) when the contamination is light, or (c) when the principle contamination being removed is water. Milder solvents generally are noted as having a low Kb value, typically 20-40 or so (a high Kb value is 100+). Many mild solvents…

Are MicroCare Precision Cleaners Mil-Spec Approved?

No, the products are not “mil-spec approved” because old-style “military specifications” no longer are used. But that doesn’t mean the military, NATO, or military suppliers aren’t using the MicroCare solvents.The Evolution of Cleaning SpecificationsIn the old days, say the 1960s, when governments decided they needed a new jet, missile or submarine the military would define…

Are There Any Materials Compatibility Problems with MicroCare Solvents?

General, materials compatibility is not an issue with the MicroCare cleaners, but make no mistake — materials compatibility can be a complex question. In general, the higher the Kb value of the solvent, the more likely the material will have some compatibility issues.For example, Vertrel™ XF has almost no compatibility problems with any substrate. It has a very mild…

Are Vapor Degreasing Solvents Flammable?

MicroCare recommends nonflammable solvents, or cleaning fluids, to minimize costs and maximize worker safety. In general, most of the the MicroCare, Tergo and Chemours Vertrel and Opteon products all are nonflammable. The full line of precision cleaning choices can be reviewed on this web site.In terms of the hardware, most vapor degreasing systems are engineered for the use of…