The environmental advantage of a single-isomer hydrofluoroether (HFE) comes primarily from how it is manufactured, not simply from having one isomer instead of two. Legacy dual-isomer HFE fluids such as 3M™ Novec™ 7100 and 7200 were produced using electrochemical fluorination (ECF), a process associated with the generation of long-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) byproducts […]
How do I validate cleanliness when using vapor degreasing solvents?
Cleanliness validation is essential in industries where performance and safety depend on residue-free parts. Here are the most common methods: Gravimetric Testing: Weighing parts before and after cleaning to measure the total nonvolatile residue (NVR) left behind. FTIR Analysis: Using infrared spectroscopy to detect organic residues at trace levels. Water Break Test: Ensuring no hydrophobic […]
How do I improve drying and solvent removal from parts with blind holes, threads, and capillaries in vapor degreasing?
Complex part geometries can trap solvent, leading to spotting, residues, or longer cycle times. To improve drying and ensure parts are ready for use, consider these adjustments: Part Orientation: Angle parts to encourage solvent drainage from blind holes, threads, or capillaries. Vertical orientation often allows vapors and condensate to escape more efficiently. Basket & Fixture […]
Are stabilizers required to be added to BestSolv® solvents?
No, stabilizers are not required with BestSolv® Engineered Fluids. This is one of their advantages over older solvents such as trichloroethylene (TCE), which often needed stabilizer boosters to prevent acid breakdown. BestSolv® Engineered Fluids are chemically stable, nonflammable, and water-free. Because they do not absorb or attract water, they resist acid formation under normal operating […]
My vapor degreasing solvent looks cloudy or discolored. Is it going acidic?
BestSolv® Engineered Fluids do not turn acidic on their own because they contain no water. If your solvent appears cloudy, discolored, or shows unusual behavior, it usually indicates that water or contaminants, such as particulates or metal shavings, are entering the vapor degreaser from an external source. Test the pH of the solvent Common Contamination […]
How can I reduce solvent loss and emissions in a vapor degreasing system?
Minimizing solvent consumption lowers operating costs and reduces environmental impact. Key strategies include: Modern Equipment Design: New vapor degreasers use secondary cooling coils, freeboard extensions, and sliding covers to capture vapors and cut solvent loss. Closed-Loop Recovery: Many systems are engineered for continuous solvent distillation and recycling, reducing waste and keeping emissions low. Optimized Loading […]
How do I choose the right vapor degreasing solvent for long-term supply?
Selecting a solvent is not just about performance today—it’s about ensuring reliability and supply continuity for years to come. Here are the key factors to consider: Supply Chain Stability: Many companies single-sourced their legacy 3M™ Novec™ fluids, creating major vulnerabilities when supply ended. BestSolv® fluids are dual-sourced, giving manufacturers consistent, reliable access to the solvents […]
What are the safety and regulatory considerations for using vapor degreasing solvents today?
Safety and compliance are top priorities when selecting a vapor degreasing solvent. Here are the key considerations: Worker Safety: Some legacy solvents, such as methylene chloride and trichloroethylene (TCE), carry significant health hazards and are subject to strict workplace exposure limits. Modern options like BestSolv® Engineered Fluids are nonflammable and designed with lower toxicity profiles […]
Which vapor degreasing solvents are suitable for plastics, elastomers, and sensitive materials?
While vapor degreasing solvents are compatible with metals, plastics and elastomers can react differently. Some may show changes such as surface stress, brittleness, or swelling, depending on the material. Because performance varies, it’s best to test any new solvent with your specific plastics and elastomers to confirm compatibility. Reach out today to one of our […]
What solvent options are available as replacements for banned or discontinued chemistries like 3M™ Novec™ or methylene chloride?
Manufacturers replacing 3M™ Novec™ or methylene chloride have three main options: Drop-in replacements – Engineered fluids that are molecularly identical to Novec™ solvents, allowing processes to continue with little or no revalidation. Similar molecule blends – Use a different molecule than 3M™ Novec™ but offer similar properties, at a lower price point. PFAS-free alternatives – […]
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