Cleaning and degreasing agents used for aero engine maintenance.
Cleaning
& Degreasing Agents for Aero engine Maintenance
|
Category |
Cleaning
Agent |
Composition |
Purpose
& Application |
Safety
Precautions |
|
Solvent Cleaners |
Acetone |
Organic solvent (C₃H₆O) |
Removes grease, adhesives, and sealants;
evaporates quickly. Used for surface prep before bonding. |
Highly flammable; avoid inhalation and skin
contact. |
|
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) |
C₃H₈O |
General degreasing and cleaning of
electrical components. |
Flammable; use in well-ventilated areas. |
|
|
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) |
Organic ketone solvent (C₄H₈O) |
Heavy-duty degreaser for paints, varnishes,
and resins. |
Toxic; requires gloves and proper
ventilation. |
|
|
Trichloroethylene (TCE) |
Chlorinated solvent |
Removes carbon deposits and heavy grease.
Banned in some countries due to toxicity. |
Carcinogenic; avoid prolonged exposure. |
|
|
Alkaline Cleaners |
Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda) |
NaOH, strong base |
Removes carbon, oil, and grease from engine
parts. |
Corrosive; can damage aluminum and magnesium
alloys. |
|
Potassium Hydroxide |
KOH, strong base |
Used for heavy-duty degreasing of steel and
nickel alloys. |
Causes burns; requires PPE (gloves,
goggles). |
|
|
Aqueous Detergents |
Surfactants, emulsifiers |
Mild cleaning for sensitive components like
compressor blades. |
Biodegradable but requires thorough rinsing. |
|
|
Water-based Cleaners |
MIL-PRF-87937 Type I & II |
Aqueous surfactant blend |
Aircraft-approved degreasers for oil, dirt,
and carbon removal. |
Non-toxic but may leave residues if not
rinsed. |
|
MIL-PRF-85570 Type V |
Phosphate-free aqueous cleaner |
Used for general exterior and engine bay
cleaning. |
Safe for aluminum; requires water rinsing. |
|
|
Acid-based Cleaners |
Phosphoric Acid |
H₃PO₄ |
Removes rust, oxidation, and light
corrosion. Used in pickling baths. |
Corrosive; avoid contact with skin and eyes. |
|
Chromic Acid |
H₂CrO₄ (Chromium-based) |
Passivation and corrosion removal from
stainless steel. |
Highly toxic; requires specialized handling. |
|
|
Specialty Cleaners |
Turco 6776 |
Blend of solvents & surfactants |
Heavy-duty carbon and grease removal in hot
tanks. |
Contains harmful fumes; use with exhaust
ventilation. |
|
Ardrox 185L |
Solvent-based cleaner |
Removes oils and carbon buildup from
aeroengine parts. |
Flammable; wear appropriate PPE. |
|
|
Naphtha-based Cleaners |
Petroleum distillate |
General-purpose degreaser for oil and fuel
residue. |
Can cause skin irritation; avoid prolonged
exposure. |
✅ Selection Criteria: Cleaning agents
are chosen based on engine material compatibility, environmental
regulations, and safety concerns.
✅ Application Methods: Common methods include immersion, brushing,
ultrasonic cleaning, and spraying.
✅ Post-Cleaning Rinse: Some cleaners require neutralization and
thorough rinsing to avoid residue build-up.
✅ Environmental Concerns: Many older solvent-based cleaners are restricted
due to VOC emissions and toxicity (e.g., TCE and Chromic Acid).
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