Solutions to Effectively Reduce Temperature of Multi-metal Cleaning
In today's dynamic industrial landscape, the escalating costs of electricity have spurred a critical need for low-energy solutions. This demand not only presents challenges for businesses but also creates opportunities for formulation innovators. Now, more than ever, the focus on developing solutions that deliver cost savings to end-users is imperative.
As environmental concerns mount, the impact of energy consumption on greenhouse gas emissions in manufacturing becomes increasingly clear. In response, countries and companies worldwide are setting ambitious targets to reduce CO2 emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. In this context, the emergence of low-temperature cleaners plays a significant role in promoting industry-wide sustainability efforts.
Let's explore how efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness intersect in industrial cleaning.
The Significance of Energy-efficient Processes in Metal Cleaning
Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Metal Cleaning?
Efficient energy use is crucial in metal cleaning processes. By optimizing resource utilization, these processes deliver effective cleaning outcomes while minimizing waste. Traditional methods, often reliant on high temperatures and aggressive chemicals, highlight the need for a shift toward more sustainable practices, offering substantial benefits for industries.
By optimizing cleaning processes at lower temperatures, significant cost savings and CO2 emission reductions can be achieved. For instance, a mere reduction in cleaning temperature from 60°C to 50°C can yield energy savings of up to 15% and carbon dioxide emission reductions ranging from 200 to 500 kilotons per annum.
Navigating Challenges in Low Temperature Cleaning Technologies
Advancements in Low Temperature Cleaning
While the pursuit of effective solutions operating at lower temperatures is commendable, it comes with challenges.. These include reduced emulsification power, increased foam levels, and lower solubility of surfactants in one-pack cleaners. These challenges become particularly pronounced when temperatures drop below 40°C or when pressure is involved.
Syensqo has historically paved the way with products that address some of these challenges:
Low Foaming Secondary Surfactants:
- Antarox© 2222
- Antarox© B12DF
Primary Surfactant (Low Foaming and Good Degreaser):
- Rhodoclean© EFC V2
- Antarox© BL 225
Hydrotrope:
Recognizing the limitations of existing formulations at lower temperatures and under pressure conditions, Syensqo undertook the challenge to innovate and develop solutions for such demanding scenarios, and so we introduced Addikleen™. This cutting-edge family of products represents not just an advancement but a strategic response to the complexities of low-temperature cleaning.
Maximizing Performance for Specific Operating Conditions
The Pivotal Role of Foam Management
The management of foam proves pivotal in the quest for eco-friendly metal cleaning. Excessive foam not only hampers cleaning efficiency but also presents significant challenges throughout the metal treatment process. In immersion baths, foam overflow can lead to solution loss and potential environmental hazards, while in spray systems, foam formation may cause defects in subsequent treatments by creating bubbles on the metal surface. Moreover, the presence of foam indicates that surfactants are stabilizing it, reducing their availability in the solution for cleaning purposes and diminishing the effectiveness of degreasing processes.
In industries focusing on sustainable metal treatment, managing foam-related issues is increasingly important. Using advanced surfactants that specifically reduce foam, especially in low-temperature conditions, is a key part of their strategy.
Solving the challenge of efficient degreasing without increasing dosage
Syensqo introduces Addikleen™ range of ingredients as a versatile dual-purpose solution. These materials provide exceptional cleaning performance across a wide range of lubricating oils and substrates, making it ideal for diverse industrial applications. Notably, Addikleen™ enables cleaning processes to operate at low temperatures while effectively controlling foam levels and optimizing chemical dosage, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient cleaning operation.
Each Addikleen™ of the range of ingredients is designed to meet requirements of specific operational conditions such as pH, temperature or cleaning method (spray, immersion…). Whether addressing the rapid demands of spray applications or the thoroughness essential for immersion processes, each ingredient within the Addikleen™ range is optimized in its designated environment.
As part of our commitment to environmental responsibility, Addikleen™ is biodegradable, silicon-free, and APE-free, underscoring our dedication to delivering solutions that prioritize both operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
We invite industries to not only adopt innovative solutions but to continue the dialogue on sustainable practices. The path forward involves a collective commitment to evolving technologies, embracing responsible choices, and fostering a harmonious coexistence between industrial processes and environmental stewardship. Together, we can forge a future where metal cleaning isn't just a necessity but a testament to responsible and sustainable industrial practices.
