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corrosion need to be removed from the surface of parts. Proper selection of equipment is required with acidic chemistry. Neutral cleaners typically rely on higher levels of surfactants or water soluble solvents to provide suffi- cient detergency. These formulations offer the benefit of greater worker acceptance and environmental favorability, but can be prone to biological degradation. The four key parameters of any aqueous cleaning program are captured in the term TACT: time, action, concentration and tempera- ture. These are the four essential factors that must be controlled to ensure success. If any one of these parameters is compromised, for example when the time of the parts in the washer is reduced to increase throughput, one or all of the other three factors must be reviewed and adjusted to maintain a consistent cleanliness level. Of the four TACT components, shops should focus most deeply on the "action" of their washer programs. Mechanical action will greatly aid the cleaning process, meaning effective spray impinge- ment in spray washers (including nozzle design and alignment), agitation in immersion programs, and effective ultrasonic action. Regardless of the type of washer, the mechanical action should always be optimized. This is essential when more challenging soils are present. Cleanliness is required in an aqueous program. While visual inspection is helpful, a test that generates a recordable data point is reassuring from a quality perspective. Make sure cleanli- ness tests are performed in a reproducible manner, ideally by the same technician, for valid results. Carbon analyzers, contact angle and residue tests, such as Millipore testing, can be effec- tive. Simple practices like checking for a water-break-free surface Aged coolant or stamping fluids remaining on machined parts for extended time are more difficult to remove, and the potential for corrosion is high. • Vacuum Technology For Ultra-Low Emissions • Consistent & Repeatable Cleaning • Precision & Industrial Cleaning Applications • Multi-Solvent Capabilities • Small To Large Cleaning Chambers • Standard & Custom Models • Inexpensive To Operate & Easy To Maintain • Minimal Environmental Impact • Operator Friendly • Programmable & Flexible Cleaning Cycles • EPA/SCAQMD Approved • Ask Us About Our Contract Cleaning Services • Built, Supported & Serviced In The USA! Airless Tm Vacuum Solvent Cleaning 342 Compass Circle Unit A2, North Kingstown RI 02852 401-667-7370 http://www.serec-corp.com sales@serec-corp.com C O R P O R A T I O N Precision & industrial cleaning systems 34 NOVEMBER 2015 — pfonline.com PARTS CLEANING