Aqueous Vs Solvent Degreasing
Essential to industrial cleaning, degreasing is the process for cleaning parts & components. The variety of methods within the degreasing industry means the chemicals and machinery can greatly differ.
Having recently looked into two of the most popular techniques, vapour degreasing with solvents and aqueous cleaning using water-based detergents, we know each method has strengths and weaknesses.
If you are unsure of the processes, before proceeding to read this article, visit our previous articles Vapour Degreasing Made Simple & An Introduction to Aqueous Component Degreasing.
Aqueous Degreasing
Seen as the more accessible technique, there is no shortage of options for water-based degreasing as many aspects of the process are completely variable to achieve the best result possible.
These can include the machines themselves as they start from 2-3 tanks with a range of cleaning solutions to go with them. Multistage machines will rinse and agitate the components in water solutions to target the soil and contamination on the parts. The finished process leaves the components cleaned and ready for drying.
Vapour Degreasing
The solvent alternative to aqueous degreasing, vapour degreasing heats solvent solutions in an enclosed tank with the components located above it the solution. The chemical vapours dissolve the soil & contaminates off the components.
Followed by a final rinse in the solvent, parts then dry out by themselves as the solvent has a low boiling point causing it to evaporate.
Pros & Cons of Each Technique
Aqueous Degreasing
Aqueous cleaning is cheaper when investing in a cleaning line as the machines don’t need to be sealed or enclosed. With the cleaning solutions considered operator safe, less PPC is required to be worn.
The variety of cleaning solutions available from detergents to emulsifiers allows users to adapt their cleaning processes to remove specific contaminants such as salts. Although with multiple solutions, the operators need to be cautious of cross contamination as some solutions may react with others or transfer the soils.
Heating multiple tanks of water solution to high temperatures required by many solutions can consume a lot of energy. Although, the higher temperatures are not always compatible with all materials such as softer metals as it causes cavitation to the surface.
Cleaning the tanks is relatively easy as the solutions can just be washed away but the maintenance can be a bit trickier. The natural properties of water being corrosive against metals mean it is critical to look after the machines as the solutions can deteriorate the tanks themselves.
The cleaning process itself cleans the components to a high quality but they are still wet afterwards. Drying the parts may include having to buy additional machinery or add stages to the cleaning line, adding more time to the process. Despite these additional measures, water streaks are still common.
Solvent Degreasing
With a lower surface tension, the cleaning of vapour degreasing is highly praised. After a cleaning cycle, the components are dry and streak free as the solvent evaporates away. Along with the fast acting chemical reaction of the cleaning process, the process can take as little as 10 minutes.
Solvents are very effective against most contaminants from oils to dirt (especially on metals), making the process very reliable.
Despite its cleaning qualities, the history of solvent degreasing has not always been positive. In the 1980s carcinogenic and environmentally damaging properties of the solvents came to light, resulting in strict limitations and legislation. Modern solvents and machinery have mitigated these concerns so solvent cleaning is widely used.
The cost of solvent can be expensive but as the method is a closed-loop process, the recycled liquid can go a long way; but it does have to be professionally disposed of when replaced.
For a direct comparison, below is a chart displaying some key factors to consider when buying a degreasing line.
| Aqueous | Solvent |
Average Process Time | 45-60 Minutes | 10 Minutes |
Standard Floorspace | 2-3 Tanks & More | 1-2 Tanks |
Average Heating Temperatures | 100˚C | 40˚C |
Surface Tension | Low | Very Low |
Require Drying | Yes | No |
Liquid Usage | 4500 litres/week | 4 litres/week |
Summary
Despite vapour degreasing seeming to be the better cleaning process for its quality of cleaning, the cost investment and legislation for solvent usage is critical to consider. We recommend for someone looking to invest in solvent cleaning always do their research as once you get it right, you’ll get it right every time.
As for aqueous cleaning, it became popular when the risks of solvents were realised and industries were looking for the next best alternative. It is recognised that the quality may not be as perfect as vapour degreasing but it still cleans to a very high standard. The cost & simplicity of the method makes it a lot more approachable for small to medium cleaning productions.
Overall, both methods are good for different reasons much like the components they clean. Vapour degreasing is most popular in the aerospace industry where the metal components need to meet the utmost precision. While aqueous cleaning has been strongly adopted by companies for small to medium cleaning production. Both have their own strengths and weaknesses which benefit different demands of cleaning.
As Rileys sells both the solvent and aqueous cleaning machines, if you are unsure which direction to invest in for a cleaning line call our team for advice at +44(0)1922 45 8000.
Kerry ( Guyson International ) Kerry Ultrasonic Compact 300A/4
This second-hand Guyson International Kerry 300A/4 multi stage Ultrasonics cleaning system offers a rapid and highly effective method of precision cleaning components to a very high standard.
- Stock No
- DA1397
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Kerry ( Guyson International ) compact 300A/4
- Year of Manufacture
- 1994
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 250 x 350 x 400
- Process Stages
- 4 Stage, 3 wet + hot air dry
- Other Info
- max temp 70°C wash and 100°C Dry
- Condition
- From a working environment
- Location
- Rolls Royce Stores Unit 6
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Firbimatic FD100VSS Totally Enclosed Solvent Cleaning Machine
Solvent based metal degreasing machine designed to be used with 'perchloroethylene'. Multiple wash options including ultrasonic, static, swivel or rotation of wash basket, pre-wash, wash, vapour clean and 2 rinse cycles. Complete with a self contained air cooled package chiller, TEA EVO 051. ** Approx. €95k NEW **
- Stock No
- DC1484
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Firbimatic FD100 VSS
- Year of Manufacture
- 2012
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 270 x 430 x 130
- Process Stages
- 6 Stages
- Other Info
- 50kg max capacity
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition, Current Model
ICI Special Cleanfast DLS E265V Enclosed Low Emission Solvent Degreasing Plant
ICI E265V Special vapour degreasing plant, carrier size of 900mm x 450mm x 550mm (H) offers a compliant solvent vapour phase cleaning cycle in a single operation. Complete with a unique ICI double lid sealing system, this immersion single-stage process tank can also be used with any wet process requiring fume extraction.
- Stock No
- DC1509
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- ICI E265V
- Year of Manufacture
- 1998
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Carrier - 1100 x 530 x 500
- Process Stages
- Single stage vapour degreaser
- Other Info
- Low consumption plant. 250Kg SWL
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Ransohoff Immersion / Dunk Washer
Compact yet powerful, this stainless steel Ransohoff immersion/dunk washer offers efficient component cleaning with a 740mm x 570mm x 200mm work area, electric solution heating and pneumatic agitation with speed control. Delivering fast, consistent results for a high quality cleaning operation.
- Stock No
- DE1592J
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Ransohoff 600 Litres Dunk Washer
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 740 x 570 x 200
- Process Stages
- Immersion & Agitation
- Other Info
- Max temp 65 °C, Oil Skimmer
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Guyson International Kerry Pulsatron CRD450 Cleaning & Drying System
The Kerry Pulsatron CRD wash, rinse and dry system is a precision cleaner that provides a heated ultrasonic cleaning tank, an immersion rinse weiring to drain, a hand held spray lance and a drying system.
- Stock No
- DE1598J
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Guyson International CRD 450
- Year of Manufacture
- 2009
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 325 x 450 x 300mm:Basket 250 x 390 x 150
- Process Stages
- U'sonic Wash, Rinse, Water Spray & Dry
- Other Info
- 40 Litre Capacity Each Tank
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Crest Ultrasonics Aqueous, Semi Automatic, Ultrasonic Cleaning System
A two stage, wash & rinse component cleaner with high powered ultrasonics, this Crest Ultrasonics line features heating & spray jets in each tank, steam extraction and in-line filtering. All housed in a stainless steel body.
- Stock No
- DE1600
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Crest Ultrasonics Aquatronic Low Line
- Year of Manufacture
- 2021
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Basket 380x275x200, Tanks 450x420x400mm
- Process Stages
- U/sonic/Agitate/Heat/Wash/Rinse/Dry
- Other Info
- HMI Controller and LHT Monitor
- Condition
- From a working environment, Excellent Condition, Current Model
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Kerry ( Guyson International ) Microsolve 250M 2 Stage Mono-Solvent Degreaser with AutoTrans SA
The Kerry Microsolve M250M Mono-Solvent vapour degreasing system manufactured by Guyson has three process stages comprising of cleaning, followed by vapour rinsing and freeboard drying. Offering the highest cleaning standards yet keeps running costs surprisingly low.
- Stock No
- DE1601
- Category
- Solvent Vapour Cleaning
- Model
- Kerry ( Guyson International ) Microsolve 250m With AutoTrans SA
- Year of Manufacture
- 1999
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 190 x 250 x 250 each Tank
- Process Stages
- 2Stage U/sonic Clean, Rinse & Vapour Dry
- Other Info
- Designed to use Petroferm/3M Solvating
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Optimal Technologies SinapTec 8 Universal & Digital, Ultrasonic Generator Bank
The Inside 1500 generator can be set to control piezoelectric transducers, which work within a frequency range from a few kilohertz to 120 kHz and with a power of up to 1500W. Two banks of 4 generators comes in a stand alone stainless steel cabinet. They are set up back to back with a door at each side. 4 generators in each side.
- Stock No
- DE1604
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Optimal Technologies 1500 Watt Ultrasonic Generator Bank (FCP 800-16)
- Year of Manufacture
- 2024
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Configured to drive 40 kHz Transducers
- Process Stages
- 2 off, Single Stage
- Other Info
- Frequency up to 120kHz
- Condition
- From a working environment, Excellent Condition, Current Model
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
MecWash Maxi 1000 Industrial Parts Washer
The Mecwash Maxi 1000 is a high performance industrial parts washer designed to deliver flexible aqueous ultrasonic cleaning & degreasing for demanding component cleaning. The cleaning system featuring ultrasonic washing, flood washing, rinsing, purgeair, hot air drying and vacuum drying.
- Stock No
- DF1612J
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- MecWash MAXI 1000
- Year of Manufacture
- 2011
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 600 x 1000 x 600mm
- Process Stages
- Multi Stage (See below in Options Box)
- Other Info
- Charge Weight 200kg
- Condition
- Seen working by RSW, Excellent Condition, Current Model
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Hilsonic Ultrasonic, Heated Cleaning Tank with Twin Sparge Jets
A single stage, ultrasonic wash component cleaner with high powered ultrasonics, this cleaning tank features heating, underwater spray jets (sparge) and in-line filtering. All housed in a stainless steel body, with digital heating and timer controls.
- Stock No
- DF1613J
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Hilsonic IST 3780
- Year of Manufacture
- 2014
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- 1200 x 500 x 1150mm (690 Litres)
- Process Stages
- Single Stage plus Sparge Jets
- Other Info
- 36 transducers 6 generators
- Condition
- From a working environment, Excellent Condition, Current Model
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Vixen Tristar Compact TW500 Continuous Component Washer
A compact continuous washer for gentle, high volume cleaning of delicate components such as precision machined components from CNC operations. Using an Archimedes screw design, the Tristar TW500 conveys parts through a stainless‑steel drum across immersion wash, spray wash, and hot‑air drying stages.
- Stock No
- DF1617
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Vixen TW 500
- Year of Manufacture
- 1997
- Work Envelope (WxDxH mm) [?]
- Ø500mm drum with Ø2mm holes
- Process Stages
- 2
- Other Info
- Continuous washing facility
- Condition
- From a working environment, Good Condition
- Refurbished Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
- Sold As Seen Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Wilden / Fuel Works XP25 Pneumatic Metered Barrel Pump
Wilden double diaphragm metered barrel pump which is ideally suited for use with the solvent transfer systeme "SAFE-TAINER"
Riley Ultrasonic Multistage Cleaning Range
The Riley Ultrasonic Cleaning and wash range is available in 2-5 stages with 60-240 litre tanks possible. Built from 304 Stainless Steel the quality is clear to see at an excellent price.
- Stock No
- NEW190
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- Riley Various
- Year of Manufacture
- NEW
- Process Stages
- 2, 3, 4, or 5 stages are available
- Other Info
- Ultrasonic, Heated, Multi Tank Cleaning
- Condition
- Brand New, Unused, Current Model
- Availability:
- Available subject to build time
- Price [?]
- Please call on +44 (0) 1922 45 8000
Sonikem Small DI System
A Mixed-bed deionising and ultraviolet sterilisation plant manufactured by Sonikem has multiple applications in water treatment systems and industrial processes where water quality is a key component.
- Stock No
- TD356
- Category
- Aqueous Ultrasonic Cleaning & Washing
- Model
- PW2 (Capacity: 200 litres)
- Year of Manufacture
- 2025
- Process Stages
- 2
- Other Info
- Flow Rate;200-650lph(max.)
- Condition
- Brand New
- Availability:
- Available subject to build time
- Price [?]
- £ Login or Register for price.
Machines & equipment for sale
- Surface Treatment
- Cleaning & Degreasing
- Polishing & Belt Linishing
- Mass Finishing
- Ovens & Furnaces
- Process Cooling
- Shot Blasting
- Dust & Fume Extraction
- Air Compressors
- Rectifiers & Transformers
- Miscellaneous
- Latest Stock
- Special Offers
- Direct From Site Clearances
- Auctions
- Brand New Machines
- Available Immediately
- Sell Your Machine
Machine Alert
Get the latest machines emailed directly to you as they become available to buy online. Sign Up Now
