Atotech Modern Cleaners: Pioneering Sustainable Industrial Cleaning Solutions

In today's industrial landscape, the need for sustainable cleaning solutions is more pressing than ever. This blog post delves into the advancements made by Atotech in the realm of industrial cleaning, particularly focusing on their modern cleaners that are shaping the future of sustainable practices in the industry.

Overview of the Webinar

The webinar, moderated by Katarina, featured Neil Patton, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience in chemical processes and technology. Neil provided insights into the evolution of cleaning solutions, particularly soak cleaners for metal substrates, and discussed the benefits of modernizing these processes.

Types of Cleaners

Neil outlined several types of cleaners, emphasizing immersion cleaners, which are the focus of the discussion. The main categories include:

• Emulsifying and Demulsifying Cleaners: These cleaners either mix with oils or separate them from surfaces.
• Electrolytic Cleaners: Utilize electrical currents to enhance cleaning.
• Spray Cleaners: Apply cleaning solutions through spraying.
• Ultrasonic Cleaners: Use high-frequency sound waves to agitate the cleaning solution, improving cleaning efficiency.

Composition of Soak Cleaners

Soak cleaners are primarily composed of three components:

1. Builders: Such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide, which enhance cleaning efficiency.
2. Surfactants: These reduce surface tension, allowing for better penetration and removal of contaminants.
3. Additives: Various chemicals that provide additional functionalities, such as chelating agents that bind to metals and prevent them from re-depositing.

Modernizing Cleaning Processes

Challenges with Traditional Cleaners

Traditional soak cleaners often operate at high temperatures, which can lead to increased energy consumption and a larger carbon footprint. Additionally, many older raw materials used in these cleaners are now restricted due to environmental concerns.

The Two-Component System

To address these challenges, Atotech has developed a two-component system:

• Builder Package (Uniclean B): Contains the alkaline components necessary for effective cleaning.
• Additive Package (Uniclean A): Comprises surfactants and other additives that enhance cleaning performance.

This system allows for greater flexibility in formulation, enabling users to adjust the cleaning solution based on specific applications while minimizing environmental impact.

Benefits of the New Process

The new ultra-low temperature cleaner operates effectively at 35°C, significantly reducing energy costs and CO2 emissions. Key benefits include:

• Improved Cleaning Efficiency: The new formulations have shown better performance in removing various types of oils compared to traditional cleaners.
• Longer Bath Lifetimes: By effectively degrading oils during operation, the need for frequent replacements is reduced, leading to lower operational costs.
• Environmental Sustainability: The formulations avoid harmful substances, aligning with modern environmental regulations and practices.

Testing and Benchmarking

Neil discussed various testing methods used to evaluate the effectiveness of the new cleaners, including:

• Gravimetric Testing: Measuring weight loss of contaminants before and after cleaning.
• Water Break Tests: Assessing the ability of water to spread on a surface, indicating cleanliness.
• Copper Immersion Tests: Evaluating the uniformity of copper deposition on cleaned parts.

These tests ensure that the new cleaners meet the stringent requirements of the metal finishing industry.

Conclusion

The advancements in Atotech's modern cleaners represent a significant step towards sustainable industrial cleaning. By focusing on lower operating temperatures, improved formulations, and environmentally friendly practices, Atotech is setting a new standard in the industry. The future of industrial cleaning is not only about efficiency but also about responsibility towards our environment.

Q&A Session Highlights

During the Q&A session, Neil addressed several questions, including:

• The flexibility of using the ultra-low temperature process at higher temperatures for specific applications.
• Methods for controlling and replenishing the cleaning bath.
• Compatibility of ultrasonic support with the new low-temperature cleaners.

In summary, Atotech's commitment to innovation in cleaning technology is paving the way for a more sustainable future in industrial cleaning practices.