What Does
Alkaline Cleaner Mean?
Alkaline cleaner refers to cleaning agents that contain highly potent bases such as potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide. This type of cleaner can dissolve fats, oils, grease and other deposits that are protein based.
Most of the time, dispersing agents are also added to put off re-deposition of chelants or dissolved dirt that can attack metal parts, resulting in rusting on metal parts.
Corrosionpedia Explains Alkaline Cleaner
Successful metal cleaning can be achieved through alkaline cleaners. Alkaline salts, which are usually phosphates, silicates and caustic, along with a stable amount of active agents in its surface, makes a highly effective metal cleaner. Compared to other cleaners, it is considered to be one of the best and the least expensive, in terms of automated cleaning. It is highly effective in removing moist soils when sprayed on the material or dissolved in warm water.
These cleaners work through different principles, such as:
- Saponication – Oils, fatty acids and lards are removed from compounds by converting them into water-soluble compounds.
- Action of solvent – This allows alkaline cleaners to break up the oils on the surface of metals.
- Emulsification – This involves oil particles’ suspension to allow easy rinsing.
- Detergency – This involves the action of active wetting agents on the surface to decrease the tension in the oil surface, which promotes better penetration and displacement of soil from metals.
While alkaline cleaners are considered very effective in removing dirt, industries must select the right type and use proper amounts to guarantee effectiveness.