Degreasers are specialised cleaning products designed to effectively remove stubborn grease, oil, and grime from various surfaces. They are essential tools in many industries, from mechanical maintenance to industrial cleaning.

How Do Degreasers Work?

Degreasers work by breaking down the chemical bonds that hold grease and oil together. This process allows the contaminants to be lifted from the surface and easily wiped away. Degreasers often contain solvents or surfactants that can penetrate deep into crevices and dissolve even the most stubborn dirt.

Different Degreasing Methods

While degreasers are powerful cleaning agents, the method of application can impact effectiveness. Here's a breakdown of common degreasing methods.

Manual Degreasing

Aerosol Spray: While TYGRIS doesn't offer a dedicated degreaser spray, you can use a generic aerosol spray bottle to apply their liquid degreasers.

Trigger Spray: Trigger spray bottles are common for water-based degreasers or isopropyl alcohol (IPA) but not suitable for aggressive solvent cleaners.

Presaturated Wipes & Swabs: For added convenience, pre-saturated wipes with mild solvents like isopropyl alcohol are available.

Automated Degreasing

Ultrasonic Cleaning: Uses sound waves to break apart grease and lift it off the part.

Vapor Degreasing: Parts are submerged in a boiling solvent with ultrasonics, then rinsed in solvent vapours. This method is for critical cleaning.

Batch Washer: Parts are either stationary in a rack or run on a conveyor, and the degreasing agent is sprayed over them.

Choosing the right degreasing method depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the parts, the severity of the contamination, and the desired level of automation.

How To Use Degreaser

Prepare the area: Ensure the area is well-ventilated and free of any open flames or sparks.

Apply the degreaser: Follow the instructions on the product label. Some degreasers may require pre-soaking or scrubbing.

Allow to soak: Give the degreaser time to work, especially for stubborn contaminants.

Rinse or wipe: Rinse the area thoroughly with water or wipe away the loosened contaminants with a clean cloth.

The Difference Between A Degreaser And A Cleaner

Degreasers and cleaners are both used for cleaning purposes, but they have distinct focuses. Degreasers are specialised for heavy-duty grease removal, while cleaners are more general-purpose products that can remove various types of dirt and contaminants.

Degreasers often contain surfactants and solvents that can break down and emulsify oily substances. They are commonly used on kitchen surfaces, ovens, grills, automotive parts, and industrial machinery. Cleaners, on the other hand, may contain surfactants, detergents, and abrasive agents. They are suitable for cleaning floors, countertops, bathrooms, and general household cleaning tasks.

When choosing between a degreaser and a cleaner, consider the surface type, the severity of the dirt, and any environmental concerns. By understanding the differences between these two types of cleaning products, you can select the most effective one for your specific needs.

When Should You Use Degreasers?

Degreasers are particularly effective for removing stubborn grease, oil, and grime from various surfaces. They are ideal for cleaning items such as ovens, grills, engines, wheels, undercarriages, heavy equipment, tools, production lines, and garage floors.

If you're dealing with a surface that has heavy grease or oil buildup, a degreaser is likely the best choice for effective cleaning. However, always consult the product label for specific recommendations and to ensure it's suitable for the surface you're cleaning.

industrial degreaser mechanics

How To Choose The Right Degreaser For Your Needs


When selecting a degreaser, consider the following factors:

 

Type of surface: Different degreasers are formulated for specific surfaces, such as metal, plastic, or rubber.


Severity of contamination: Choose a degreaser that is strong enough to remove the type of grease or oil you're dealing with.


Safety considerations: Ensure the degreaser is safe for use in your environment and that you follow all safety precautions.

Are Degreasers Flammable?

Many degreasers contain flammable solvents, making them highly combustible. It's essential to handle these products with extreme caution to prevent fires and accidents. Never use degreasers near open flames or sparks, and always use them in well-ventilated areas to minimise the buildup of flammable vapours. Store degreasers in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

Always consult the product label for specific flammability information and safety instructions. By following these guidelines, you can safely use degreasers without compromising your safety or the safety of others.

Are Degreasers Toxic?

Some degreasers may contain toxic chemicals, so it's crucial to handle them with care to protect your health. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to avoid skin contact and eye irritation. Avoid inhaling degreaser fumes by using the product in well-ventilated areas. If you accidentally ingest or inhale a degreaser, seek medical attention immediately.

How To Dispose Of Degreasers Safely

Proper disposal of degreasers is essential to protect the environment and prevent contamination. Never pour degreasers down the drain, as they can harm aquatic life and contaminate water sources. Instead, follow the local regulations for the disposal of hazardous materials.

Contact your local waste management facility or hazardous waste disposal centre to obtain specific guidelines for disposing of degreasers in your area. They may provide instructions on how to collect, store, and transport degreasers for safe disposal.

  • Brake & Clutch Cleaner
  • Electrical Degreaser
  • PROTEAN Instant Degreasing Cleaner
  • HydroTough100
  • Industrial Solvent Cleaner

TYGRIS Brake & Clutch Cleaner

TB6005

TYGRIS Brake and Clutch Cleaner effectively removes oil, grease, dirt and dust from brakes and clutches, helping to eliminate brake squeal and clutch slip caused by glazing and contamination. The Brake Cleaner 5l can also be used on many other surfaces as a powerful cleaning agent, but not on plastic or rubber components.

Benefits

Clear, fast evaporating liquid

Powerful cleaning and degreasing brake and clutch cleaner

Residue free to help eliminate brake squeal and clutch slip

brake cleaner

TYGRIS Electrical Degreaser

TB6305

Electrical degreasers are crucial for maintaining electrical equipment by removing contaminants which can cause malfunctions, reduce efficiency, and shorten equipment life. This rapid-acting degreaser specifically targets electrical equipment, leaving residue-free surfaces for optimal performance.

Benefits

Medium fast evaporation

Effective general degreaser for most surfaces

Safe to use on plastics

electrical degreaser

PROTEAN Instant Degreasing Cleaner

F906

PROTEAN Instant Degreaser is an NSF: D1 registered ready-to-use general cleaner suitable for use in around food processing area, though not intended for direct food contact. Both odourless and non-tainting, PROTEAN Instant Degreaser is tested to BS EN 1276 and kills bacteria fast and effectively.

Benefits

Super Powerful Water Displacement:Safe for use around food prep areas

Powerful degreasing action for cleanroom and food/drink enviroments

NSF D1 registered

food grade degreaser

TYGRIS HydroTough 100

TB2025

This solution tackles heavy fuel oil deposits, greases, bitumen, and even aged oil contamination. HydroTough 100 is recommended for use by local authorities, tar manufacturers, highway maintenance companies, industrial cleaners, amongst other applications!

Benefits

Outlasts conventional cleaners and degreasers

Totally safe to use and environmentally responsible

Acts as a bio-accelerator for complete breakdown of hydrocarbons

heavy duty degreaser

TYGRIS Industrial Solvent Cleaner

TB7005

TYGRIS Industrial Solvent Cleaner effectively removes oil, grease, dirt and dust from industrial machines and surfaces. This product can also be used on many other surfaces as a powerful cleaning agent, but not on plastic or rubber components.

Benefits

Superior cleaning power effectively cuts through tough oil, grease, dirt, and dust

Can be applied to a variety of surfaces, providing a deep clean and removing stubborn grime

The fast-drying solvent formulation minimises downtime, allowing for quick and efficient cleaning and maintenance

industrial solvent

What Are Degreasers?

Posted by Emily Garrioch | BSPOQ on 3rd Sep 2024

What Are Degreasers?

Degreasers are specialised cleaning products designed to effectively remove stubborn grease, oil, and grime from various surfaces. They are essential tools in many industries, from automotive maintenance to industrial cleaning.

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