Relay maker chooses 3M to replace CFC cleaner

When Releco, a manufacturer of sophisticated industrial relays in Spain, decided to replace its CFC-based cleaning processes, it chose a new system using 3M Novec HFE Fluids

When Releco, a manufacturer of sophisticated industrial relays in Spain, decided to replace its CFC-based cleaning processes, it chose a new system using 3M Novec HFE Fluids, after discovering that this advanced solution actually offers superior performance to that of the ozone depleting CFC cleaning agents it replaces.

Final cleaning is a critical process in the manufacture of relays, to maintain quality and operational reliability.

For many years CFCs were considered the most effective cleaning agents and it was environmental issues and worker safety concerns that led Releco to search for an effective alternative.

The Company evaluated a variety of different cleaning methods including detergent washes and high temperature drying but these were too harsh for the relay's bronze plating.

Releco then approached 3M, which has developed a family of precision cleaning products for companies looking to replace CFCs in their processes.

3M Technical Support and Promosol, the local distributor, worked closely with Tecnoclean, the equipment manufacturer, conducting tests using Novec-711PA Fluids to deliver the optimum cleaning process for Releco.

Releco's Assistant General Manager, Jos? Luis Rodr¡guez confirmed that: "The standard of cleaning exceeded our expectations and surpassed the results obtained from the former CFC-based processes.

Novec HFE fluids fulfil our overall requirements perfectly, improving the entire production process.

They give us better cleaning results and are significantly less harmful toward the product, the environment and our employees".

The new cleaning techniques, using Tecnoclean equipment, and the fast-drying properties of Novec HFE-711PA also reduce the amount of cleaning agent consumed.

Releco's system consists of two baths, one for cleaning and one for rinsing.

A drying area briefly holds the cleaned products in baskets to allow the liquid to evaporate and condense in the cooling coils surrounding the baths.

The adoption of this new cleaning system has contributed greatly toward Releco's commitment to environmental improvement and safety.

The Company's practices comply fully with the risk prevention requirements of standard ISO 14001.

3M has developed a broad range of precision cleaning products as effective replacements for CFCs and HCFCs.

Designed for specialised industrial and manufacturing processes, across many varied industries, the full range offers optimal performance, while being safer and having significantly less environmental impact than the products they are designed to replace.

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