Effective replacements for regulated ODS solvents

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Nov 7, 2000

With a ban on the general use of HCFC-solvents being implemented at the end of 2001, 3M is already marketing approved and effective alternatives.

With a ban on the general use of HCFC-solvents being implemented at the end of 2001, 3M is already marketing approved and effective alternatives.

3M Novec Engineered Fluids are high performance, non-flammable and low toxicity solvent alternatives for precision and electronics cleaning, vapour degreasing and include special formulations for inerting or use as deposition solvents.

Crucially, these are available now, in time to allow for the development and installation of replacement systems and processes to meet the regulatory deadlines.

On 29th September 2000, the European Communities published a Regulation* on ozone-depleting HCFCs, which exceeds the requirements of the Montreal Protocol in actions to protect the ozone layer.

From 1st January 2002 the use of HCFCs will be banned for all solvent uses, with the exception of precision cleaning of components in aerospace and aeronautics applications, where the prohibition will be later.

Taking reference to the USA precision cleaning ODS (ozone-depleting substances) phase-out, Novec Engineered Fluids have been registered as best viable in-kind substitutes by the EPA SNAP, under the Clean Air Act.

They are an advanced range of specialty solvent replacements which provide the optimum balance of performance, safety and environmental properties.

Novec Engineered Fluids are already gaining wide acclaim in manufacturing industry for providing excellent performance whilst offering an effective way of achieving regulatory compliance.

* European Commission Regulation (EC) No.

2037/2000 For the new regulation, go to: http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/en/oj/2000/l_24420000929en.html .

For further information on the 'Phase-out' of solvent usage, visit the European Commission Web Page: http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment .

See a press release dated 1st July 1998, "Europe ends the era of ozone depleting substances - ".