Clean Source, a BFK Solutions LLC Newsletter
Volume IX, Issue 2
March/April 2012
In this issue:
• Feature article, “Measure Twice, Clean Once,” cuts to the core of the benefits of planning a cleaning process.
• Regulatory Update—Progress: Solvent Degreasing Model Rule
• Publications, Presentations, Conferences
“On the Surface,” a new column for Metal Finishing Magazine
BFK Solutions at SUR/FIN 2012
Handbook for Critical Cleaning, Second Edition—book review
Barbara Kanegsberg (the Cleaning Lady) and Ed Kanegsberg (the Rocket Scientist) of BFK Solutions LLC are the leaders in critical cleaning consulting. Since 1994, we have helped manufacturers grow their business through better critical cleaning processes, superior manufacturing, and higher productivity. Clean Source is a practical resource for our clients, colleagues and the manufacturing community.
FEATURE ARTICLE
Measure Twice, Clean Once
Barbara Kanegsberg, BFK Solutions
•Do you need a different brand or type of cleaning system? Or maybe a new cleaning process?
•Should you refurbish used cleaning equipment?
•Should you trust vendor claims?
•Should you get help with your process?
As a late-night television aficionado, I really empathize with a series of commercials that go something like this:
Insurance agent: “Have you driven your car up a telephone pole again?”
Sheepish answer, as the screen flashes on the remains of a car that has melded with a house: “No … but can you help me?”
Reply: Gee, I’d like to, but you dropped your insurance with us and went with something cheaper.”
Sheepish answer: “It only took 15 minutes to change the policy, but it’s taking a lot longer to hear from the other insurance agent.”
I empathize with these commercials, because we run into too many manufacturers who buy “bargain” cleaning equipment or spend a very little time planning their cleaning process. Then, disaster strikes; and we get a panicked phone call. While we’re always happy to hear from our clients, we are happiest when we get to help you design a great cleaning process from the start. Here are a few ideas to help avoid ineffective cleaning and costly mistakes.
REGULATORY UPDATE
OTC Model Rule for Solvent Degreasing—Positive Progress
Ed Kanegsberg, BFK Solutions
We all need regulations that protect workers, the community or the environment. At the same time, manufacturers must have effective cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes to make quality, competitive product. Readers of Clean Source will be pleased to hear about positive progress in developing a sensible, reasonable model rule that covers both vapor degreasing and cold cleaning (e.g. cleaning in dip tanks and in-line systems).
The mission of BFK Solutions is to foster a technologically and economically strong manufacturing base, one that does not compromise worker safety and environmental protection. Therefore, as readers may recall, for over a year, we have been following and commenting on the efforts of the Ozone Transport Commission (OTC) to develop a revised “Model Rule for Solvent Degreasing” for the northeast states of the US. Significant portions of a Southern California rule had been copied into the OTC Model Rule. In our experience, the Southern California rules place a heavy burden on local manufacturing.
To help the manufacturing community, we have provided the OTC with extensive technical findings and observations. Our efforts inspired others to comment. The OTC not only reached out to the regulated community, they listened.
Positive changes in the proposed rule will provide practical options for manufacturers, especially in vapor degreasing and in cold cleaning of electronic assemblies [See Clean Source archives for March 2011 and October 2011].
We are convinced that other critical segments of manufacturing could also benefit from the 150 g/l VOC limit (6x the initially proposed limit) allowed for circuit board assemblers. In fact, the International Thermal Spray Association (ITSA) recently requested a similar 150 g/l VOC limit for cleaning prior to thermal spray or application of other engineered coatings.
There is still a little time left for other interested groups to get involved. The updated version of the Model Rule is being presented for Stakeholder comment at a Stationary and Area Source, Modeling, and Mobile Source Committee meeting in Washington DC on March 21, 2012. Our understanding is that additional written statements may be accepted until April 9, 2012. It is expected that this will be the final round before the rule is submitted for adoption.
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
“On the Surface”
“On the Surface,” a new column, authored by Barbara and Ed Kanegsberg, of BFK Solutions, is now in Metal Finishing Magazine. The articles will highlight how strategic planning and actually doing something about cleaning processes increases your competitiveness and profitability. Look for our first column, “Intended Consequences” in the April issue. The web version has already been posted.
BFK Solutions at SUR/FIN
SUR/FIN, the largest conference and trade show for surface finishers, moves to the glitzy city of Las Vegas this year. BFK Solutions will help attendees increase their odds at winning in manufacturing by presenting “How Clean is it? Rapid, Low-Cost Tests You Can Do.” We will present a number of techniques, including evaluations of a newly developed, contact angle measurement technique using nothing more sophisticated than a digital camera such as those on most mobile phones. Our presentation will be in Session 6, Tuesday, June 12, 2012. Details on the SUR/FIN event can be accessed here.
Book Review: Handbook for Critical Cleaning, Second Edition
We were pleasantly surprised to see a comprehensive review that summarizes what we wanted to accomplish, probably better than we could ourselves. The evaluation, by Dr. Darren Williams, is featured in the latest issue of Controlled Environments. Darren is that rare combination of academician and pragmatist who understands what it takes to manufacture products successfully and competitively.
Readers of Clean Source can obtain a 20% discount for the expanded two volume second edition . Contact us by using the form on our website and we will send you the discount code.
HOW BFK Solutions Helps You
We’re independent. We don’t sell chemicals or cleaning equipment; and we don’t take commissions. Instead, we work for you. This saves you cold hard cash. We use our 30 years of experience to help you make good decisions about your cleaning processes, your manufacturing processes, your business. Check our website; send us an email; give us a call. We always like to hear from you.
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