Removing Ester Oil lubricants and Brass Particulates

Q. I’m doing electronic cleaning and I’d like to test a detergent sample for a project that requires a non-residue flushant for an aluminum gearbox with brass gears. During the burn-in phase, the gear box accumulates brass particles. After burn-in, this sealed gearbox is drained of the ester oil lubricant and flushed with solvent to assist in removal of the brass residue. The unit is then filled with fresh lubricant and shipped to the customer. We wish to replace the solvent to be in advance compliance with California VOC rules. The lubricant maker suggested a detergent as a flush. Does Alconox have a detergent that would be good for brass and aluminum, and simultaneously compatible with ester oil lubricants?

A. I recommend you try using a 2% Citranox (2.5 oz/gallon) solution to remove ester oil lubricants and brass particulates.  This is a No-VOC cleaner that is safe on brass and aluminum.  Flush with the Citranox solution, followed by a water rinse.  This is an aqueous detergent that needs to be rinsed away rather than a solvent detergent that evaporates.

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