Cleaner # 104 is a non-flammable, non-fuming or hydrochloric type cleaner used for removal of oil, grease, organic coatings and oxides from most metals. Cleaner # 104 can be used hot or cold and can be applied by dipping, brushing, swabbing or spraying. It contains inhibitors which make it safe for cleaning iron and steel and copper base alloys. It is also effective for cleaning and light etching zinc base die-castings and aluminum.

Cleaner # 104 has a phosphoric acid content of 50% by weight. This acid strength coupled with an effective blend of emulsifiers, solvents and penetrates making it an ideal single-step cleaner and deoxidizer for most metals. This material will effectively dissolve rust, however, it is not designed to remove heavy black oxide scales from steel. It leaves a light phosphate film on steel and zinc which is an excellent base for painting.

How to use Cleaner # 104.

Concentration:

This product is simply diluted in the radio of one volume of Cleaner # 104 to two volumes of water depending on the type of job to be done. For removal of heavy smut and rust or for fast etching of aluminum, a dilution of one volume of Cleaner # 104 and two volumes of water is recommended.

Temperature:

Cleaner # 104 solution should not be heated above 180 degrees F. because above this temperature, undue loss of solvents may occur. 150 degrees F. is a practical limitation for most of all applications. Aluminum can be etch clean from room temperature to 150 degrees F. Zinc is best cleaned at room temperature. Temperatures of 150 to 180 degrees F. are sometimes used for stripping of enamels or paints from steel or copper based alloys.

Operation:

Work which can be treated in a tank is simply immersed in the Cleaner # 104 solution for a period of time ranging from a few seconds to several minutes depending upon the degree of contamination. In most cases, the mixture can be used cold. However, cleaning and oxide removal will be facilitated if the solution is heated to temperature in the range of 130 º to 150º Fahrenheit. After treatment the work should be rinsed in clean running cold water, then in hot water and dried.

For application to large objects, such as tanks and cabinets, the diluted mixture at room temperature is applied by sponge, brush, or cloth whereby the surface is thoroughly wiped with the cleaning solution. In cases of severely rusted surfaces, several applications may be required. After this, the work should be thoroughly rinsed with water. It is important that the parts not be allowed to stand for more than a few minutes after brush application of the Cleaner to a metal surface before rinsing is done. Long standing before rinsing and after application of the cleaner may cause glassy like phosphate coatings to form.

Equipment:

Suitable containers are chemical stoneware and lead, plastic or rubber lined steel tanks. Stainless steel is usually satisfactory but pit corrosion may occur near welds. Heating coils should be made of lead, ventilation is recommended for the cleaning of aluminum and zinc base die-castings since there is an evolution of hydrogen gas causing an acid spray. There is only slight gassing when steel is cleaned and no gassing when copper base alloys are being treated.

Control:

The concentration of Cleaner # 104 solution can be controlled by treating with a sodium hydroxide solution standardized against a cleaner # 104 solution of known strength. Phenolphthalein should be used as an indicator.

Caution:

Cleaner # 104 contains phosphoric acid, therefore, the worker should protect his eyes and skin by means of goggles and protective clothing. In case of contact, flush skin or eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For the eyes, get immediate medical attention. Cleaner # 104 has no fire or flash point.

The information stated herein is based on information and tests we believe to be reliable. The accuracy or completeness thereof is not guaranteed. Since conditions of use are outside our control, user shall, before using, determine the suitability of the product for his intended use and user assumes all risk and liability in connection therewith.