Oxygen manufacturing industries CTC is being used for c leaning of nozzles, compressor casings and heat exchangers. During the process other parts such as the outer surface of the cylinders are also cleaned with CTC.

Oxygen can react with most materials and hydrocarbons trapped in an oxygen system can create a fuel that will cause an accidental fire or explosion. The higher the oxygen content and/or pressure in a system, the more vigorous the combustion and it can build up to explosive levels. Hence it is advisable to select only non-flammable solvents for cleaning oxygen systems. However, other parts such as the outer surface of the cylinders do not require solvent cleaning. They can be cleaned instead with water based detergents.

MDC is recommended by European standards due to its non-flammability and higher rate of evaporation. PCE may also be used provided proper flushing is carried out to remove all residues. Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a popular cleaning agent offering good efficacy but its use is strongly discouraged because of its inherent cancer risk.

HAZARDS TO CONSIDER

Every substance has limitations. While every solvent is toxic to a certain extent, the harmfulness varies from one substance to another. A given substance may be hazardous on skin contact, be a fire hazard, harm the environment and / or cause cancer (i.e. red category). Knowledge on the hazard ratings will help industries to take appropriate preventive measures and detailed information on hazards and control measures are provided in the TA.

FURTHER INFORMATION

A detailed technical document titled "Selection and Safe Use of Alternatives to CTC-Oxygen Systems" has been published and available for download.


Download the document here

Disclaimer Ü Though all care has been taken while researching and compiling the information presented above, GTZ Proklima accepts no liability for its accuracy. The reader is advised to confirm its correctness prior to use or purchase of any substance. Ü GTZ Proklima makes no claim in respect of the suitability of any substance as substitute for CTC in any specific industrial process. Suitability remains to be verified through trials with due consideration of health and safety aspects. Ü Information provided here does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any product by GTZ Proklima. While preference is given to non-proprietary products information on selected proprietary products may be included if they appear to have a better environment, health and safety performance or if they are already widely adopted by the industry.