When considering methods for industrial cleaning, Trichloroethylene (TCE) has historically been a go-to solvent for vapor degreasing. However, with growing concerns over health risks and environmental impact, many businesses are rethinking using TCE.
What Is Trichloroethylene?
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile, colorless solvent used in various industrial applications such as cleaning, degreasing, and chemical formulations. It has been a standard choice for vapor degreasing, which involves cleaning metal parts by exposing them to vaporized solvents to remove oils, grease, and other contaminants. TCE’s ability to dissolve oils, resins, and other contaminants makes it highly effective in cleaning precision parts. It is highly utilized in the aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries.
The Risks of Using TCE for Vapor Degreasing
Despite its effectiveness, TCE is highly toxic. Prolonged exposure can pose serious health risks. It is classified as a potential human carcinogen with links to kidney damage, liver toxicity, and neurological issues. TCE also harms the environment by contaminating soil and groundwater when not disposed of properly.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have set stringent guidelines for TCE handling, disposal, and air quality monitoring. This makes it increasingly difficult for manufacturers to use it without facing regulatory compliance challenges.
The Environmental Impact of TCE
Another pressing concern with TCE is its environmental impact. Because it is volatile, TCE can evaporate quickly into the atmosphere and contribute to air pollution. When released into water or soil, it poses a risk to ecosystems and water supplies.
Recently the EPA announced prohibitions for most uses of TCE within one year. However some uses of TCE will be phased out over a longer period of time such as cleaning parts in aerospace & medical device manufacturing, transportation, security and defense systems: https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca/risk-management-trichloroethylene-tce. Baron Blakeslee Carbon Adsorption Systems (https://www.baronblakeslee.net/vapor-degreasers/carbon-adsorption/) can be added to existing vapor degreasing systems to meet compliance objectives, provide high levels of solvent recovery and mitigate impact to operator and environment. Our Airless Vacuum Vapor Degreasers (https://www.baronblakeslee.net/airless-vacuum-vapor-degreasers/) offer the best available control technology and lowest TCE emissions technically possible.
Alternatives to TCE in Vapor Degreasing
Given the risks associated with TCE, businesses are increasingly turning to alternatives for vapor degreasing. Modern vapor degreaser systems now use a range of safer solvents that perform just as well—if not better—than TCE without the associated health and environmental risks.
One popular alternative is modified alcohols, which are safer for workers and the environment. These solvents are biodegradable and less toxic than TCE, making them ideal for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining effective cleaning capabilities. Additionally, halogen-free solvents offer a safer and more sustainable choice. These options are gaining popularity as industries move away from hazardous substances like TCE and toward more environmentally friendly solutions.
The Future of Vapor Degreasing Without TCE
As the shift from TCE continues, vapor degreasing technologies are evolving to meet stricter regulatory standards while maintaining cleaning performance. Airless hydrocarbon solvent cleaning systems are a great example of companies moving toward more sustainable cleaning methods. These systems eliminate the need for traditional solvents while maintaining high-efficiency performance in industrial cleaning applications.
Moreover, advances in fabrication services allow manufacturers to design systems that maximize safety and reduce waste. As new regulations are enforced and more businesses opt for safer solvents, vapor degreasing will likely continue evolving. The industry is on track to improve both environmental impact and worker safety while maintaining high standards of precision cleaning.
While Trichloroethylene (TCE) has been a staple in vapor degreasing for many years, its health and environmental risks make it a less attractive option today. With the development of safer, more sustainable alternatives, the industry is moving toward more eco-friendly solutions that deliver similar cleaning results. As vapor degreaser technology evolves, businesses must adapt to these changes to ensure compliance, improve safety, and reduce their environmental footprint.
Baron Blakeslee offers a range of modern cleaning systems that integrate environmentally friendly solvents to help businesses transition from harmful substances like TCE. Whether you are looking for vapor degreasers, contract manufacturing services, or customized solutions, our expertise can guide you toward the best cleaning options for your needs.
