1.Why is it not recommended to use gasoline?
Extremely High Safety Risks (The Most Deadly Problem)
Flammable and Explosive: Gasoline has an extremely low flash point (approximately -43°C), meaning it releases a large amount of flammable vapors at room temperature. Even a tiny spark, static electricity, or high-temperature heat source can ignite a violent fire or even an explosion. In factory or workshop environments where electrical equipment, welding, and cutting are common, using gasoline is tantamount to creating a potential bomb.
Health Hazards
Toxic Vapors: Gasoline vapors contain harmful substances such as benzene. Long-term or excessive inhalation can damage the nervous, respiratory, and hematopoietic systems, causing dizziness, nausea, and even chronic poisoning.
2.What are the potential damages to galvanized coils?
Zinc coating contamination: Gasoline is not a high-purity solvent and may contain impurities such as sulfides. These impurities remain on the surface of the galvanized coil and may react with zinc in humid environments, promoting corrosion or forming stains.
Damage to subsequent coatings: If the cleaned galvanized coil requires secondary processing such as spraying, gasoline residue will severely damage the adhesion of the paint film, leading to quality problems such as paint peeling and blistering.
Surface cleanliness cannot be guaranteed: After gasoline evaporates, solid particles from the oil stains may still remain on the surface. Simply dissolving and spreading the grease does not achieve true "cleaning."
3.How to clean with specialized industrial cleaning agents/degreasers?
Alkaline degreasers: Specifically designed for metal cleaning, they thoroughly remove grease through saponification and emulsification.
Water-based cleaners: Environmentally friendly and safe, non-flammable, and can be used with ultrasonic or spray equipment for excellent results.
Chlorinated hydrocarbon or alcohol solvents: Such as trichloroethylene and isopropanol, but these require well-ventilated and protected conditions for use.
Operating methods: Wipe with a cloth dampened with an appropriate amount of cleaner, or use spraying or soaking methods, then wipe dry with a clean cloth or rinse with water and dry (if using a water-based type).
4.How to use general-purpose organic solvents?
Acetone: Strong dissolving power for greases, evaporates quickly, leaving no residue. However, it is also flammable and should be used in a well-ventilated area, away from fire.
Isopropanol (IPA): Good dissolving power, safer than gasoline and acetone, and a commonly used solvent for cleaning electronics and metals.
Specialty solvent oils/white spirits: These products are refined, have fewer impurities, controllable volatility, and are safer than gasoline.
5.What are some recommended cleaning steps?
Test Cleaning: First, test the cleaning agent on a small, inconspicuous area of the galvanized coil to ensure it does not damage or discolor the zinc coating.
Ventilation: Ensure the work area is well-ventilated.
Protection: Wear appropriate protective gloves and goggles.
Wiping: Use a clean non-woven or cotton cloth dampened with a suitable amount of cleaning agent to wipe the surface.
Drying: Immediately wipe the surface dry with another clean, dry cloth to prevent watermarks or recontamination.
Inspection: Check that the surface is completely clean, free of oil and cleaning agent residue.