Solvents - Metal Cleaning

[Frank]

This doesn't actually apply to pipemaking, but since there are a few knifemakers and machinists that haunt the forum, I might get an answer:

Until recently I used 1,1,1-Trichloroethane (Carbo-Trichlor) for degreasing metal. I preferred using it because it very effectively removed oil and grease, evaporated very quickly and left no residue, leaving the metal ready for gluing, soldering, etc. It really worked great for removing buffing compound from blades, etc. It has since been banned in California (possibly all USA).

Other than Acetone or Denatured Alcohol, does anyone perhaps know of a similar solvent that directly replaces Carbo-Trichlor?

[KurtHuhn]

Unfortunately I do not. Which is why I keep dirty great cans of acetone around.

[FredS]

I was going to recomend aerosol Brake Parts Cleaner (available from auto parts stores), but I just looked at a can to see what was in in and it says "Not for sale or use in CA". It's expensive, but it works great and dries quickly. Acetone is what I use when I have a lot of wiping to do.

[Frank]

Thanks guys. I guess acetone will have to do for now.

I sent these guys an email for more info on availability of their product: EnTron.

[Alan L]

Yup, trichlor is a no-no most places these days. For heavy grease I use mineral spirits to cut the goo, then acetone to remove the film the spirits left. Sometimes I'l use laquer thinner if I want a xylene-toluene buzz...

[KurtHuhn]

Oh man, lacquer thinner has been banned to the outside workshop after the last incident where I caught a buzz from it. I think I'm still missing those brain cells I dropped that time.