A3 Solvent for Vacuum Machines

Solvents referred to as class A3 are degreasing solvents used in closed dry-cleaning machines. These solvents and machines are very commonly found in the fields of screw-cutting, stamping, machining, and polishing of metal parts produced at high throughput rates. These organic A3 solvents are generally hydrocarbon-based, modified alcohol-based (glycol derivatives), or mixed in nature. They share a flash point above 55°C, a narrow boiling range of 160–210°C, and the ability to be easily recycled and stable under regeneration conditions (hot vacuum distillation in the presence of contaminants from cleaning such as neat oils, cutting oils, lubricants, polishing pastes, etc.). These qualities ensure a relatively short cycle time and a very good regeneration yield without loss of purity or degreasing quality. These solvents gained prominence when regulations began restricting the use of chlorinated solvents such as trichloroethylene or perchloroethylene.

A3 solvents are used in compatible vacuum washing machines, notably for cleaning metals. These machines have replaced the perchloroethylene washing machines previously used. They allow large quantities of parts to be cleaned quickly in short cycles. Find our A3 solvents on this page.

Class AIII or A3 solvents encompass a family of products (modified alcohols, lactic acid-based products, and hydrocarbons). These degreasing products are an alternative to perchloroethylene in hermetically sealed degreasing machines. They allow known soils to be removed in rapid cleaning processes. Our products are compatible with all machines on the market.

A3 solvent is a substitute for trichloroethylene, but must be used under certain conditions. The use of trichloroethylene, a proven human carcinogen, is heavily regulated. Having been abandoned in many industrial sectors, attempts were made to replicate its characteristics: powerful degreasing, fast drying, and low flammability. A3 solvent (or modified alcohol) is the best solution developed. It meets the first two criteria, but carries a flammability risk. It is absolutely necessary to use it in a vacuum machine, in order to suppress its flash point. This type of machine, which operates in a closed circuit, allows for significant solvent savings. Contact us for personalized advice for your workshop.

All types of metal can be cleaned with an A3 solvent (modified alcohol), such as aluminum, steel, titanium, magnesium, gold, silver... This degreaser must be used in vacuum machines. It is found in the watchmaking, jewelry, and mechanical parts machining sectors. Contact us for any additional information.