A3 Solvent for Vacuum Machines

Closed machines are metal washing machines. They are particularly common in the fields of screw machining and mechanical parts production: watchmaking, the automotive industry, aeronautics... These machines offer the advantage of effectively degreasing mechanical parts in a relatively short time, thereby maintaining high production rates.

Arcane Industries has developed a complete range of solvents to replace trichloroethylene, dichloromethane (methylene chloride), and perchloroethylene: the historically dominant solvents in this field. These next-generation products offer similar or superior degreasing quality while being non-toxic, unlike chlorinated solvents. The Arcane product ranges are compatible with all washing machines on the market. We guide you in choosing the right substitute solvent and the necessary equipment.

Also browse our range of products for ultrasonic tanks.

Frequently asked questions about A3 Solvents

What is an A3 solvent?

So-called Class A3 solvents are degreasing solvents used in closed dry-cleaning machines. These solvents and machines are very commonly found in the fields of screw machining, stamping, machining, and polishing of metal parts produced at high throughput rates. These organic A3 solvents are generally hydrocarbon-based, modified alcohols (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 guarantee 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 to restrict the use of chlorinated solvents such as trichloroethylene or perchloroethylene.

In what type of machine can Solvent A3 be used?

A3 solvents are used in compatible vacuum washing machines, particularly for cleaning metals. These machines 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.

What is the difference between A3 solvent for vacuum machines and modified alcohol?

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 hermetic degreasing machines. They eliminate known contaminants in rapid cleaning processes. Our products are compatible with all machines on the market.

Can Solvent A3 replace trichloroethylene?

Solvent A3 is a substitute for trichloroethylene, but must be used under certain conditions. The use of trichloroethylene, a proven human carcinogen, is heavily regulated. Abandoned in many industrial sectors, attempts have been made to reproduce its characteristics: powerful degreasing, fast drying, and low flammability. Solvent A3 (or modified alcohol) is the best solution developed. It meets the first two criteria, but is a product with 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.

What materials can be cleaned with Solvent A3 (trichloroethylene substitute)?

Any type of metal can be cleaned with Solvent A3 (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 further information.