System With
Fresh Solvent
Closed-cleaning
Machine
System With
Used Solvent
Return of Vapor
Continuous
Internal Recycling
Used Solvent
Figure 2
Basically, a closed-loop process uses sealed cleaning equipment technology in which
containers are connected via a hose with the closed-cleaning machine, allowing solvents
to be pumped automatically in and out of the machine in a closed loop. This limits vapor
emissions and prevents spills.
Figure 3
The system includes two double-walled containers—one supplying fresh solvent, the other
collecting used solvent for recycling.
How the Closed-loop Cleaning
Process Works
The closed-loop process uses sealed
cleaning equipment technology combined with a safe delivery and handling
system. The containers are connected
via a hose with the closed-cleaning machine, allowing solvents to be pumped
automatically in and out of the machine
in a closed loop (see Figure 2). This
method drastically limits vapor emissions and prevents spills and contact
with the solvent.
The system includes two different,
specially designed double-walled containers for the safe transport, storage,
and use of solvents. One is exclusively
designated for the supply of fresh solvent and the other for the collection of
used solvent for recycling (see Figure 3).
The outer steel box protects the
drum, preventing damage or spills.
The containers also have specially designed fittings and couplings to prevent
vapor emission during use and solvent
transfer.
The used solvent is collected in a
safety container system for professional recycling to close the loop, reducing
solvent consumption and thus waste.
Active solvent maintenance includes
on-site testing, lab analysis, and stabilization to enable manufacturers to benefit from the internal recycling within
the cleaning machine. This extends the
solvent life while maintaining high-quality cleaning results over a long period
of time.
Complies With Standards. The
closed-loop system helps manufacturers to meet regulatory requirements,
including the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants
(NESHAP) for air emissions; Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) for worker exposure; and the
Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA) and Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA) for spillage during
storage and handling.
green MANUFACTURER
November/December 2011
32
www.greenmanufacturer.net
