brake cleaner

Types of Brake Cleaner

Brake Cleaner is a specialized cleaning product used to remove contaminants from brake components. It comes in various types, each designed to cater to different customer needs. Below are the types of brake cleaners:

• Chlorinated Brake Cleaners

• Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaners

• Water-Based Brake Cleaners

They are further broken down into several subtypes as explained below:

• Chlorinated Brake Cleaners

  They contain solvents such as perchloroethylene or trichloroethylene. These solvents are effective for removing oil, grease, and dirt from brake parts. They are also fast-evaporating and leave no residue on the brakes. In addition, they do not harm the electrical components of vehicles. However, they are not safe for the environment. They can cause damage to the ozone layer and have been linked to various health issues. For this reason, there is a decline in their usage.

• Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaners

  They are manufactured using solvents such as acetone, naphtha, or petroleum distillates. They are ideal for cleaning delicate brake components like brake pads and brake discs as they do not cause damage. They are also safe for the environment and have a lower toxicity level compared to chlorinated cleaners. In addition, they are versatile and can be used to clean a variety of other automotive parts.

• Water-Based Brake Cleaners

  They are manufactured using water as the main solvent. Additional components include biodegradable surfactants and other additives. They are designed to have low toxicity and are safer for users and the environment. They are ideal for removing light soils and are generally non-flammable. However, they are not suitable for heavy-duty cleaning. In addition, they have a longer drying time.

Specification and maintenance of brake cleaner

Before purchasing brake cleaners, it’s important to understand the specifications and maintenance practices for safety and efficiency purposes. Here are the two:

• Specification

  1. There are numerous types of brake cleaners on the market, and they all have different specifications. Depending on the operation and safety requirements, brake cleaner comes in various forms, including non-chlorinated, carbonized and automated. Each type has its own benefits.

  2. The content of the brake cleaner spray also has an effect. The cleaners can contain petroleum distillates, alcohols, ketones or hydrocarbons. Each component has a different cleaning property and effect. Hydrocarbon and alcohols are a mixture that has a strong and fast-drying property.

  3. When buying a brake cleaner, consider the strength of the spray. Different cleaners have different spray strengths, ranging from low to high. Spray strength affects cleaning efficiency, with high strength being more efficient.

  4. Brake cleaners also have different sizes and volumes, ranging from 200ml to 500ml and beyond. Larger volumes are more suitable for heavy-duty applications or frequent use.

  5. Brake cleaners have different drying times. Fast-drying cleaners are convenient as they minimize the need to wait before applying the next step or before driving.

• Maintenance

  1. Store the brake cleaner in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent fire hazards.

  2. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines during application to ensure safety and efficiency.

  3. Inspect regularly for leaks, damage or deterioration to ensure the integrity of the container and prevent accidents.

  4. Brake cleaners should only be used on recommended surfaces. Using it on other surfaces can cause damage.

  5. After use, dispose of the brake cleaner according to local regulations and recommendations. Do not throw it in the normal trash or pour it down the drain.

How to Choose

It’s important to choose the right brake cleaner for a given task. Here are some tips to help users select the most appropriate brake cleaner for their needs:

• Consider the type of brakes being cleaned. For most conventional brake pads and drums, a solvent-based cleaner is sufficient. However, for cleaner options like glycol ether or for brake parts that are particularly sensitive, a chlorinated cleaner is better.
• Non-chlorinated cleaners are the safest options. If there is any doubt about the type of material being cleaned, it is always safer to choose a non-chlorinated cleaner.
• As much as unscented brake cleaner has its drawbacks, it is not entirely devoid of advantages. If minimal residue is desired, look for a brake cleaner that is formulated to leave little to no residue. This is particularly important for critical brake components where any leftover cleaning agent could interfere with brake performance.
• Additionally, quick-drying cleaners are ideal for applications where time is of the essence and parts need to be reassembled quickly. However, if there is sufficient time to allow for complete evaporation, a cleaner that takes longer to dry may be more suitable.
• Make sure to always read labels and safety data sheets to understand the properties and precautions of the chosen cleaner. This ensures that users are well-informed and can use the product safely and effectively.
• Moreover, selecting a cleaner with a spray nozzle or straw attachment allows for targeted application, making it easier to reach tight spots and ensuring that brake parts are thoroughly cleaned.

How to DIY and Replace Brake Cleaner

Most brake cleaners come ready to use, so there are no complicated preparations needed. Users should read the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure they use the product safely and effectively. Here are some general steps for using brake cleaners:

• Preparation

  Before using a brake cleaner, it is important to prepare and take safety measures. First, users should work in a well-ventilated area. This helps to reduce the concentration of brake cleaner fumes in the air. They should also remove any jewelry before using brake cleaner because it can cause skin irritation. Finally, they should wear safety glasses to protect their eyes from splashes or debris.

• Application

  Before applying the brake cleaner, users should inspect the brakes and identify any areas with oil or dirt deposits. When spraying, they should hold the can at least six inches away from the brake surface. This prevents damage to the brake components. Additionally, they should spray the cleaner in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling toxic fumes.

• After Use

  After using a brake cleaner, users should dispose of the used rags and any other contaminated materials as per local regulations. This ensures safety and environmental protection. Also, they should wash their hands thoroughly after using the brake cleaner to prevent skin exposure. Finally, users should store the cleaner in a cool, dry place away from heat sources or open flames to prevent fire hazards.

Q and A

Q1: Can someone use brake cleaner on plastic?

A1: No, it is not advisable to use brake cleaner on plastic. The majority of brake cleaners have strong chemicals that can damage or degrade plastic materials. If there is a need to clean brakes on a vehicle with plastic components, it is better to use a solvent brake cleaner that is safe for such materials.

Q2: How often should someone use a brake cleaner on a vehicle?

A2: There are no set rules on how often to use a brake cleaner on a vehicle. This is because, generally, vehicles should only be cleaned occasionally or when there is visible dirt or debris. However, for cars with frequent use of brakes in dirty environments, it might be necessary to inspect and clean them more often.

Q3: Is it safe to use a brake cleaner indoors?

A3: Using a brake cleaner is safe, but taking precautions is necessary. Due to its high flammability and potential health effects, it should be used in well-ventilated places away from sources of ignition. Users should also take protective measures, such as using gloves and an appropriate mask, to reduce exposure to their fumes and skin.