On December 17, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule banning all uses of trichloroethylene (TCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), citing detrimental health and environmental risks. The rule bans most uses of TCE within one year, and has left many searching for reliable alternatives, particularly for degreaser products that once relied on the popular chemical.
Techspray offers safer, high-performance Novec solvent replacements designed for industrial degreasing and precision cleaning. This article will cover the key considerations in selecting a 3M Novec replacement for TCE degreasers and highlight viable alternatives, like Techspray’s solutions.
Understanding 3M Novec and TCE Degreasers
3M Novec solvents were widely used for precision cleaning, vapor degreasing, and other industrial applications due to their non-flammability, low toxicity, and potent cleaning properties. Similarly, TCE was historically a go-to solvent for degreasing metal and plastic components, especially in aerospace, automotive, and electronics manufacturing. But, due to concerns over toxicity, ozone depletion, and long-term environmental impact, both TCE and 3M Novec products are being restricted.
The Challenges in Finding a Suitable Replacement
Selecting a replacement for 3M Novec and TCE degreasers involves several challenges:
- Performance: The alternative must provide comparable solvency power to effectively remove oils, greases, and contaminants.
- Safety & Compliance: Many solvents face scrutiny under EPA, OSHA, and REACH regulations, so any replacement must have low toxicity and environmental impact.
- Material Compatibility: A new solvent must work with metals, plastics, and sensitive components without causing corrosion, swelling, or residue buildup.
Key Factors to Look for in a 3M Novec Replacement
When searching for an alternative degreaser, consider the following qualities:
- Non-Flammability: Safety is a top priority, and non-flammable options lower workplace risks.
- Low Toxicity: The replacement should limit exposure risks and comply with all workplace safety standards
- Effective Cleaning Power: High solvency strength ensures thorough degreasing without requiring excessive dwell time.
- Fast Evaporation with Minimal Residue: A quick-drying solvent prevents streaking and decreases process time.
- Environmental Compliance: Look for options with low global warming potential (GWP) and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP).
Techspray’s Alternatives to 3M Novec Products
Techspray has developed high-performance solvent replacements for 3M Novec products that address environmental concerns while maintaining remarkable cleaning efficiency. Our alternatives are made for precision cleaning, vapor degreasing, and conformal coating removal, offering the ideal solution for industries that used to rely on Novec and TCE-based degreasers.
Some of Techspray’s recommended Novec replacements include:
- PWR-4™ Solvent Cleaners – A drop-in replacement for Novec solvents with strong cleaning power, fast evaporation, and no residue. It is non-flammable, highly effective, and designed to meet regulatory requirements.
- Precision-V™ Vapor Degreaser Solvents – Formulated to replace Novec solvents in vapor degreasing systems, these solvents offer high solvency strength while limiting environmental impact.
- G3® Contact Cleaners – Designed for safe electronics and precision equipment cleaning to provide an effective alternative to TCE and Novec-based cleaners.
Techspray’s solutions are engineered to be compatible with existing degreasing equipment. This lowers the need for expensive process changes and ensures compliance with wavering regulations.
Transitioning to a New Degreaser
Switching to a new degreaser requires a thorough assessment to guarantee it performs reliably and is compliant. Follow these steps:
- Test and Validate the Replacement: Conduct laboratory and field tests to confirm effectiveness on your materials and contaminants.
- Assess Equipment Compatibility: Some solvents require adjustments to vapor degreasers or cleaning processes.
- Train Employees on Safe Handling: Guarantee proper usage and that disposal practices align with safety regulations.
Moving Forward: Key Next Steps
With the phaseout of 3M Novec and regulatory pressures on TCE, businesses must proactively find alternative degreasers that perform well, promote safety, and are compliant with environmental standards. Techspray’s PWR-4™, Precision-V™, and G3® product lines offer dependable, high-performance alternatives that offer continued efficiency and compliance with modern laws and regulations.
For assistance in selecting the right Techspray solvent for your application, visit Techspray’s Novec Replacement Solutions or consult with an industrial cleaning expert.
