Cleaning (Cont) - TM-38-2600020

TM 38-260

(1)

Requirements. In the absence of a specification or direct instructions, the selection of a cleaning process

becomes optional with operating personnel. Care must be taken so that the cleaning process selected will not damage

the mechanism, structure, or function of the equipment. The choice of a cleaning process will depend on the following:

(a) Material composition.

(b) Nature of the equipment's surface.

(d) Nature of contaminants to be removed.

(e) The portion or area of the equipment requiring cleaning.

(f) The degree of contamination.

(g) Availability of cleaning materials and equipment, and hazards involved.

WARNING

APPROPRIATE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS MUST BE TAKEN TO PROTECT PERSONNEL FROM

CLEANING MATERIALS THAT MAY PRESENT FIRE HAZARDS, CAUSE SKIN IRRITATION, OR

HAVE TOXIC EFFECTS WHEN INHALED. USE CLEANING MATERIALS IN A WELL VENTILATED

AREA. THE USE OF GASOLINE AND CARBON TETRACHLORIDE IS PROHIBITED.

(2) Type of contaminants. Contaminants generally associated with IPE vary according to their composition, and

the degree of difficulty they present in their removal. The contaminants may be classified as follows (see fig 2-1).

(a) Oily contaminants such as oils, grease, cooling compounds, and oily or greasy factory residue.

(b) Water soluble contaminants, such as perspiration, factory markings, and any contaminants which will dissolve

in water.

2-3