Revolutionizing Surface Treatment: Sustainable Cleaners and Descalers for the Industry

Mr. Sumeet Saxena from MKS Autotech India discusses the importance of sustainable cleaning methods in the surface treatment industry. He emphasizes that cleaning is foundational for successful coatings and introduces innovative products like UniPrep and AC that operate at room temperature, extend bath life, and reduce environmental impact. The presentation highlights the shift from conventional to sustainable practices, showcasing case studies that demonstrate significant improvements in safety

In the surface finishing industry, cleaning is not merely the first step; it is the foundation for achieving successful coatings. Mr. Sumeet Saxena, Product Marketing Manager at MKS Autotech India, emphasizes the critical role of modern cleaners and descalers in enhancing surface treatment processes. This blog post delves into the insights shared during his presentation at the Surface Coating Expo 2025, focusing on sustainable cleaning methods that can transform cleaning from a cost center into a profit center.

The Importance of Cleaning in Surface Treatment

Cleaning is essential for ensuring that the surface beneath any coating is free from contaminants. A world-class coating applied to a dirty surface can lead to severe consequences, including:

• Increased rejection rates
• Rework and waste of resources
• Loss of trust in quality and consistency

These issues highlight the need for a robust cleaning process that not only performs well but also aligns with sustainable practices.

Conventional vs. Sustainable Cleaning Processes

Limitations of Conventional Cleaners

Conventional degreasers may effectively clean surfaces, but they come with significant drawbacks:

• High Energy Consumption: Operated at elevated temperatures, leading to a substantial carbon footprint.
• Restricted Substances: Many conventional cleaners rely on substances that are increasingly restricted in modern markets.
• Short Bath Life: The efficiency of conventional cleaners diminishes over time, resulting in frequent bath makeups and inconsistencies in cleaning results.

The Case for Sustainable Cleaners

MKS Auto Tech advocates for a shift towards sustainable cleaning solutions that operate at room temperature and offer longer bath life. This transition not only reduces energy consumption but also minimizes environmental impact. The two key pillars of this sustainable approach are:

• Long Life: Sustainable cleaners can last significantly longer than conventional options.
• Low Temperature: Operating at room temperature reduces energy costs and carbon emissions.

Introducing Uni Prep: A Smart Cleaning Solution

MKS Autotech has developed a product called UniPrep, which exemplifies the sustainable approach to cleaning. Key features include:

• Room Temperature Operation: Eliminates the need for high energy consumption.
• Natural Degradation: The formulation degrades oil naturally over time, maintaining bath stability.
• Extended Bath Life: Users have reported bath life extending up to six times compared to conventional cleaners.

Uni Prep is not just a cleaner; it represents a smart and sustainable approach to degreasing that can significantly enhance productivity and reduce costs.

Addressing Descaling Needs with AC

In addition to cleaning, the surface treatment industry often faces challenges related to scaling, particularly from welding and heat marks. MKS Autotech offers AC, a descaler designed to tackle these issues effectively. Key benefits include:

• Reduction of Mechanical Hazards: Unlike mechanical methods that can cause injuries and noise pollution, AC provides a safer alternative.
• Environmentally Friendly: AC avoids the use of strong acids that are hazardous to both health and the environment.

Implementation Process

The Uni Prep and AC products can be integrated into a seven-stage cleaning process:

1. Apply UniPrep (degreaser)
2. Rinse
3. Apply AC (descaler)
4. Rinse
5. Follow with interlocks

This systematic approach ensures thorough cleaning and descaling, resulting in a stable and reliable surface treatment process.

Case Studies: Real-World Applications

North American Study

In a North American facility, workers faced safety issues due to mechanical cleaning methods. After implementing Uni Prep and AC, the facility reported a significant reduction in near-miss incidents and improved overall safety.

European Agriculture Manufacturer

A European agriculture manufacturer struggled with scaling issues that were previously addressed using hydrochloric acid. After switching to Uni Prep and AC, they experienced remarkable improvements in cleaning efficiency and safety, leading to successful long-term adoption of these products.

Conclusion

The transition from conventional cleaning methods to sustainable solutions like Uni Prep and AC is not just beneficial but necessary for the surface treatment industry. By adopting these innovative products, companies can achieve:

• Increased productivity
• Cost savings through reduced chemical and energy consumption
• Extended bath life and improved cleaning results

MKS Auto Tech is committed to providing ready-made solutions that enhance the sustainability and reliability of surface treatment processes. As the industry evolves, embracing these advancements will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness and environmental responsibility.

Thank you for your attention, and I welcome any questions regarding these innovative solutions