CLEANING OF EQUIPMENT FOR OXYGEN SERVICE - AIGA

33
AIGA 012/04
The emission to water is the main environmental question for consideration in the use of machines for
aqueous cleaning. The emission to the atmosphere is the main impact from solvents.
The disposal of waste must follow local regulations. The disposal methods used for water-based
processes will depend on type of contaminants, concentrations, pH etc. The residue from a solventbased
process is obtained as a highly concentrated waste, which has to be disposed of according to
regulations in force.
All electrical equipment including that of the venting system must have the correct flame/explosion
proof ratings as defined by national regulations when flammable solvents are used.
For environmental aspects see also IGC document 113/03 ‘ Environmental Impacts of Transportation
of Gases’.
3 Washing Machines for Aqueous Agents
3.1 Mobile High Pressure Cleaning Equipment
Working principle:
Fig. 1. High pressure cleaning equipment
The main parts are a high-pressure water pump and a high-pressure hose with nozzles. The cleaning
agent is applied at low pressure and the rinsing is then performed by high-pressure water with very
high velocity. For more difficult contaminants, hot water is required. In some kind of equipment it is
possible to inject the dissolved cleaner together with the high-pressure water.
Applications:
A high pressure cleaning apparatus is suitable for cleaning of big pieces of equipment with easily
accessible surfaces like outer surfaces of pumps and compressors. Protect water sensitive parts of
the equipment from high-pressure liquid that may penetrate into internal parts.
This kind of equipment can also be used for internal cleaning of pipes. (See Appendix D "Detergent
cleaning of pipes with high pressure cleaning -equipment").