TO 35-1-3 - Robins Air Force Base

TO 35-1-3
CHAPTER 2
CLEANING
2.1 GENERAL.
2.1.1 Introduction. A well developed cleaning program utilizing
approved cleaning materials and processes is a key factor
in reducing the impact of corrosion. Use of untested or
unauthorized cleaning materials may cause premature coating
system failure and or accelerated corrosion.
2.1.2 SE Wash Cycles. For the purpose of this chapter
Support Equipment (SE) refers only to powered and non-powered
Aerospace Ground Equipment to include propulsion and
munitions handling trailers. However, MAJCOMs may add
additional types of equipment to the wash program. SE must
be washed in accordance with Table 2-1. SE assigned to locations
categorized as mild/moderate must be washed every 180
days. Wash can be scheduled in conjunction with phase
inspection if scheduled within due month. At locations categorized
as severe, SE must be washed every 90 days/quarterly at
minimum. MAJCOMs and local units may mandate or implement
wash intervals more frequently than those reflected in
Table 2-1. When determining more frequent wash cycle intervals,
a variety of factors should be considered. If the corrosion
protective systems (primers and topcoats) are in poor condition
or are compromised in any way, the coatings have not
been touched up, the equipment is stored outdoors, and/or
there is already evidence of corrosion, more frequent washing
and/or rinsing is of increased importance. Where corrosion of
this equipment is already a problem, wash cycles even more
frequent than 90 days/quarterly is recommended. If the SE is
temporarily assigned to locations where cleaning is not practical,
the affected equipment shall be cleaned, inspected, and
lubricated within 30 days of returning to home station. Base
locations not listed in Table 2-1 will use the requirements of
the nearest base location unless within 1.25 miles of salt water.
Locations within 1.25 miles of salt water are considered
severe and require 90 day wash. Contact AFCPCO for further
guidance if needed.
NOTE
Washing is a critical element of a comprehensive corrosion
program which also includes using only qualified
products for washing, painting, and other
corrosion prevention processes. This program must
include refurbishment of the equipment prior to deterioration
from corrosion, routine touch-up of the coating
system, use of corrosion preventive compounds
(CPC) where touch-up cannot be accomplished immediately,
and covered storage where practical.
2.1.3 Definition of Cleaning. Cleaning is a broad term
covering methods and materials needed to remove soils from a
surface. Selection of an appropriate cleaning method in any
given case depends on three important factors: (1) type and
amount of soil, (2) base material composition and surface condition,
and (3) degree of cleanliness required.
2.1.4 Types of Cleaners. Cleaners that are used in this
technical manual may be placed in types as follows:
2.1.4.1 Alkaline cleaners remove soil by displacement of the
contaminants from the surface rather than by direct solution in
the cleaner. After displacement, the soils may be carried in the
body of the cleaner as a suspension; it may separate, or in the
case of fatty soils, it may react partially or completely with the
cleaner to form water-soluble soap. Cleaners of this type usually
have components that aid in cleaning by lifting the soils
and other contaminants from a surface.
2.1.4.2 Solvent cleaners remove a soil by dissolving the soil
and usually leave a thin film or residue of an oily nature.
Removal of this oily film or residue is accomplished by using
an alkaline cleaner.
2.1.4.3 Solvent emulsion cleaners remove a soil by emulsifying
the oil constituent of the soil and holding it in suspension
until rinsed from the surface with water.
2.1.5 Methods of Cleaning. Methods of cleaning used in
this technical manual are four types, as follows:
2.1.5.1 Hand cleaning is commonly used when the parts/
equipment cleaning volume of work is too small, or the parts
too large to justify the expense of special equipment. Cleaning
solutions may be applied by means of brushes, swabs, or
cloths. Wherever the cleaning materials may be harmful to the
skin, personnel shall be supplied with proper safety equipment.
Hand cleaning is time consuming and may use more
water than other washing techniques. Pressure washers are
normally used; however, organizations sometimes use “Foamers”
to wash equipment.
2.1.5.2 Spray washing is usually the most-rapid method for
cleaning. The chief feature of spray washing is the application
of the mechanical force of the spray in addition to the chemical
and physical actions of the cleaning solution. By means of
these combined actions, the soil is rapidly wetted, penetrated,
loosened, removed from the surface, and suspended in the
solution in a free-rinsing condition.
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