Client Overview
Founded in 1962, our client is a leading manufacturer of precision-engineered components, including springs, valve rotators, actuators, and exhaust valves.
Originally specialising in spring production, the company expanded its portfolio over the decades, earning prestigious recognition, including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise and Innovation in 2007.
The Cleaning Challenge
The company relied on 3M®Novec 72DE engineering fluid for degreasing its high-performance high-carbon steel and silicon chrome springs which range in wire diameter from 0.25mm to 1.5mm.
With a production volume exceeding 30,000 components per day, the cleaning process was a critical step in preparing parts for heat treatment.
However, when 3M® announced the discontinuation of Novec 72DE, the company faced an urgent need for a direct drop-in replacement that would maintain cleaning efficiency without requiring significant equipment modifications.
Fraser Technologies was recommended to the client via their existing 3M® distributor to find a suitable 3M® alternative to work with their existing ultrasonic cleaning equipment.
Finding the Right Alternative
Fraser Technologies began by assessing the company’s cleaning requirements
This was a relatively straightforward process as their existing solvent was well known, and the team had a clear understanding of what would work best as a replacement.
Chemours Opteon™ SF80, our standard alternative to 3M® Novec 72DE, was identified as the most compatible and effective option.
Why SF80?
Because it offered a true drop-in replacement with improved cleaning performance, with a significantly better environmental profile, and lower overall costs.
To validate the choice, Fraser Technologies carried out trials to ensure Opteon™ SF80 would perform seamlessly with the customer’s existing ultrasonic cleaning system.
The process was simple, the customer sent a batch of springs to our testing facility, where we cleaned them using Opteon™ SF80 and returned them to the client for further internal testing.
Their internal test involved heat treatment, a method that quickly reveals any residue left behind.
The results? Clean parts and complete confidence in the switch!
Smooth & Cost-Effective Transition
The transition to Opteon™ SF80 was straightforward and efficient.
With Fraser Technologies’ technical expertise and hands-on support, the process was as simple as draining the existing tanks, changing the filter and O-ring, and refilling the system.
This minimal disruption and ease of implementation helped ensure a smooth, cost-effective switch to the new solvent.
“The switch was surprisingly easy. We were able to continue using our existing cleaning equipment without major modifications, making the transition both cost-effective and efficient.”
“Roy Goshawk from FT was on hand to guide us through the process, organising seamless trials and ensuring minimal disruption to our operations,” said the Spring Department Manager
The Results: Improved Performance & Sustainability
The adoption of Opteon™ SF80 delivered outstanding cleaning results while also providing several additional benefits:
- Cost Savings: The client reduced overall cleaning costs to the new solvent’s efficiency and lower consumption rates.
- Environmental Benefits: Opteon™ SF80 has a lower environmental impact SF80 (<2) has a significant reduction in the GWP (Global Warming Potential) value compared to HFE72 (47) compared to its predecessor, supporting the company’s sustainability objectives.
- Operational Continuity: The new solution maintained consistent cleaning quality with the existing equipment without requiring process changes or downtime.
“Not only did we achieve excellent cleaning results, but the overall cost was reduced, and we now have a more environmentally friendly solution”
While the immediate goal was to find a drop-in replacement, the company has since realised several long-term benefits:
- Outstanding Cleaning Performance: The new solution delivers consistently high cleaning standards, enhancing cleaning quality and reliability.
- Lower Overall Costs: Overall costs for cleaning have been reduced.
- Improved Environmental Compliance: By switching to Opteon™ SF80, the company benefits from a more sustainable, environmentally responsible cleaning process.
“The transition helped future-proof our cleaning process, ensuring we remain compliant while maintaining high-quality standards.”
The Role of Fraser Technologies
Fraser Technologies expertise in both cleaning chemistry and equipment was a key factor in the successful transition.
The company praised Fraser Technologies knowledgeable approach and proactive support, highlighting the seamless coordination of testing, validation, and implementation.
“FT’s understanding of degreasing chemistry and ultrasonic cleaning systems made this process incredibly easy. Their guidance ensured we found the right solution without trial-and-error disruptions.”
Looking Ahead
When asked would you use Fraser Technologies again the client answered “Most definitely!”
“We would absolutely use FT again for any additional cleaning needs.”
Get in Touch
As experts in the field, Fraser Technologies have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our clients’ industries and sectors. Our insights and independent recommendations are based on over 55 years experience, and rigorous analysis of the options available to you.
