|
Original Date: 02/23/1998
Revision Date: 01/18/2007
Information : Cascade Closed Loop Cleaning System
In July 1992, South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1172 mandated that spray guns must be cleaned in an enclosure to reduce emissions from volatile organic compound-containing materials. This rule also regulates emissions from the storage and disposal of the solvents used during the cleaning operation. As a result, Northrop Grumman switched to a Cascade Closed Loop Cleaning system for its paint spray guns.
Previously, the Northrop Grumman Corporation, Military Aircraft Division (MASD) cleaned its paint spray guns by dispersing solvent through the gun, or by disassembling the gun and cleaning the component parts in solvent. In July 1992, South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Rule 1171 mandated that spray guns must be cleaned in an enclosure to reduce emissions from volatile organic compound (VOC)-containing materials. This rule also regulates emissions from the storage and disposal of the solvents used during the cleaning operation.
As a result, Northrop Grumman switched to a Cascade Closed Loop Cleaning system for its paint spray guns. The spray gun is placed in the cleaning unit with the fluid passage mated to the unit’s solvent system. This automatic cleaning unit pumps solvent through the spray gun as well as over the external areas of the gun. The siphon cup can be cleaned simultaneously with the gun, but must first be removed from the spray gun before cleaning. A timed cycle on the unit can be repeatedly run as many times as necessary to clean the spray gun. The solvent is also reused until it is no longer effective for cleaning.
Since implementing the Cascade Closed Loop Cleaning system, Northrop Grumman reduced the amount of VOCs being released into the atmosphere. This system also enables the company to comply with SCAQMD Rule 1171.
For more information see the
Point of Contact for this survey.
|
