Product Introduction
Trichloroethylene, widely known as TCE (CAS 79-01-6), is a clear, colorless, non-flammable volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet, chloroform-like odor. It is a powerful chlorocarbon solvent that has become an industrial staple due to its exceptional ability to dissolve a wide range of organic materials. Trichloroethylene (CAS 79-01-6) is primarily recognized for its role in the metalworking industry as a premier vapor degreasing agent. Its high stability, low boiling point, and effective solvency make it ideal for cleaning precision parts. Additionally, it serves as a critical intermediate in the production of refrigerants and as a specialized solvent in the textile and adhesive industries.
Product Selling Points
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Superior Cleaning Efficiency: Unmatched power in dissolving heavy oils, greases, waxes, and tars from metal surfaces.
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High Volatility & Fast Drying: Its low boiling point ensures rapid evaporation, allowing for high-speed industrial throughput without leaving residue.
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Non-Flammable: Unlike many hydrocarbon solvents, TCE has no flash point under normal conditions, significantly reducing fire risks in the workplace.
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Exceptional Stability: Our TCE is stabilized with specialized additives to prevent acid formation and decomposition during high-temperature vapor degreasing.
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Low Moisture Content: Ultra-low water content (≤ 50 ppm) prevents corrosion of sensitive metal parts during the cleaning cycle.
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Cost-Effective Bulk Supply: As a primary wholesaler, Chemfine provides competitive pricing for large-volume industrial consumers.
Applications
Industrial Vapor Degreasing This product is the primary solvent used in vapor degreasing machines to clean metal parts for the aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries, ensuring surfaces are perfectly prepared for plating or painting.
Chemical Intermediate for Refrigerants TCE is a fundamental building block in the synthesis of HFC-134a and other hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants, playing a vital role in the global cooling and HVAC supply chain.
Textile and Dry Cleaning Solvent It is utilized in the textile industry for scouring and as a spot-cleaning agent, and historically as a dry-cleaning solvent due to its ability to remove stubborn stains without damaging synthetic fibers.
Adhesives and Sealants It acts as a solvent carrier in the formulation of high-strength adhesives and specialized sealants, providing controlled viscosity and rapid bond formation.
Packaging
Standard industrial packaging options for Trichloroethylene include:
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280kg tight-head steel drums (The standard export weight for maximum container efficiency).
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IBC Tanks (1000L) for high-volume automated production lines.
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ISO Tanks for bulk international maritime transport (approx. 20-24 MT).
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Sealed metal canisters for laboratory or small-batch technical use.
Storage
Trichloroethylene must be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse. It is sensitive to light and air; therefore, containers must be kept tightly sealed and stored in dark-colored steel drums. Protect from direct sunlight and high temperatures, as heat can trigger decomposition into toxic fumes (such as phosgene). Store away from strong bases, chemically active metals (like aluminum or magnesium powder), and oxidizing agents. Ensure the storage area has proper floor drainage and vapor recovery systems.
Related and Similar Products
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Perchloroethylene (PCE) – CAS 127-18-4
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Methylene Chloride (DCM) – CAS 75-09-2
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1,1,1-Trichloroethane – CAS 71-55-6
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Chloroform – CAS 67-66-3
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Carbon Tetrachloride – CAS 56-23-5
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Ethylene Dichloride (EDC) – CAS 107-06-2
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n-Propyl Bromide (nPB) – CAS 106-94-5
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Monochlorobenzene – CAS 108-90-7
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Tetrachloroethane – CAS 79-34-5
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Vinyl Chloride Monomer – CAS 75-01-4
FAQ
Industrial Degreasing and Solvent Use
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Q1: Is Trichloroethylene compatible with all metals? A1: TCE is highly compatible with iron, steel, and copper. However, for aluminum and magnesium, it must be stabilized with specific inhibitors to prevent a vigorous catalytic reaction.
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Q2: Why is TCE preferred over water-based cleaners in precision optics? A2: It has much lower surface tension, allowing it to penetrate micro-crevices that water cannot reach, and it dries instantly without leaving water spots or requiring heat.
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Q3: Can TCE be recycled in a vapor degreaser? A3: Yes, one of its main advantages is that it can be continuously distilled and reclaimed within the degreasing equipment, making it efficient for high-volume use.
Safety and Environmental Compliance
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Q1: What are the regulatory restrictions on TCE? A1: TCE is regulated as a VOC and a hazardous air pollutant. Users should check local environmental laws (such as REACH in Europe or EPA guidelines in the US) regarding emission controls and workplace exposure limits.
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Q2: What should be used for PPE when handling TCE? A2: Viton or PVA gloves are recommended, as standard nitrile or latex may be permeated. A respirator with an organic vapor cartridge should be used in poorly ventilated areas.
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Q3: Does the product contain a stabilizer? A3: Yes, Chemfine supplies stabilized industrial grade TCE to ensure the solvent remains neutral and does not turn acidic during the boiling/vaporization cycle.
