Yes. KBS Klean works well as the detergent in a parts washer. The one thing to keep in mind is that it is a concentrate, so work out your ratio against the full tank volume rather than pouring in a jug and hoping. It is sold in 5 gallon pails and 55 gallon drums, which is what makes filling a washer practical.
Picking a Ratio for a Recirculating Tank
Use the same table you would use by hand, applied to the tank volume:
- Heavily soiled parts: 1 part hot water to 1 part KBS Klean.
- Moderately soiled parts: 5 parts hot water to 1 part KBS Klean.
- Lightly soiled parts: 10 parts hot water to 1 part KBS Klean.
Effective dilution rates vary according to the type and degree of contaminants as well as the surface material, so start where the soil level points and adjust. Heated washers have an advantage here: the warmer the water used, the more effective and powerful the cleaning action.
Full ratios including the non ferrous case are on the dilution ratios page.
Bulk Sizes Worth Knowing
KBS Klean is available in 1/2 pint, quart, gallon, 5 gallon pail and 55 gallon drum. For a parts washer the 5 gallon pail is usually the right unit; a shop running a large heated tank continuously is the drum case.
Soak Times for Badly Contaminated Parts
For heavy duty cleaning, extended soaking times of up to 24 hours or more may be necessary, which a parts washer tank is well suited to. Use a bristle brush or scouring pad to expedite the cleaning of heavily soiled surfaces, and retreat with KBS Klean solution as necessary until the surface is clean.
After the Washer, Before the Paint
Do not allow KBS Klean to dry on a part before rinsing. Rinse thoroughly with water after cleaning and let the part dry. If the part is going to be coated, metal surfaces cleaned with KBS Klean should be treated with RustBlast before painting to ensure proper adhesion. A part pulled out of a washer and sprayed without an etch step is the most common prep shortcut and the most common adhesion failure.
Wear protective rubber gloves and safety glasses when handling the product and the solution.
Frequently Asked Questions: KBS Klean in a Parts Washer
Still have questions about using KBS Klean in a parts washer? Contact us for help.
