What's the difference between chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaner?

The non-chlorinated version of brake cleaner simply means that it doesn't have chlorinated solvents in its molecular structure. However, this does not make it safe or 'environmentally friendly. ' Often times, the alternative chemicals used in this variety of product are just as toxic, if not more so.

Which brake cleaner is better chlorinated or non-chlorinated?

While a chlorinated solvent may be toughest on grime, non-chlorinated alternatives are still much more powerful than water-detergent solutions, especially on paint and other substances. Remember to keep these differences in mind when maintaining clean, healthy brakes.

What is non-chlorinated brake cleaner used for?

It comes in a 14-ounce aerosol can and uses a potent solvent great for removing grease, brake fluid, oil, dust, and other buildup. Get rid of dirt, oils, grease, and other contaminants using CRC Brākleen® Brake Parts Cleaner Non-Chlorinated Low VOC formula.

Is all brake cleaner the same?

Brake cleaner benefits are numerous, but not all brake parts cleaners are the same. Choosing between varieties can be like trying to decide between the 567 different kinds of toothpaste on the store shelf. State regulations and 50-state legal formulations add another layer of product confusion.

What is non-Chlorinated brake Parts Cleaner?

By definition, Non-Chlorinated brake cleaner is simply any brake cleaner that doesn't contain chlorinated solvents. This distinction, however, does not make it safe and many of the chemicals used in these products are just as problematic. Heptane. Heptane is sometimes used in brake cleaner.

Brake Cleaner: Non-Chlorinated vs Chlorinated

Do I want chlorinated brake cleaner?

If you are cleaning a metal part that you plan on welding, using brake cleaning products is not recommended as it may create toxic fumes when welded (chlorinated versions in particular). Non-chlorinated brake cleaners are also safer to use on plastic parts.

Which brake cleaner is best?

What is the difference between red and green brake cleaner?

RED = CHLORINATED. GREEN = NON-CHLORINATED. THE CHOICE IS CLEAR. If your facility mandates chlorine-free products throughout the shop, choose GREEN CRC BRAKLEEN Non-Chlorinated for the strongest formula your state allows.

Is non chlorinated brake cleaner safe on plastic?

You will need to immediately clean off any residue, as brake cleaner (non-chlorinated included) will still react with rubber and plastic surfaces. You could also use a concentrated degreaser, such as simple green/greased lightning to do the job with no harmful effects.

What should you not use brake cleaner on?

In order to prevent ruining certain surfaces, avoid using brake cleaner on plastics, rubber, and any painted surface that you want to maintain. Protect these surfaces with careful application and small amounts of product at one time.

Does brake cleaner damage plastic?

When brake cleaners come in direct contact with rubber or plastic, they cause the materials to disintegrate or otherwise break down, thereby causing permanent damage. Brake cleaners damage the plastic materials by targeting the components that bind them together.

Should you use brake cleaner on brake pads?

Brake Cleaning Preparation

The cleaner can be used on brake linings, brake shoes, drums, rotors, caliper units, pads and other areas of the braking mechanism while they're still intact.

Is non chlorinated brake cleaner safe on paint?

Brake Cleaner

it is safe for painted surfaces and hoses, just don't use it near powder coated items. Not just for brakes, brake cleaner is a fast-drying solvent based cleaner that is good for most cleaning projects in the shop. It quickly removes oil, grease, and of course, brake fluid.

Does brake cleaner damage rubber seals?

Brake fluid, DOT 3 & 4, is corrosive to seals. It make them swell and eventually disintegrate. The rubber used on the brake seals is resistant to this but eventually it wears them. Other seals are likely corroded by brake fluid.

What's the difference between carb cleaner and brake cleaner?

Brake Cleaner is specifically made to remove dirt, debris, and oily fluids leaving the surface of your cleaned component clean and dry. Carburetor cleaners, on the other hand, are made to remove dirt, debris, and brake hardened carbons which may leave a little oil by the end of the day.

Can you use acetone instead of brake cleaner?

Don't use acetone for cleaning anything plastic or foam. It will melt it! So yeah, alcohol/metho is the way to go for cleaning brake pads.

Will carb cleaner hurt rubber seals?

Further there are several types of rubber and plastic and some can be safely sprayed with a cleaner while others will swell or rot away. There are brake cleaners and carb cleaners out there that are safe for plastics and rubbers.

Can you use contact cleaner as brake cleaner?

The contact cleaner is used to clean electrical connections. Brake parts cleaner is a powerful detergent that removes brake dust. The traces off the pcb can be lifted by using brake cleaner instead of contact cleaner.

What is the main ingredient in brake cleaner?

Tetrachloroethylene is commonly found in brake cleaners used in workshops. Despite its toxicity, it is an extremely effective, quick drying and non-flammable solvent.

Can you weld non chlorinated brake cleaner?

The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for a can of brake cleaner reads: “Do not use this product near open flames, welding operations, or excessive heat. Vapors may decompose to harmful or fatal corrosive gases such as hydrogen chloride and possibly phosgene.”

Does brake cleaner dissolve rust?

Use Brake Cleaner to Remove Rust From the Rotors

Let the rotor dry, then wipe it with a clean rag (no oil on the rag). If some rust remains, apply more brake cleaner and work the surface with steel wool or a wire brush. Wipe off the rotor and finish with a final shot of cleaner.