BioSolv - the safe and simple way to remove Hylomar Universal Blue

Technical Report: Investigation into the effects of BioSolv on Hylomar Universal Blue gasket and jointing compound

Reason for investigation
A client in the chemical industry requested a cleaner for the removal of Hylomar Universal Blue after dismantling of chemical plant.

Tests and Results

1. Solubility
A small amount of Hylomar Universal Blue (approximately 1g) was placed in a beaker and 10ml of BioSolv added. The Hylomar Universal Blue immediately began to dissolve, colouring the BioSolv blue. Hylomar Universal Blue is readily soluble in BioSolv.

2. Hardened Hylomar Universal Blue
Although Hylomar Universal Blue is described as non hardening and non setting even at high temperatures, it does dry out and harden to some extent and can be difficult to remove from mating surfaces. Scraping off is inclined to cause damage through scoring, necessitating machining to rectify damage. A mild steel slide, 10cm x 3cm, was coated with Hylomar Universal Blue and 3 lines of the compound were left proud to give added thickness. The metal slide was placed in an oven at 200°C for 1 hour. The slide was then allowed to cool. BioSolv was sparingly poured onto the slide. The following results were observed:

5 minutes: Surface of Hylomar Universal Blue gasket dissolving.

10 minutes: General softening of the gasket.

15 minutes: Able to push gasket over the surface of the slide.

20 minutes: Gasket dissolving and scrape-able leaving substrate clean.

30 minutes: Gasket has turned to gel and can be wiped from the surface of the slide.

3. Conclusions
Hylomar Universal Blue was found to be readily soluble in BioSolv under the conditions described above. The tests indicated that BioSolv is suitable for the removal of Hylomar Universal Blue from mechanical components.