Abstract
Author believes little more attention is being paid to corrosion control in chemical cleaning operations than was common in 1957 when the first NACE committee on the subject was organized. History of chemical cleaning is reviewed, with references to the literature dealing with the use of petroleum products, potatoes and other materials. First use of acids is described and some engineers’ comments on use of acids are reported.
Following the introduction of inhibited acids for cleaning, the growth of contract cleaning is described. Some laboratory and field experience with cleaning by inhibited acid is described, and some of the corrosion and safety hazards examined.
In considering the contract cleaning of plants with acids, the author cites the difficulties faced in attempting to establish specifications for the work in advance of contract letting. He deplores the practice of letting acid cleaning on the lowest bid without a full understanding between the parties of what is to be done.
Writer suggests that the nature of the acid cleaning process is such, the potential hazards to persons and equipment so serious that industry would be advised to seek professional type services rather than let work on low bids. Some mention is made of cleaning agents other than hydrochloric acids and why contractors so far have shown little interest in them. 49 references. 5.9.2
