How to use UreChem Surface Cleaners - SBWG WBWG
In this blog, we’re going to discuss the proper selection and technique for using SBWG & WBWG surface Cleaner to clean and prepare a surface for painting. Surface cleaners, also known as wax and grease removers or final wipes, are a blend of solvents or water and co-solvents designed to dissolve or lift contaminants so they can be wiped clean from the surface.
UreChem Offers two types of surface cleaners:
SBWG
A solvent-based blend. SBWG is more effective at removing non-polar contaminants such as waxes grease oils and silicones than water-based cleaners
WBWG
This is a water-based blend. This blend is more effective at removing polar surface contaminants such as salts.
Surface Cleaner's Use & Information
Each product is effective at removing a wide range of contaminants so using both is not required but a great practice in your finishing process where regulations allow. Most Low VOC regulated areas do not allow the use of conventional wax and grease removers such as SBWG and therefore WBWG must be used.
The water co-solvent and surfactant blend found in WBWG is effective at removing a wide range of contaminants that are both nonpolar and polar in nature. whether you use the solvent-based version or the water-based version, the technique is the same, You start by selecting the proper personal protective equipment and performing the work in a well-ventilated area free of ignition sources, including heat, sparks, or open flames.
Cleaning Your Automotive Surface Using WBWG or SBWG Surface Cleaners
- Saturate a clean lint-free cloth with surface cleaner and wipe your part to apply a liberal amount of surface cleaner to the surface.
- If you are applying the correct amount of cleaner the surface should become shiny and stay shiny until you wipe it dry with a clean lint-free cloth.
- Only work an area large enough that can be wiped dry before it flashes dry. The wipe-on step applies the surface cleaner to dissolve and lift the contaminants but leaves many contaminants on the surface allowing the surface cleaner to dry on the surface simply allows the contaminants to dry and remain on the surface.
The wipe-off step is important in that it removes the contaminants from the surface and into your clean cloth. Changing both the wipe-on cloth and wipe off cloth regularly ensures you are removing more contaminants and not just moving them around on the surface.
A clean looking wipe off cloth is a good sign you are getting the surface clean and ready to paint. A good clean surface is a critical first step to ensure you have a good paintable surface to build your finish.