Rayhong Professional Car Brake Cleaner, Clutch Cleaner, Iron Remover, Wheel Cleaner, Brake Cleaner, Brake Noise Reduction Spray, Polishing and Maintenance

Automotive brake cleaner is a powerful solvent-based solution that uses a three-step process of solvency, displacement, and rapid evaporation to eliminate contaminants, ensuring optimal brake performance and longevity. It is a versatile tool for general degreasing but must be used with specific safety precautions and an understanding of its distinct chemical formulations. 

Types and Formulations

Brake cleaners fall into two primary categories based on their chemical composition, each with different properties regarding flammability and effectiveness. 

• Chlorinated Brake Cleaner
  • Composition: These formulas contain strong solvents like tetrachloroethylene (PERC) or trichloroethylene (TCE).
  • Properties: They are highly effective, non-flammable, and clean very quickly, leaving no residue.
  • Considerations: They have significant health and environmental risks and are banned in some regions (like California) due to regulatory concerns and potential carcinogenic effects. They should not be used on hot surfaces due to the risk of creating dangerous fumes.
• Non-Chlorinated Brake Cleaner
  • Composition: These typically contain ingredients like acetone, heptane, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, and various hydrocarbons.
  • Properties: They are generally considered safer for the user and the environment compared to chlorinated versions.
  • Considerations: Most non-chlorinated formulas are highly flammable and should be used with extreme caution away from open flames, sparks, or hot surfaces. Their cleaning power is slightly less potent than chlorinated versions, but newer formulations are consistently improving. 

Key Benefits and Uses

The primary function of brake cleaner is to maintain the safety and performance of a vehicle's braking system. 

• Braking System Maintenance: It dissolves and flushes away brake fluid, grease, oil, and brake dust from calipers, pads, rotors, drums, and linings, which helps prevent squealing or grinding noises and ensures reliable contact between components.
• Preventative Care: Regular cleaning helps extend the lifespan of brake components by preventing corrosion and uneven wear.
• Versatility (Non-Brake Uses): Mechanics and DIY enthusiasts use it as a general-purpose degreaser for various metal parts, including engine components, C.V. joints, and wheel bearings. It can even be used as a stain remover on concrete, rugs, or clothing, or to clean certain gun parts (with caution regarding non-metal parts). 

Safety and Application

Proper usage and safety precautions are vital when working with brake cleaner. 

• Ventilation and Gear: Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety goggles, to protect your skin and eyes from chemical exposure.
• Application: Apply the cleaner to cold surfaces using short bursts from the aerosol can. Place a catch pan underneath to collect the runoff for proper disposal.
• Avoid Misuse: Never use brake cleaner as a substitute for starting fluid, carburetor cleaner, or MAF sensor cleaner, as the harsh solvents can damage delicate components or pose severe fire/health hazards. Avoid spraying on plastic, rubber seals, or painted surfaces, as it can cause damage.