ultrasonic cleaners

[FJRay]

The jug I have says safe for aluminum and came from Costco. Confused

 

[RossKean]

The regular Simple Green is not specifically BAD for aluminum as far as I can tell. They have a product especially for the application but I doubt it is very different chemically. These cleaners are mildly alkaline which is effective on organics but not particularly aggressive toward aluminum.

Highly caustic and highly acidic cleaners/degreasers should be avoided since either of these will attack aluminum quite quickly. If it works for you and doesn't cloud or etch the surface too much, I think you are good to go. A mildly etched flat surface can be easily polished back but my biggest concern is with small internal passages in carbs etc.

Always worth it to test the cleaner on a non-critical surface before committing the entire part to the bath!

 

[infrared]

The regular Simple Green is not specifically BAD for aluminum as far as I can tell. They have a product especially for the application but I doubt it is very different chemically. These cleaners are mildly alkaline which is effective on organics but not particularly aggressive toward aluminum.Always worth it to test the cleaner on a non-critical surface before committing the entire part to the bath!

RossKean,

The issues here are hydorgen embrittlement, and corrosion. Simple Green (OTC) attacks aluminum, magnesium, and other metals.

Both the US Army and US Air Force now prohibit the use of Simple Green on aircraft and their components. Google can tell you more.

You really won't see much damage, as the metal weakens.

Cheers,

Infrared