Frequently Asked Questions
Alliance Manufacturing, Inc. engineers and manufactures industrial parts washers and parts cleaning systems tailored to your production needs. Our offerings include aqueous (water-based) parts washers, vacuum degreasing systems, custom designs, and support services — all focused on delivering consistent, repeatable cleaning performance.
An industrial parts washer is a machine designed to remove oils, grease, metal chips, coolants, carbon, and other manufacturing contaminants from parts before they move to the next production stage. Depending on the application, industrial parts washers use aqueous cleaning solutions, spray, immersion, rinsing, and drying processes to deliver consistent cleaning results while improving product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
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A parts cleaner is any equipment used to remove contaminants from manufactured components before assembly, finishing, inspection, or shipment. Industrial parts cleaners range from manual cleaning stations to fully automated systems that wash, rinse, dry, and protect parts. The right cleaning method depends on the part geometry, contamination type, production volume, and required cleanliness level.
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An enclosed parts washer cleans components inside a sealed chamber, helping contain heat, cleaning solution, and contaminants throughout the cleaning cycle. This design improves cleaning consistency, reduces solution loss, minimizes operator exposure, and creates a cleaner work environment. Enclosed systems are commonly available in cabinet and conveyor configurations, depending on production requirements.
Industrial parts washers are used across a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical device manufacturing, electronics, agriculture, heavy equipment, metal fabrication, and general manufacturing. They help remove production contaminants before assembly, coating, testing, or packaging while meeting each industry’s cleanliness and quality requirements.
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Alliance Manufacturing has designed and manufactured industrial parts cleaning systems since 1994, offering standard and custom-engineered solutions for a wide variety of manufacturing applications. Its product portfolio includes cabinet, conveyor, indexing, rotary drum, vacuum degreasing, and oil removal systems, supported by application engineering, replacement parts, and aftermarket service to help manufacturers improve cleaning performance and operational efficiency.
• Full interior access for service
• Removable spray headers and advanced filtration
• Corrosion-resistant construction
• Custom flexibility
• In-house engineering and support backed by extensive industry experience
Yes. Through our R3 (Reuse, Rebuild, Recondition) program, we offer refurbished washers that provide cost savings while maintaining reliable performance.
Our aqueous cleaning systems focus on reducing or eliminating the use of hazardous solvents. Many systems are optimized for water reuse, energy efficiency, and waste reduction helping you achieve sustainability goals.
A micron (micrometer) is one-millionth of a meter — that’s 0.000039 inches. The term is commonly used to describe the size of particles or the level of cleanliness required when specifying how clean a surface must be. Many technical resources include diagrams to help visualize micron scales.
Alliance Manufacturing, Inc. is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where all systems are engineered and manufactured in-house.
Selecting the right industrial parts washer depends on several factors, including part size, contamination type, production volume, cleanliness requirements, available floor space, and downstream manufacturing processes. The following FAQs answer common equipment selection questions to help manufacturers identify the most suitable cleaning system for their application.
Choosing the right industrial parts washer starts with understanding your application. Consider the size and material of the parts, the type of contaminants being removed, required cleanliness standards, production volume, available floor space, and whether cleaning will be performed as a batch or continuous process. Evaluating these factors helps determine the most effective cleaning system for your operation.
The choice between a cabinet parts washer and a conveyor parts washer depends primarily on production volume and workflow. Cabinet parts washers are well suited for batch cleaning of individual or mixed-part loads, while conveyor parts washers continuously clean parts as they move through the system, making them ideal for high-volume manufacturing. The best option depends on throughput requirements, part size, available floor space, and production efficiency goals.
Batch spray cleaning uses pressurized spray nozzles to remove contaminants from part surfaces, making it ideal for components with accessible geometries and moderate to heavy soils. Batch immersion cleaning submerges parts in a heated cleaning solution, allowing the chemistry to penetrate recessed areas and complex geometries. The preferred method depends on part design, contamination type, and required cleanliness.
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Yes, many industrial parts washers can be configured to clean multiple part types when they have similar cleaning requirements. Adjustable fixtures, programmable wash cycles, conveyor speeds, spray pressures, and cleaning chemistry allow manufacturers to process a range of components on the same machine. For operations with significantly different part sizes or contamination levels, a custom-engineered cleaning system may provide the best long-term flexibility.
The right parts washer size depends on the largest part being cleaned, production throughput, fixture requirements, available floor space, and future manufacturing needs. While selecting a machine that fits today’s requirements is important, many manufacturers also plan for future production growth to avoid capacity limitations. An application review helps determine the most appropriate washer configuration.
There is no single industrial cleaning system that is best for every application. The ideal solution depends on the parts being cleaned, contamination type, required cleanliness level, production volume, cycle time, drying requirements, and available plant space. Evaluating these factors helps identify the cleaning technology and equipment configuration best suited to your manufacturing process
Industrial parts cleaning involves more than simply removing visible dirt or oil. The cleaning process, chemistry, equipment design, and drying method all influence the final cleanliness level and production efficiency. These FAQs explain how industrial parts cleaning systems work, what contaminants they remove, and how different cleaning technologies are selected for specific manufacturing applications.
An industrial parts washer removes contaminants by combining cleaning chemistry, mechanical action, heat, and time. Depending on the application, parts move through washing, rinsing, and drying stages using high-pressure spray, immersion, or a combination of both. The cleaning process is designed to remove oils, grease, machining chips, coolants, and other manufacturing residues while delivering consistent, repeatable cleaning results.
Industrial parts washers are designed to clean a wide variety of metal and manufactured components, including machined parts, castings, stampings, fabricated assemblies, welded components, engine parts, hydraulic components, and reusable containers. The parts that can be cleaned depend on their material, size, weight, contamination type, and the cleaning process required for the application.
The appropriate cleaning solution depends on the contaminants being removed, the material being cleaned, water quality, operating temperature, and required cleanliness level. Most industrial aqueous parts washers use water-based detergents formulated to remove oils, grease, coolants, machining fluids, and particulate without damaging the workpiece. Selecting the correct cleaning chemistry is essential for achieving consistent cleaning performance and maximizing solution life.
Yes, aqueous cleaning can replace solvent cleaning for many industrial applications. Modern water-based cleaning systems effectively remove oils, grease, machining fluids, and particulate while reducing solvent use and supporting safer workplace practices. However, the best cleaning method depends on the part material, contamination type, cleanliness specification, and production requirements. Some precision applications may still require specialized cleaning technologies.
Aqueous parts washers remove a wide range of manufacturing contaminants, including cutting oils, machining fluids, grease, carbon deposits, metal chips, polishing compounds, coolants, dust, and other particulate. The contaminants that can be removed depend on the cleaning chemistry, wash temperature, spray pressure, cycle time, and the design of the cleaning system.
Machined aluminum parts should be cleaned using a process that removes machining oils, chips, and residue without staining, discoloring, or damaging the surface. Factors such as cleaning chemistry, spray pressure, water quality, drying method, and corrosion protection all influence the final result. The cleaning process should also meet any downstream assembly, coating, or cleanliness requirements.
Sheet metal parts are typically cleaned to remove stamping oils, lubricants, metal fines, and other manufacturing residues before welding, painting, powder coating, or assembly. The appropriate cleaning method depends on the material, part geometry, contamination level, and production volume. Spray washing systems are commonly used for continuous production, while batch systems are suitable for lower production volumes.
Industrial parts washers can incorporate several drying methods, including heated air, high-velocity blow-off, air knives, vacuum drying, and heated recirculating air systems. The best drying method depends on the part geometry, material, production speed, and required cleanliness level. Effective drying helps prevent flash rust, water spotting, and contamination before the next manufacturing process.
Maintaining a clean wash solution is essential for consistent parts cleaning, longer solution life, and reduced operating costs. Tramp oil, dirt, and other contaminants can reduce cleaning performance, increase maintenance requirements, and shorten bath life. The following FAQs explain how oil removal systems help improve cleaning efficiency and extend the performance of industrial parts washers.
Tramp oil is unwanted oil that contaminates a cleaning solution or coolant after leaking from machining operations, hydraulic systems, lubricants, or the parts being cleaned. Because tramp oil floats on the surface of aqueous cleaning solutions, it can reduce cleaning effectiveness, create odors, interfere with detergent performance, and increase maintenance if it is not removed regularly.
Removing tramp oil helps maintain cleaning performance, extend wash solution life, reduce detergent consumption, and improve overall equipment reliability. Allowing oil to accumulate can redeposit contaminants onto clean parts, increase bath maintenance, contribute to unpleasant odors, and reduce the efficiency of the cleaning process. Regular oil removal supports more consistent cleaning results and lower operating costs.
An oil skimmer is a mechanical device that removes floating tramp oil from the surface of industrial wash tanks, rinse tanks, and coolant systems. By continuously separating oil from the cleaning solution, oil skimmers help maintain solution quality, improve cleaning consistency, reduce waste disposal, and extend the usable life of the cleaning bath.
Oil skimmers remove floating oil by using a rotating belt, tube, disc, or other collection medium that attracts surface oil while leaving most of the water behind. The collected oil is then scraped from the collection surface and discharged into a separate container for disposal or recycling. This continuous process helps keep the cleaning solution cleaner during production.
An oil skimmer removes floating tramp oil from the surface of a cleaning solution, while an oil coalescer separates both free-floating and suspended oil by allowing small oil droplets to combine into larger droplets that are easier to remove. Oil skimmers are often used for continuous surface oil removal, whereas oil coalescers are typically selected when greater oil separation efficiency or longer wash solution life is required.
To extend cleaning solution life, regularly remove tramp oil, filter out metal chips and debris, maintain the correct detergent concentration, monitor solution temperature, and follow a preventive maintenance schedule. Proper wash solution management helps maintain cleaning performance, reduce chemical consumption, minimize downtime, and lower operating costs while improving overall equipment efficiency.
Cleaning a part is only one step in the manufacturing process. Many industries also require verification that contaminants have been removed before assembly, coating, welding, or final inspection. The following FAQs explain how parts cleanliness is evaluated, when cleanliness testing is required, and how industrial cleaning systems support precision manufacturing.
The cleanliness level an industrial parts washer can achieve depends on the cleaning process, detergent chemistry, part geometry, contamination type, wash temperature, and drying method. Properly designed systems can remove oils, grease, machining chips, particulate, and other manufacturing residues to meet the cleanliness requirements of many industrial applications. Applications with critical cleanliness specifications may also require cleanliness verification after washing.
Parts cleanliness is measured by evaluating the amount and type of contamination remaining after cleaning. Depending on the application, manufacturers may inspect parts visually or perform particle analysis, gravimetric testing, non-volatile residue (NVR) testing, or other verification methods. The appropriate measurement technique depends on the industry’s cleanliness standards and the function of the finished component.
Particle cleanliness testing measures the number, size, and type of particles remaining on a component after cleaning. Manufacturers commonly use this process to verify that machining chips, metal fines, dust, fibers, and other particulate have been removed before assembly or final inspection. Particle cleanliness testing is widely used in industries where contamination can affect product performance, reliability, or safety.
Yes. Modern aqueous cleaning systems can achieve precision cleaning for many manufacturing applications when the cleaning process, chemistry, filtration, rinsing, and drying stages are properly engineered. The required cleanliness level depends on the component, contamination type, and industry specifications. For applications with extremely demanding requirements, additional cleaning or verification processes may also be required.
Precision parts cleaning is commonly required in automotive, aerospace, medical device, electronics, hydraulic, semiconductor, and other high-performance manufacturing industries. These applications often require contaminants to be removed before assembly, coating, bonding, or testing to help ensure product quality, reliability, and compliance with customer or industry cleanliness specifications.
Routine maintenance is essential for maintaining cleaning performance, extending equipment life, and reducing unexpected downtime. Many cleaning issues can be traced to wash solution management, equipment settings, or routine maintenance practices. The following FAQs address common troubleshooting questions and best practices for keeping industrial parts washers operating efficiently.
If parts are not coming out clean, the cause may be contaminated wash solution, incorrect detergent concentration, clogged spray nozzles, insufficient wash time, low solution temperature, inadequate spray pressure, or excessive production soils. Reviewing the cleaning chemistry, machine settings, filtration system, and preventive maintenance schedule can help identify and correct the root cause.
Flash rust typically occurs when moisture remains on ferrous parts after cleaning or when the cleaning solution does not provide adequate corrosion protection. Factors such as rinse water quality, drying performance, wash chemistry, and the time between cleaning and packaging can all contribute. Optimizing the cleaning process and drying cycle helps reduce the risk of flash rust.
Incomplete drying may result from insufficient drying time, inadequate airflow, low drying temperatures, complex part geometry, or excess rinse water remaining on the surface. Selecting the appropriate drying method and optimizing airflow, temperature, and cycle time helps ensure parts are dry before assembly, coating, or packaging.
Routine maintenance includes monitoring cleaning solution concentration, removing tramp oil, cleaning filters, inspecting spray nozzles, checking pumps and heaters, verifying conveyor operation where applicable, and replacing worn components as recommended. A preventive maintenance program helps maintain cleaning performance, reduce downtime, and extend equipment life.
There is no fixed replacement schedule because solution life depends on production volume, contamination levels, detergent concentration, filtration efficiency, and oil removal practices. Many manufacturers extend solution life by monitoring solution quality, removing tramp oil, and maintaining the proper chemical concentration rather than replacing the solution on a calendar-based schedule.
Regular preventive maintenance, effective filtration, continuous tramp oil removal, proper cleaning chemistry, and routine equipment inspections all help reduce maintenance requirements. Selecting a parts washer designed for easy access to filters, pumps, and other serviceable components can also simplify maintenance and reduce downtime over the life of the equipment.
As production volumes increase and manufacturing processes become more automated, industrial parts washers are often integrated into complete production lines. Custom engineering, robotic automation, and control system integration help manufacturers improve throughput, reduce manual handling, and achieve consistent cleaning performance. The following FAQs explain common automation capabilities and custom engineering options.
Yes. Industrial parts washers can be integrated into automated production lines to support continuous manufacturing and reduce manual handling. Depending on the application, systems can interface with conveyors, robots, transfer equipment, vision systems, and other production equipment to streamline workflow and improve cleaning consistency throughout the manufacturing process.
Yes. Alliance Manufacturing designs and builds custom parts washers to meet specific production requirements, part geometries, cleanliness specifications, and facility layouts. Custom systems can incorporate multiple wash stages, rinsing, drying, oil removal, automation, and material handling features to support unique manufacturing processes and production goals.
Yes. Many industrial parts washers can be integrated with robotic loading and unloading systems to reduce manual labor, improve repeatability, and support continuous production. Robotic automation is commonly used for high-volume manufacturing applications where consistent part handling, shorter cycle times, and increased productivity are important.
An indexing conveyor moves parts through a cleaning system in controlled increments rather than continuously. This allows parts to remain in each wash, rinse, or drying stage for a precise amount of time before advancing to the next station. Indexing conveyors are commonly used when consistent cycle times and repeatable cleaning results are required.
Yes. Modern industrial parts washers can be integrated with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), manufacturing execution systems (MES), and other factory automation platforms. These integrations can support production monitoring, process control, alarm management, data collection, and communication with upstream and downstream manufacturing equipment.
Different industries have unique parts cleaning requirements based on the materials, contaminants, production processes, and cleanliness standards involved. Industrial parts washers can be configured for a wide range of manufacturing applications, from high-volume automotive production to precision cleaning for electronics and aerospace components. The following FAQs highlight common cleaning challenges across key industries.
The best parts washer for automotive manufacturing depends on the components being cleaned, production volume, and cleanliness requirements. Conveyor parts washers are commonly used for high-volume production because they provide continuous cleaning, rinsing, and drying, while cabinet parts washers are often selected for lower-volume or mixed-part applications. Custom-engineered systems may be recommended for specialized automotive manufacturing processes.
Aerospace components are cleaned to remove machining oils, coolants, metal chips, and other contaminants before assembly, coating, inspection, or testing. The cleaning process must achieve consistent results without damaging sensitive materials or complex geometries. Depending on the application, manufacturers may use aqueous cleaning systems, precision cleaning processes, and cleanliness verification to meet customer and industry requirements.
PCB and electronics manufacturers use specialized cleaning systems to remove flux residues, solder paste, ionic contamination, oils, and particulate from printed circuit boards and electronic assemblies. The cleaning method depends on the assembly process, component sensitivity, and required cleanliness level. Proper cleaning helps improve product reliability and prepares assemblies for inspection, testing, or protective coating.
Medical waste containers are typically cleaned using automated wash systems that remove biological residue, dirt, labels, and other contaminants before the containers are returned to service. Depending on regulatory and operational requirements, the cleaning process may include washing, rinsing, sanitizing, and drying to help support safe container reuse and consistent cleaning performance.
Heavy equipment manufacturers often clean large fabricated components, castings, machined parts, and hydraulic assemblies before welding, painting, assembly, or shipment. The most suitable cleaning system depends on part size, contamination type, production volume, and handling requirements. Conveyor systems, cabinet washers, and custom-engineered cleaning systems are commonly used for these demanding industrial applications.
Purchasing an industrial parts washer involves more than selecting the right equipment. Factors such as system design, lead time, installation, operator training, and ongoing service all contribute to long-term performance. The following FAQs answer common questions about pricing, project timelines, aftermarket support, and how to get started with a custom cleaning solution.
The cost of an industrial parts washer depends on several factors, including the machine type, size, level of automation, cleaning stages, material handling requirements, and customization. Standard systems generally cost less than fully engineered solutions designed for specific manufacturing processes. The best way to determine pricing is through an application review, where your cleaning requirements and production goals are evaluated to recommend the most suitable solution.
Lead times for a custom parts washer vary depending on the project’s complexity, engineering requirements, component availability, and production schedule. After reviewing your application, Alliance Manufacturing can provide a project timeline that includes engineering, manufacturing, factory testing, and delivery. Early engagement helps ensure the system is designed to meet your production schedule and operational requirements.
Yes. Alliance Manufacturing provides installation support and operator training to help customers install, commission, and operate their equipment effectively. Training typically covers machine operation, routine maintenance, safety procedures, and recommended operating practices so your team can achieve consistent cleaning performance from day one.
Yes. Alliance Manufacturing offers replacement parts, technical support, and aftermarket service to help customers maintain equipment performance throughout its service life. Whether you need replacement components, troubleshooting assistance, maintenance recommendations, or service support, the Parts & Service team can help keep your cleaning system operating efficiently.
You can request a quote by providing information about your parts, contaminants, production volume, cleanliness requirements, and any facility or automation considerations. The more details you share about your application, the better Alliance Manufacturing can recommend a cleaning solution tailored to your manufacturing process and operational goals.
