What is the difference between chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaner? (2023)

What is the difference between chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaner?

The non-chlorinated version of brake cleaner simply means that it doesn't have chlorinated solvents in its molecular structure. However, this does not make it safe or 'environmentally friendly. ' Often times, the alternative chemicals used in this variety of product are just as toxic, if not more so.

Brake cleaner benefits are numerous, but not all brake parts cleaners are the same. Choosing between varieties can be like trying to decide between the 567 different kinds of toothpaste on the store shelf. State regulations and 50-state legal formulations add another layer of product confusion.

Chlorinated and non-chlorinated brake cleaner both contain toxic chemicals, though chlorinated solvents contain the more harmful ingredients between the two.

Non-chlorinated brake cleaners use hydrocarbons as a main component; it will either be a low-boiling aliphatic compound or higher-boiling hydrocarbon mixture. Aromatics like benzene, toluene or xylene may also be used. The hydrocarbons used are sometimes made by hydrogenation from naphtha.

In order to prevent ruining certain surfaces, avoid using brake cleaner on plastics, rubber, and any painted surface that you want to maintain. Protect these surfaces with careful application and small amounts of product at one time.

You will need to immediately clean off any residue, as brake cleaner (non-chlorinated included) will still react with rubber and plastic surfaces. You could also use a concentrated degreaser, such as simple green/greased lightning to do the job with no harmful effects.

If you are cleaning a metal part that you plan on welding, using brake cleaning products is not recommended as it may create toxic fumes when welded (chlorinated versions in particular). Non-chlorinated brake cleaners are also safer to use on plastic parts.

Brake Cleaning Preparation

The cleaner can be used on brake linings, brake shoes, drums, rotors, caliper units, pads and other areas of the braking mechanism while they're still intact.

Purasolve Brake Cleaner is an ultra-safe, residue-free cleaning solvent for brakes and other technical applications developed to replace highly toxic & explosive brake cleaners.

Is chlorinated brake cleaner bad for you?

Short term exposure to higher levels of Tetrachloroethylene can cause build-up of fluid in the lungs, respiratory irritation, severe shortness of breath, sweating, nausea and vomiting. In extreme cases, short-term exposure to higher levels of this chemical can cause unconsciousness and death.

However, when comparing the properties of chlorine and chloride, it can be concluded that the key difference between chlorine and chloride is that chlorine is a chemical element whereas chloride is a negatively charged ion.

RED = CHLORINATED. GREEN = NON-CHLORINATED. THE CHOICE IS CLEAR. If your facility mandates chlorine-free products throughout the shop, choose GREEN CRC BRAKLEEN Non-Chlorinated for the strongest formula your state allows.

WD40 May Destroy Brake Pads

WD40 is not a cleaner. It will not clean your brake pads because it is essentially an oil and oil should never be applied to a friction surface. Brake pads employ a friction surface so if you sprayed WD40 on them, you would have to replace or clean them.

Don't use acetone for cleaning anything plastic or foam. It will melt it! So yeah, alcohol/metho is the way to go for cleaning brake pads.

Permatex Disc Brake Quiet stops brake squealing by dampening vibration at the caliper/brake pad interface. While providing a tighter fit and allowing for easier disassembly it also protects against corrosion.

Cleaning the brake rotors without removing the vehicle's wheel is somewhat challenging. You can apply a brake cleaner spray on the surface of soapy water and then a quick brushing, followed by cleaning the surface. Also, use a blower or a Daytona brush to blow off the dust from the rotors.

How to Fix Sticking Brakes on Your Car - YouTube

Brake fluid, DOT 3 & 4, is corrosive to seals. It make them swell and eventually disintegrate. The rubber used on the brake seals is resistant to this but eventually it wears them. Other seals are likely corroded by brake fluid.

Non-chlorinated solvent means any dry cleaning solvent that does not contain any compounds with the element chlorine (e.g., Stoddard Solvent, Pure Dry, Green Earth, DF2000, Rynex, etc.).

Does brake cleaner eat plastic?

Brake cleaners damage the plastic materials by targeting the components that bind them together. Initially, the plastic surfaces would appear intact, then, it would turn brittle. After some months, fractures and cracks would be quite visible.

It's safe to use on all of your machine's mechanical parts and will easily remove oil and dirt with a simple spray on and rinse off action. Using the right cleaner for the right job will not only make the job easier but will save you time and money in the long run.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

Allow to evaporate fully. IMPORTANT always test brakes thoroughly after cleaning. If using on electrical equipment, isolate before use and leave switched off for at least 30 minutes, allowing adequate ventilation for evaporation.

The product may be stored at normal ambient temperatures and has a shelf life of not less than 72 months with correct storage.

1: Brake cleaning can be done at any time — during tire rotation, brake inspection, or when you are servicing your tires. 2: Our Berryman Brake Parts Cleaner works on both disc brakes and drum brakes, so no need to buy two separate cleaners!

As mentioned above, ceramic or metallic pads or moisture can cause pads to squeak. This type of squeaking is usually harmless, says Popular Mechanics. But new brake pads can also squeak because of a foreign object, explains Bockman's Auto Care. Twigs, pinecones or rocks may get stuck between the brake pad and rotor.

Use Brake Cleaner to Remove Rust From the Rotors

Put down a tray to catch any runoff, then spray the rotor with brake cleaner. Let the rotor dry, then wipe it with a clean rag (no oil on the rag). If some rust remains, apply more brake cleaner and work the surface with steel wool or a wire brush.

WD40 is not a cleaner. It will not clean your brake pads because it is essentially an oil and oil should never be applied to a friction surface. Brake pads employ a friction surface so if you sprayed WD40 on them, you would have to replace or clean them.

Manufacturers of rotors tend to put a thin layer of grease on the rotors before shipping them out to prevent rust buildup. This layer should be cleaned off before you install the rotors onto the car. Spray the rotor with brake cleaner and wipe it with a clean rag. Make sure to spray both sides.

Brake Cleaning Preparation

The cleaner can be used on brake linings, brake shoes, drums, rotors, caliper units, pads and other areas of the braking mechanism while they're still intact.

How long does it take for brake cleaner to evaporate?

DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

Allow to evaporate fully. IMPORTANT always test brakes thoroughly after cleaning. If using on electrical equipment, isolate before use and leave switched off for at least 30 minutes, allowing adequate ventilation for evaporation.