Applications And Methods; Techniques - Nilfisk-ALTO MC 5M Operating Instructions Manual

5 Applications and methods

5.1

Techniques

5.1.1 Soaking
5.1.2 Detergent and Foam
5.1.3 Temperature
5.1.4 Mechanical Effect
5.1.5 High Water Flow or
High Pressure
Options / model variants
1)
Original instructions
Efficient high pressure cleaning is achieved by following a few
guidelines, combined with your own personal experience of specific
cleaning tasks. Accessories and detergents, when correctly chosen,
can increase the efficiency of your pressure washer. Here is some
basic information about cleaning.
Encrusted or thick layers of dirt can be loosened or softened up by
a period of soaking. This is for example an ideal method within agri-
culture – for example, within pig sties. The ideal soaking method can
be achieved via use of foam or simple alkaline detergent. Let the
product lie on the dirty surfaces for around 10 - 30 minutes before
pressure washing. The result will be a much quicker high pressure
cleaning process.
Foam or detergent should be applied onto dry surfaces so that the
chemical product is in direct contact with the dirt. Detergents are
applied from bottom to top, for example on a car bodywork, in order
to avoid "super clean" areas, where the detergent collects in higher
concentration and streams downwards. Let the detergent work for
several minutes before rinsing but never let it dry on the surface
being cleaned.
Detergents are more effective at higher temperatures. Greases, oils
and fats can be broken down more easily at higher temperatures
also. Proteins can be cleaned at temperatures of around 60°C. Oils,
traffic film around 70°C, and grease can be cleaned at 80°C - 90° C.
In order to break down tough layers of dirt, additional mechanical
effect may be required. Special lances and rotary or wash brushes
offer this supplementary effect that cuts through dirt.
High pressure is not always the best solution and high pressure may
damage surfaces. The cleaning effect also depends upon water
flow. Pressure levels of around 100 bar may be sufficient for vehicle
cleaning (in association with hot water). Higher flow levels give the
possibility to rinse and flush away large amounts of dirt easily.
MC 5M, MC 6P, MC 7P
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