ECAR Fact Sheet for Indiana
Solvent Cleaning

Regulations
Self-Audit Checklist
Best Management Practices
Contacts
Related ECAR Fact Sheets
Other Relevant Resources

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The following fact sheet was prepared by the ECAR Center staff. Once prepared, each ECAR Center fact sheet undergoes a review process with the applicable state environmental agency(ies). You can check on the status of the review process here. Please read the disclaimer on the status page. While we have tried to present a summary of the essential information on this topic, you should be aware that other items, such as local regulations, may apply to you.

What You Need to Know

Various methods are used to clean oil and grease from parts before sale. This fact sheet covers the environmental issues associated with solvent cleaning methods such as parts washers containing mineral spirits. Aqueous cleaning (e.g., pressure washers, enclosed spray washers, steam cleaning) is covered under a separate fact sheet. Used solvents are often the largest hazardous waste stream created by automotive recyclers. Used solvents can be harmful to workers and the environment because they are toxic and they emit dangerous vapors. In addition, solvent parts washers use cleaning solutions that eventually become spent and must be disposed of.

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has prepared a guidance document to help auto recyclers manage solvents. Much of that information is included in this fact sheet. You can access the link to IDEM' s Compliance Manual for Auto Salvage Facilities under Other Relevant Resources.

Regulations

New/virgin petroleum-based solvents are classified according to their flash point. The term “flash point” refers to the temperature at which a material could ignite if exposed to a spark. Materials with a low flash point (100-140°F) will ignite more easily than materials with a higher flash point (140-200°F.)

Low-Flash Solvents (100-140°F) Petroleum-based solvents with a flash point from 100-140°F are also referred to as “low-flash solvents.” This type of solvent will be an ignitable hazardous waste and, possibly, a toxic hazardous waste when disposed.

High-Flash Solvents (140-200°F) Petroleum-based solvents with a flash point from 140-200°F are also referred to as “high-flash solvents.” Used high-flash solvent is not considered to be an ignitable hazardous waste unless it is contaminated and its flash point drops below 140°F. Be aware that many high-flash solvents have a flash point that is only slightly above the 140°F threshold for this group of solvents. If the facility uses pre-cleaners that contain flammable materials, the used high-flash solvent may become a low-flash solvent (i.e., an ignitable hazardous waste) that is subject to more stringent regulations. In addition to potentially being an ignitable hazardous waste, a used high-flash solvent may also be a toxic hazardous waste if contaminated to the extent that it exhibits hazardous waste characteristics. If a facility's pre-cleaners contain any chemicals that are on any of the hazardous waste lists, the used solvent will automatically be a hazardous waste.

Chlorinated solvents. Using chlorinated solvents can lead to significant compliance work for a facility. They are almost certainly hazardous wastes. Chlorinated solvents include the following:

• chlorobenzene (monochlorobenzene or benzene chloride)
• trichloroethylene (trichloroethane, ethinyl trichloride)
• chlorinated fluorocarbons
• methylene chloride (dichloromethane, methylene dichloride, methylene bichloride)
• tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene, ethylene tetrachloride, tetrachlorethylene)
• 1,1,1-trichloroethane (methyl chloroform, chlorothene)

Listed below are the requirements that must be followed when managing and disposing of petroleum-based solvents.

If a facility uses petroleum-based solvents in immersion cleaning machines (solvent sinks) or in a remote reservoir cleaning machine (part sprayer), it must:

• keep the solvent tank covered when not in use to prevent evaporation.
• place a drain shelf in the basin of the parts washer. This shelf allows solvent to drain back into the solvent tank.
• drain all parts for at least fifteen (15) seconds or until the part is no longer dripping.
• store used solvent to be disposed in tightly covered or closed containers.

users of solvents with a vapor pressure at or below two millimeters of mercury (2.0 mm Hg) must also keep a record of each purchase, including the following information:

• Name and address of the solvent supplier
• Date of purchase, the type of solvent
• Volume of each unit
• Total volume of the solvent; and
• Vapor pressure of the solvent

Solvents Used by Facilities in Lake, Porter, Clark and Floyd Counties

A 1998 air regulation restricts the type of parts washing solvent that may be used in these four counties. Solvents must have a vapor pressure not to exceed one millimeter of mercury (1.0 mm Hg). This restriction applies when solvent is sold to an individual or business in amounts greater than five (5) gallons during any seven (7) consecutive business days. Some vendors sell solvents that meet the new vapor pressure limit. Check the MSDS to ensure that the solvent meets this vapor pressure limit.

If a facility is currently using a solvent of this type, the only additional requirement is to keep records of the purchases. End users of these lower vapor pressure solvents must also keep a record of each purchase, including the following information:

• Name and address of the solvent supplier
• Date of purchase, the type of solvent
• Volume of each unit
• Total volume of the solvent; and
• Vapor pressure of the solvent

Links to the Regulations. Use the following links to view the regulations pertaining to solvent cleaning processes.

Federal EPA Standards Applicable to Generators of Hazardous Waste

Self-Audit Checklist

When an inspector comes to your facility, there are certain things he or she checks to see if you are in compliance with environmental regulations. It makes good sense for you to perform a "self-audit" and catch and correct problems before they result in penalties. Also, there are some compliance incentives associated with self-audits (see Audit Policy Page).

Use the following list to audit your solvent cleaning operations.

1. Are spent solvents stored in drums, tanks or other containers that are in good condition? Open containers, and rusting or leaking containers cannot be used for spent solvent storage.
2. Are solvent storage containers and tanks properly labeled? All used antifreeze storage containers must be labeled "hazardous waste."
3. Is the area around the solvent storage containers free of releases? Releases must be stopped and the released material cleaned up and managed properly.
4. Is spent solvent transported to a recovery facility by a certified transporter? Check your records and verify that all shipments of spent solvent were removed from your property by a state certified transporter.

Best Management Practices (BMPs)

Most regulations tell you what you have to do to be in compliance, but they don’t explain how to do it. That’s where "best management practices" come into play. BMPs are proven methods that help you to get into compliance and stay there. The following BMPs are recommended for solvent cleaning.

• Wipe off parts with a rag or wire brush before soaking in parts washer.
• Do not clean parts unnecessarily.
• Reduce the quantity of solvent used by implementing a two-stage cleaning system. The first stage should clean the dirtiest parts. The second stage uses cleaner solvent for final cleaning and rinsing. When the cleaning solution in the second stage is no longer effective, it can then be used to replace the solvent in the first stage. Fresh solvent is then used to replace the second stage.
• Parts washers should have a recirculating feature with built-in filtration to continuously remove dirt and contaminants. This will extend the life of the solvent.
• Drip racks or trays can help increase drainage from parts to minimize solvent loss.
• When not in use, solvent streams should be turned off and lids on parts washers should be kept closed to reduce evaporative solvent loss.
• Do not dispose of used solvent on the ground or in a storm drain
• Do not combine spent solvent with used oil.
• Contract with a solvent management company to supply and recycle solvent.
• Keep accurate records of solvent, wash water, sludge processing and disposal for 3 years.

Contacts

1. For more information, contact the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) at 800-451-6027 or 317-232-8603.
2. Report spills and environmental emergencies immediately to IDEM by telephone at 1-888-233-7745.
3. Submit a pollution complaint online through the IDEM Pollution Complaints Clearinghouse.

Related ECAR Fact Sheets

1. Hazardous Waste
2. Aqueous Cleaning

Other Relevant Resources

1. Indiana Auto Salvage Compliance Manual

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