Effect of Chemical Cleaners on Varnish Removal from Metal Surfaces

Abstract
   Varnish that forms on metal surface due to oil degradation is detrimental to the function of mechanical components. Here, we used a custom testing rig to evaluate the varnish removal characteristics of chemical cleaners under different conditions. The method enables varnish removal from real mechanical components to be directly observed and quantified. Particularly, a series of tests was performed to quantify varnish removal from heat exchanger surfaces, demonstrating the utility of the test method for comparing chemical cleaner performance under application-relevant conditions. The results of this testing contribute to enabling test exchanger plates to have a longer lifespan, proper functionality, and better performance.
   

Biography
   Jose Arturo Morales completed his B.S. degree in mechanical engineering in 2021 from the University of California, Merced. Subsequently, in 2022, Jose continued his career by joining the M.S. program in mechanical engineering at the University of California, Merced. During his graduate studies, Jose worked as a graduate student researcher in the Martini Research Group and conducted experimental research on solid and liquid lubricants performance. His main research project focused on testing and analyzing the potential capabilities of chemical cleaners to remove varnish from metal surfaces. Jose received the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) Northern California Section scholarship in 2023. He also presented his research project in two annual meetings of the STLE conference.