Attention! Stop Using these Chemicals for Aerospace Maintenance

A well-maintained airplane indicates that it will function at its best with minimum wear and tear. This is why proper cleaning and maintenance of an aircraft is a must. However, aircrafts need some special cleaning chemicals. Our usual household cleaning products may not always work for deep cleaning of aircrafts, in fact, they might cause damage to it.

Choosing the right chemicals for cleaning an aeroplane can be a daunting task as there are plenty of chemicals that might create an impression of cleaning an aeroplane but in reality harm it or its components. Worry not! This blog will help you know which chemicals should be avoided in aircraft cleaning and maintenance activities.

1. Methyl Ethyl Ketone

If used carefully, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) might not harm an aeroplane. However, using MEK as a reliable solution for cleaning aircrafts has been greatly disparaged in the recent years due to its awfully hazardous impact on the health of cleaning agents and anyone that comes in its contact. Its effects have been so adverse that the members of the UAW (International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America) have declared that frequent usage of methyl ethyl ketone has resulted in flu-like symptoms, chronic headaches, asthma, general malaise, giddiness, and weakness. There are several other competent options available in the market, hence, one must never use such perilous chemicals for cleaning airplanes.

2. Window Cleansers
An aeroplane’s window frames are one of the prime areas that need timely cleaning. It is important that windows offer a clear view out of it, hence, good care is essential to keep them clean. Although suitable for household windows, window cleansers having ammonia and similar chemicals are not ideal for airplanes as they might harm an aircraft’s windscreen by forming miniscule cracks on its surface. Therefore, use of such products should be strictly avoided for cleaning aeroplane window frames.

3. Dishwashing Liquid
Even though a dishwashing liquid does wonders for greasy pans and plates, it might not be suitable for cleaning aircrafts. It might leave a film-like or soapy deposits on aeroplane surface. As a dishwashing liquid contains anti-bacterial agents and fragrances, it is meant for getting rid of messy and greasy plates and not for an airplane.

4. Chlorine-based Bleaches
You might have seen chlorine bleach widely used for cleaning toilets and bathrooms, however, it can trigger a cleaning nightmare if used in the cleaning of an aircraft’s bathrooms and restrooms. The key problem in using chlorine bleach is the impairment it causes to seals and the vacuum system by fading out the protecting layer(s) of these parts. In addition, if chlorine bleach mistakenly mixes with the "blue juice" of the lavatory, the cabin is likely to get filled with toxic fumes and mix two oxidizing agents, which can be awfully hazardous.

5. Woodcare Products
Solutions that are used in the maintenance of wooden items can, in fact, exhibit unreliable or possibly even meaningless results to the entire cleaning process if they are used for cleaning airplanes. Despite the fact that these products are deliberated as a best solution to give a glossy look to wooden items, they can be a wrong maintenance product for aircraft modules. These products contain a chemical called, dimethicone, which is known as a “film former”. These formers along with other additives can leave residues of a waxy layers that can mount up and trap grime and greases under them with time. Furthermore, if these deposits are not washed away, they can give a blurry appearance to the airplane’s paint.

The Final Thought
 
The global aerospace maintenance chemical market has progressed substantially in the recent years. Today, numerous aircraft-safe cleaning and maintenance products are accessible in the market. As a result, it is greatly advisable to use such harmless products that are specially meant for aircrafts and streamline the aircraft cleaning process.

About the Author(s)

Princy A. J

Princy holds a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the prestigious Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. University at Chennai, India. After a successful academic record, she pursued her passion for writing. A thorough professional and enthusiastic writer, she enjoys writing on various categories and advancements in the global industries. She plays an instrumental role in writing about current updates, news, blogs, and trends.