Henkel has recently developed an innovative low temperature cleaner for aluminium beverage cans that are set to be made available worldwide this year. While this innovation developed by Henkel has been utilizing natural gas, it has also been able to help reduce carbon emissions by 38%.
The Bonderite C-IC 72000 series operates at a lower temperature of 43°C as compared to the normal temperature of 60°C offered by conventional cleaners. While the results are set to differ from plant to plant, manufacturers would be able to reduce their energy consumption drastically.
“Our initial line tests show a 32% reduction in natural gas consumption at the plant from turning off one boiler; additionally, a 5% to 20% reduction in water was achieved during recent trials,” states Fabio Portelinha, Technical Customer Service Manager at Henkel Adhesive Technologies. Moreover, evaporative losses are reportedly cut down by lowering the temperature at which the cleaning bath operates which also hopes to provide employees with a more comfortable working environment. Besides, the lifetime of the steel washer and parts can be expected to maintain a longer lifespan in a less corrosive environment.
Further, the cleaner offers benefits in terms of water and maintenance. The cleaner generates 75% lesser foam as compared to standard cleaners in the laboratory studies carried out by Henkel. There is very little carry-over of foam into the downstream stages during the cleaning process, which further reduces residue during rinse cycles, helping the rinse stages stay presumably cleaner.
The Bonderite C-IC 72000 series that is being made available in single-pack formulations with a combined cleaner and etchant for a range of activity levels as well as market needs, also includes traditional two-pack systems that utilize separate etchant additions.
“The lower temperature product provides very good cleaning performance and has an excellent sustainability contribution,” states Mireia Martinez, Head of Innovation and Marketing & Strategy for Metal at Henkel Adhesive Technologies. “Bonderite C-IC 72000 series cleaner efficiently removes lubricants from the forming process. Combined with the reduction of natural gas, reduced carbon footprint and water reduction, this innovative cleaner contributes to greater sustainability throughout the can-making process.”
Henkel’s low temperature cleaner technology is already available in the LATAM region and is expected to be introduced in all the other regions globally during 2023.
