Technical cleanliness
Technical cleanliness describes the control and limitation of particulate and film-like contamination on components and assemblies. The aim is to reduce contamination to such an extent that the function, reliability and service life of a product are not compromised.
Technical cleanliness is particularly relevant for components where even small particles or residues can lead to malfunctions, increased wear or damages. Corresponding requirements are therefore found in particular in the automotive industry, hydraulics, electronics and other technically demanding applications.
Technical cleanliness in cold-formed parts
Technical cleanliness can also be a relevant quality characteristic for cold-formed precision components. During manufacture and in subsequent process steps, for example, particles, processing residues, oils or other contaminants may find their way onto the components.
The requirements for technical cleanliness depend on the component’s intended function and area of application. Among other things, permissible particle sizes, particle quantities, particle types or film-like residues can be defined.
To meet these requirements, tailored cleaning processes and subsequent cleanliness tests can be employed. A residual contamination analysis, for example, can be used to determine which particulate contaminants remain on or within a component after cleaning.
Particularly where high cleanliness requirements apply, it is not only the actual cleaning process that must be considered. Handling, transport, packaging and storage can also be crucial in ensuring that the level of component cleanliness achieved is maintained right through to further processing at the customer’s premises.
Technical cleanliness: Questions and answers
-
What does technical cleanliness mean?
-
Why is technical cleanliness important for components?
-
How is the technical cleanliness of components tested?
-
What is a residual contamination analysis?
-
Which standards apply to technical cleanliness?