Tightened cleaning standards are required for components of assemblies with close operating tolerances such as automotive powertrain components (engines, automatic transmissions, fuel delivery systems and steering assemblies). In these applications loose foreign particles can result in costly repairs or even loss of life as in the case of braking and traction controls systems.

Cleaning is commonly considered as non value adding process; without evaluating the consequences of ignoring component cleaning. A successful cleaning process requires careful selection of both the cleaning chemistry and equipment. Cleaning process is influenced by various factors viz. manufacturing process, cleaning media, surrounding conditions work?piece quality, parts handling, machine technology, testing process (Millipore test), etc.

For this discussion we are referring to precision cleaning as applications where cleanliness specifications limit maximum permissible contamination to a particle size less than 500 micron or weight of less than 10 milligrams per part. These limits are typically applied to new manufactured parts after the final wash prior to testing or assembly.