When it comes to cleaning parts, there are many different approaches.
You can fill a cleaning tray like the one in the image with kerosene and scrub away, or use parts cleaner—there are various washing methods.
Since it’s basically similar to the kitchen sink we use every day, you want to clean in a good environment.
Having a cleaning station for parts is extremely convenient.
While it does require some installation space, it’s as important and efficient as having running water in your kitchen.
For example, if you go camping and cook, you’ll realize how important running water is. You’ll be amazed at how convenient it is to wash things quickly.
Cleaning stations come in various types, including commercial models and rentals.
Commercial cleaning stations are sold on Amazon and other sites, so they’re easy to get.
The biggest drawback is changing the wash fluid. If you’re using a link-type cleaning station like the one above, you need to establish a solid fluid replacement schedule, or you might end up making parts dirtier instead of cleaning them.
Plus, there’s a fire hazard with regular kerosene. And drying after cleaning takes a very long time.
Pros
• Inexpensive
Cons
• Wash fluid is kerosene (other options possible)
• Slow drying
• Managing and replacing wash fluid is tedious
The cost varies depending on the contract, so it’s best to contact them directly.
They also offer a free trial service, so it’s worth experiencing it firsthand.
By the way, we use the Model 30.
Pros
• The wash fluid dries quickly—it dries instantly with a little air, and even without it, drying starts right away.
• Hard to ignite—it only catches fire if you hold a burner to it for a bit, so it’s very safe.
• Staff come out at fluid replacement time and handle all the fluid changes for you. It’s always clean, and the fluid gets recycled, so it’s eco-friendly.
• The cleaning station pump output is excellent—commercial cleaning stations have really weak pressure and just seem to wet things. But this station pumps out generously, so it’s very efficient.
Cons
• Poor cost-effectiveness if you don’t do much cleaning
If you’re getting by fine with parts cleaner, the price point might feel a bit high.
I once visited a factory tour at a place that specializes in engines, and they had three cleaning stations (lower, middle, upper). They also had a cleaning machine that sprays high-temperature wash fluid while rotating at low speed—serious operations are really impressive.
If you’re currently using a commercial cleaning station and feeling inconvenienced, I think it’s worth trying the free test (*’ω’*)
