Solvent Recyclers

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why does certification matter?
SAFETY.

 

NFPA 33 requires solvent recyclers to be approved or listed in accordance to UL2208. Here is the text from NFPA 33 Chapter 10.8 Solvent Distillation Units (Solvent Recyclers): 10.8.2 Equipment. Solvent distillation units shall be approved or shall be listed in accordance with ANSI/UL 2208, Standard for Solvent Distillation Units. [30:7.11.2]

 

The UL2208 Standard was put in place to regulate the design of solvent recyclers (distillation) and ensure safety. Solvent recycler manufacturers can only receive listing to UL 2208 via organizations such as ETL, CSA and UL, which will issue an official Certificate of Compliance document. In addition, the equipment serial/name plate should bear the UL2208 listing.

 

The UL2208 Certification has different categories: UL2208 USA Ex-Proof CLASS 1 DIV 1 Group D which is required for all flammable solvents in INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS and UL2208 (non Ex-Proof) which is applicable for laboratory applications only or non-flammable industrial applications.

 

If a solvent recycler manufacturer cannot supply you with such a document, they are simply not certified and can't meet NFPA 33. To our knowledge, we are not aware of any offshore solvent recycler manufacturer, including Europe, India, China and Asia, that are listed to UL2208 USA Ex-Proof CLASS 1 DIV 1 Group D.

 

In the USA and CANADA a solvent recycler that is only certified to UL2208 without the Ex-Proof CLASS 1 DIV 1 Group D specification, cannot be used for flammable solvent application in any industrial environment, even if they are certified to EUROPEAN ATEX II 2G and EExd standards. Beware of false claims to the contrary from some of our competitors and you can consult your local OSHA and/or UL and/or local electrical inspection authorities for confirmation of these NEC rules.

 

Beware that if you purchase and install a non UL2208 listed recycler, it may be permanently padlocked and shutdown by authorities during an inspection. A solvent recycler system cannot be field certified or listed to UL2208.

Ex-proof construction and certification?
If you will be recycling a flammable solvent, the unit needs to be certified to USA Ex-Proof CLASS 1 DIV 1 GROUP D codes. The USA Ex-Proof codes are different than the EUROPEAN ATEX II 2G and EExd standards.  To our knowledge, the NEC and NFPA do not recognize the European standards for USA installations, as they are several differences in philosophy and construction between these standards. If you are in doubt about Ex-proof requirements in your specific case, we recommend to you consult your local OSHA and/or UL and/or your local electrical inspection authorities. If a manufacturer claims to be or claims to build to USA Ex-Proof CLASS 1 DIV 1 GROUP D, request a copy of their certification. They are a few exception to the Ex-Proof requirements for lab environments and recyclers installed outside.

Is the ECOpure Recycler safe?
Yes. There are many safety devices with multiple redundancies built into the system. The system is CSAus certified to assure safety and listed to meet codes and UL2208 requirements.

Will product quality be maintained (i.e. will the distilled solvent meet or exceed virgin specifications)?
As long as the recycler is operated correctly and according to provided instructions, the quality of the distilled solvent should meet or exceed virgin specifications, and come across with no contaminant-based color.

How do I know what size system should be used?
This is a difficult question, since it relies on many different variables. We would recommend you speak with one of our Specialists to review your operation and work with you choosing the best system.

Why use a Vacuum Assist system?
The use of a vacuum assist system lowers the atmospheric pressure in the cooking chamber and therefore reduces the boiling temperature of the liquid. We typically recommend vacuum assist for certain types of solvents where the boiling point and flammable limit are within certain parameters. Our Specialists can identify if Vacuum Assist is needed in your process. Typical examples were vacuum would be required are: solvents containing Zylene, Photopolymer plate developer solvents, flexo press solvent wash, much heavier than air solvents.

Are their any regulatory issues associated with the Recycler?
No and Yes. Keep in mind that even though the storage of a hazardous waste is regulated; the recycling process is exempt from RCRA regulations; therefore, no permitting is required for the Recycler. You still need to treat the waste under RCRA requirements. There are Fire codes that must be considered when installing any Recycler. Our Specialists can help you with that information.

Are there any codes that must be followed with Solvent Recyclers?
Yes. If the solvents are considered Flammable and/or Combustible, you must follow one of the following depending on what is adopted in your area: NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application of Flammable or Combustible Materials NFPA 70 National Electric Code or International Fire Code

Is the still bottom considered Hazardous Waste?
Yes. As long as the material (liquid and/or solid) was considered hazardous as received. In order to consider your disposal options, you must have the material tested for:

Toxicity

Corrosiveness

Ignitibility

Reactivity

No. If the materials were not considered hazardous as received.

Is there a possibility to create hazardous waste with the use of a solvent recycler?
No, if the materials were not hazardous to start with. The only two products resulting from the recycling process are the recovered solvent and the recovered waste. You are not creating a new product, nor are you treating the solvent.

Is there special expertise required to operate the Recycler?
No. A relatively untrained person can operate the recycler. An operators guide is provided with the unit.

How much time (labor hours per day) must be dedicated to operate the solvent recycler?
As a general rule, you can expect to spend less than a total of ten minutes a day performing the filling process and getting the unit up and running.

How much clearance is required around the unit to allow for ease of operation and/or maintenance?
Very little is required for model SR30 & SR60....approx 6-8" and for model SR120 & SR180 18-24’’ behind the unit for clearance is required.

Are equipment Installation drawings and instructions available?
Yes.

What are the voltage requirements - voltage and full load amperage?
220 Volt 1 Phase 50 or 60 Hz (SR30 & SR60)
Amperage Range: 11 amps SR30 (7.5 Gallon system), 24 amps SR60 (15Gallon system)

For the larger system (SR120 & SR180) they work on 380V, 460V or 575 V please call us for electrical details on these systems.

Do you require any other utilities. i.e. water, Compressed air, etc.?
No, not with our standard products without vacuum.

Options like Vacuum Assist and Fluid Transfer Kits for the SR120 & SR180, require a compressed air supply.

The Nitrocellulose Safety Quench Systems option requires a city water supply (there is no continuous consumption).

How long is the Warranty?
2 Year Limited Warranty.....the longest in the Industry.

Is there maintenance required on the unit?
We recommend an annual tune-up by your local certified technician. Call us. We can help schedule it.

Are there wear components that will need to be replaced during the life of the unit? What parts?
The Seal on the tank lid should be replaced at the annual tune-up along with the Thermal Oil.

What kind of recovery rate can I expect?
When the unit is operating properly, you should be recovering essentially 95-100% of the solvent that is in the waste stream. Losses are typically from evaporation that took place in the cleaning process and/or use of the solvent.

How are the still bottoms removed from the system?
Waste is collected in a special Recycler Bag. It is easily removed.

Are Leasing Options available?
PPCTS does offer various lease options. Please inquire if you are interested.