How Brulin Cleans Steel Ball Bearings To Reduce Quality Control Rejection Rates 

Cleanliness is crucial to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Our client, a trusted supplier of precision bearings and assemblies serving the aerospace, defense, medical, dental, and high technology markets, approached our dedicated team of parts cleaning advisors with a request to improve their in-process cleaning process for various-sized ball bearings—aiming to achieve cleaner parts and reduce quality control rejections.  

With a commitment to delivering cleaner parts, they sought improvements in their cleaning process. The client’s manufacturing process involved in-process cleaning to remove contaminants such as Houghton Mar-Temp 2565, Houghton Quench K, and Parks Vacuum Quench Oil.  

Our recommended process adjustments, combined with our expertise in cleaning chemistry, led to improved cleaning results and reduced rejection rates during quality control (QC) inspections. 

Our Industrial Parts Cleaning Process Solution 

The client’s existing process utilized 815 QR, one of our heavy-duty immersion and ultrasonic detergents, in a 50-gallon ultrasonic unit.  

Various steel ball bearings were subjected to a 9-minute cleaning cycle at a temperature of 140°F (60°C). Two rinses were performed, each for 5 minutes at the same temperature. The parts were then air-dried. 

Despite their efforts, the client experienced rejection rates during QC inspections, indicating a need for cleaner parts. To address the client’s challenges and enhance their cleaning process, we recommended the following adjustments: 

• Process Optimization: We proposed modifying the process by eliminating the need for two rinses. Instead, we advised transforming the first rinse tank into a second wash tank. This adjustment would streamline the process while maintaining the effectiveness of the cleaning. 
• Chemistry & Concentration: We advised the continued use of 815 QR, ensuring the heavy-duty cleaning power required for removing the contaminants. A concentration of 10% was maintained to achieve optimal results. 
• Time & Temperature: To optimize the cleaning efficacy, we recommended a 9-minute wash for the first cycle and a reduced 5-minute wash for the second cycle, both at a temperature of 140°F (60°C). This adjustment was tailored to the specific needs of the precision ball bearings. 

The Results 

Our team of trusted parts cleaning advisors emerged as the client’s preferred partner thanks to our ability to provide effective cleaning solutions tailored to their specific requirements. The implementation of our recommended process adjustments resulted in cleaner parts and reduced rejection rates during QC inspections.  

By eliminating the second rinse and transforming it into a second wash, the client streamlined their process, saving time and resources. Our expertise in process optimization and chemistry, along with our commitment to customer satisfaction, set us apart from competitors. 

The parts exhibited improved cleanliness, meeting the client’s desired standards. The reduction in rejection rates positively impacted their overall efficiency and productivity. The reduction in rejection rates during QC inspections reflects our team’s commitment to delivering reliable and efficient cleaning solutions. We remain dedicated to supporting this client’s needs, continuously striving for excellence in cleaning processes and exceeding their expectations.