| abstract |
A parts-washing method is described. The method comprises: (a) contacting a part with an aqueous liquid cleaning composition in a contact zone at a temperature of less than 45 degrees C., wherein the aqueous liquid cleaning composition comprises at least one alkoxylate surfactant; (b) passing at least part of the aqueous liquid cleaning composition from the contact zone to a separation housing; (c) separating the aqueous liquid cleaning composition in the separation housing to form an upper oily phase, an intermediate aqueous phase and a lower particulate phase; and (d) withdrawing at least a portion of the intermediate aqueous phase for use as the aqueous liquid cleaning composition in the contact zone. |