| abstract |
An alkaline cleaner, cleaning solutions formed therefrom, and processes for cleaning ferrous-based metal surfaces. The compositions and processes of the invention are especially useful in removing contaminants from the surfaces of drawn and ironed black plate steel containers. The cleaner includes: (a) from about 20 to about 70% by weight of an alkali metal metasilicate or orthosilicate, or a combination thereof; (b) from 0 to about 45% by weight of an alkali metal carbonate; (c) from about 5 to about 30% by weight of an alkali metal phosphate; (d) from about 2 to about 15% by weight of a surfactant such as nonylphenoxy-(polyethoxy) ethanol; and (e) from about 2 to about 20% by weight of a polyethoxy secondary alcohol. |