CNC MACHINE CLEANING & DEGREASING
Qualitek Engineering - Llanelli, South Wales, SA14
Client's Challenge
Qualitek Engineering contacted APT ICC to carry out specialist CNC machine cleaning and industrial degreasing ahead of relocating a critical piece of production equipment within their facility.
Through regular operation, the CNC machine had accumulated swarf, oil, grease, and coolant contamination both internally and externally. Prior to relocation, it was essential that the machine was fully cleaned to protect
sensitive components during movement, maintain performance, and ensure a clean and safe working environment.
The client required a contractor experienced in cleaning complex engineering machinery without damaging precision mechanical or electrical systems.
Assessment & Planning
APT ICC met with the client on site to review the CNC machine and surrounding work area and assess contamination levels, access requirements, and machine configuration.
The assessment focused on identifying areas of heavy swarf and grease build-up, determining safe access to internal components, and selecting degreasers suitable for use on precision engineering equipment. The cleaning sequence was planned to align with the client’s relocation programme while maintaining safe working practices within the live facility.
The proposed method and expected outcome were agreed with the client prior to works commencing.
Methodology
APT ICC delivered the CNC machine cleaning using a structured, step-by-step process designed for precision engineering environments.
The works were carried out as follows:
1. Initial inspection to confirm contamination levels and access points.
2. External cleaning and degreasing of the CNC machine and surrounding floor and wall areas.
3. Manual removal of accumulated swarf from internal machine components using specialist hand tools.
4. Drain-down and steam cleaning of coolant tanks to remove sludge and residues.
5. Detailed wipe-down and final inspection to confirm cleanliness and readiness for relocation.
This approach ensured both internal and external elements of the machine were fully decontaminated without risk to components.
Site Access & Logistics
Equipment
• Specialist industrial cleaning tools
• Hand tools for swarf removal
• Steam cleaning equipment
Chemicals
• Citracleanse – aqueous industrial
degreaser for machinery and surfaces
• Ultramax 2020 – heavy-duty industrial cleaner and degreaser
Both products are APT in-house formulations selected for safe use within engineering
environments.
The Results
• CNC machine fully cleaned and degreased internally and externally
• Swarf, oil, grease, and coolant contamination removed
• Coolant tanks drained and steam cleaned
• Machinery prepared and safe for relocation
• Cleaner, safer working environment achieved
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