Everything manufacturers need to know about vapor degreasing — how it works, how to evaluate solvents, cost vs. aqueous cleaning, industry requirements, EPA compliance, and how to change solvents in existing equipment.
Compare high-performance TCE alternatives for aerospace and automotive manufacturing. Learn how to transition solvents and explore Enviro Tech’s engineered replacements.
Learn how to replace PERC safely and efficiently. Explore alternative solvents, technical criteria, and Enviro Tech solutions to future-proof industrial cleaning.
Learn how to replace PERC safely and efficiently. Explore alternative solvents, technical criteria, and Enviro Tech solutions to future-proof industrial cleaning.
Precision parts manufacturing demands effective materials selection, minute attention to design details, precise tools and machines, and highly skilled labor. But even a microscopic speck or smudge of grease, oil or dirt on a part can render all of the above useless. For precision parts to fit together to the correct tolerances and for welds to hold, parts must be impeccably cleaned and free of all traces of contamination. Yet, operational efficiency also must be considered. The ideal cleaning system for parts will be both effective and economical.
Learn more about the many benefits of utilizing vapor degreasing technology for your parts cleaning!
Overview
In December 2022, 3M announced its decision to exit the manufacturing of all per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including the widely used Novec™ product line. This decision marks a pivotal shift in the industrial and environmental landscape as 3M commits to phasing out PFAS production completely by the end of 2025.
The implications are far-reaching, impacting a wide range of industries that have depended on Novec fluids for high-performance cleaning, thermal management, and fire suppression applications. This transition creates an immediate need for action among manufacturers who rely on these materials.
Key Dates and Deadlines
For organizations currently using Novec products, the most critical deadline is March 31, 2025 — the final date to place new orders. After this date, 3M will no longer accept orders for Novec fluids, although limited fulfillment may continue through December 31, 2025, depending on inventory.
Affected Products
The discontinuation encompasses the full suite of Novec engineered fluids, including:
Replacement Tip:
For users of Novec 7100, 7200, and 7300, Enviro Tech International offers direct HFE-based replacements, such as the ETI 7100, 7200, and 7300, designed for full chemical and performance compatibility with existing systems—minimizing the need for equipment changes or requalification.
Industries Affected
The phase-out of Novec products will create ripple effects across sectors that have long relied on its unique properties:
Next Steps
To stay ahead of the curve, organizations should:
Conclusion
The discontinuation of 3M’s Novec line represents a major industry inflection point. The last order date deadline has passed (March 31, 2025) and identifying a replacement for the discontinued chemistry is absolutely paramount for businesses wanting to avoid downtime.
Enviro Tech International stands ready with both drop-in and next-generation solutions to help customers navigate this transition smoothly ensuring performance, safety, and environmental compliance well beyond 2025.
*Formulated to include no PFAS by any current or anticipated definition domestically or internationally