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Steam Cleaning: Revolutionizing Tractor Restoration Process

2024-12-18

If you've embarked on any tractor restoration journey, you've likely encountered the use of power washers or pressure washers at car washes. If the tractor was burdened with a significant amount of grease buildup, you might even have resorted to using a can of grease remover or oven cleaner to aid in dissolving the accumulation before power washing. But what if there existed a more efficient way to handle dirt and grime throughout the restoration process? Jim Deardorff, the owner of Superior Coatings, a sand blasting and painting business in Chillicothe, Missouri, firmly believes that steam cleaning stands out as an excellent option for removing years of dirt and grease buildup and preparing metal surfaces for primer and paint. He even views steam cleaning as a highly suitable solution when cleaning a tractor after a show before returning it to the shed.

Unleash the Power of Steam Cleaning in Tractor Restoration

Benefits of Steam Cleaning Before Tractor Restoration

Steam cleaning offers a multitude of advantages before commencing tractor restoration. Firstly, it provides a more thorough cleaning compared to traditional cold-water power washing. Water heated in a steam cleaner reaches temperatures up to 325°F, yet doesn't boil due to the sealed chamber. This high-temperature water, when released through a steam nozzle and coming into contact with normal atmospheric pressure, instantly expands into millions of tiny water droplets, possessing the highest concentration of cleaning energy. As a result, it becomes significantly easier to remove all traces of grease, oil, hydraulic fluid, etc., laying a solid foundation for the subsequent painting process.

Another benefit is the reduction in water usage. The water flow through a steam cleaner is approximately half that of a hot-water washer. This not only helps in conserving water but also contributes to more efficient cleaning operations. Additionally, steam cleaning reduces or eliminates the need for chemical detergents, minimizing environmental impact and potential health hazards associated with chemical usage.

Advantages of Steam Cleaning During Tractor Restoration

During the restoration process, steam cleaning shines in removing invisible contaminants known as soluble salts. These salts, which are industrial waste products including chlorides, sulfates, and nitrates, contribute to acid rain pollution and accelerate corrosion. Steam cleaning effectively removes these salts by using the unique properties of steam. When soluble salts combine with moisture, they produce corrosive acids. However, steam cleaning disrupts this process by removing the moisture and salts, thereby extending the life of applied coatings, whether they are factory-applied or added by collectors.

Moreover, steam cleaning is gentle on paints, parts, and exposed electronics. It doesn't cause any damage to these components, ensuring the integrity of the tractor during the restoration process. This is a crucial aspect as it allows for a more precise and careful restoration without the risk of accidental damage.

Drawbacks and Considerations of Steam Cleaning

While steam cleaning offers numerous benefits, it does have some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is that it is a slower process compared to cold- or hot-water power washing. The steam cleaner uses the expansion of steam to accelerate water droplets to a high velocity. However, as the distance between the nozzle and the surface to be cleaned increases, the temperature and velocity of the water/steam mixture drop quickly, resulting in a longer cleaning time despite its superior cleaning ability.

The use of soap chemicals during steam cleaning can boost the cleaning speed. As temperatures increase, soaps become more aggressive, enhancing the cleaning action. This is an important factor to consider when choosing the appropriate cleaning method for specific restoration tasks.

Cost Considerations of Steam Cleaning

The cost of a steam cleaner is another aspect to take into account. Industrial units can be quite expensive, with prices running into several thousand dollars. However, smaller units that produce around 75 to 85 psi can be purchased for around $1,000. It is essential to ensure that the unit is designed for industrial use rather than household cleaning, as industrial-grade steam cleaners offer better performance and durability.

Some of the most well-known steam cleaner manufacturers or distributors include Jenny, Sioux, Vapor Clean, Northern Tool + Equipment, and Therma-Kleen. A few of the higher-priced units even combine steam and hot-water pressure washing capabilities, providing even more versatility in cleaning applications. Many of the more expensive units also come in electric- or propane-powered versions, offering flexibility based on the user's needs.

In conclusion, steam cleaning presents a compelling option for tractor restoration. Despite its slower speed and higher cost compared to some other cleaning methods, its ability to remove stubborn dirt, grease, and invisible contaminants makes it a valuable tool in the restoration process. Whether you're a professional restorationist or a hobbyist, considering steam cleaning can lead to better results and a more durable restoration.