Graco AquaMax-E 3050 - Manual (Page 13)

13 1) Options / model variants
Original instructions
English
Techniques
Soaking
Detergent and Foam
Temperature
Mechanical Effect
High Water Flow or High
Pressure
5 Applications and methods
Efficient high pressure cleaning is achieved by following a few guide-
lines, combined with your own personal experience of specific clean-
ing tasks. Accessories and detergents, when correctly chosen, can
increase the efficiency of your pressure washer. Here is some basic
information about cleaning.
Encrusted or thick layers of dirt can be loosened or softened up by a
period of soaking. This is for example an ideal method within agricul-
ture – for example, within pig sties. The ideal soaking method can be
achieved via use of foam or simple alkaline detergent. Let the product
lie on the dirty surfaces for around 30 minutes before pressure wash-
ing. The result will be a much quicker high pressure cleaning process.
Foam or detergent should be applied onto dry surfaces so that the
chemical product is in direct contact with the dirt. Detergents are ap-
plied from bottom to top, for example on a car bodywork, in order to
avoid “super clean” areas, where the detergent collects in higher con-
centration and streams downwards. Let the detergent work for several
minutes before rinsing before rinsing but never let it dry on the surface
being cleaned.
Detergents are more effective at higher temperatures. Greases, oils
and fats can be broken down more easily at higher temperatures also.
Proteins can be cleaned at temperatures of around 60°C. Oils, traffic
film around 70°C, and grease can be cleaned at 80°C - 90° C.
In order to break down tough layers of dirt, additional mechanical effect
may be required. Special lances and rotary or wash brushes offer this
supplementary effect that cuts through dirt.
High pressure is not always the best solution and high pressure may
damage surfaces. The cleaning effect also depends upon water flow.
Pressure levels of around 100 bar may be sufficient for vehicle cleaning
(in association with hot water). Higher flow levels give the possibility to
rinse and flush away large amounts of dirt easily.