In modern manufacturing environments, cleaning products are essential for maintaining machinery and ensuring smooth operations. However, many of the sprays and solvents commonly used in production plants are aggressive, solvent-based formulas that carry hazard labels and pose risks not only to equipment but also to the health and safety of operators.
The hidden costs of aggressive cleaners
While these powerful cleaners may seem effective at removing stubborn residues, they can cause significant damage over time. Harsh chemicals can degrade machine components, accelerate wear, and even react negatively with adhesives and primers. More critically, they can endanger workers — especially those who lack proper training in handling hazardous substances.
So why are aggressive cleaners still so prevalent? Often, it comes down to a focus on immediate results. Operators may prioritise removing dirt and hardened residues over long-term safety and sustainability. In many cases, the root cause is a lack of consistent cleaning and maintenance routines. When machines and adhesive systems are not cleaned regularly, residues harden and become difficult to remove — leading to the use of stronger, riskier chemicals and even manual scraping tools, which increase the risk of injury and equipment damage.
VOC emissions and environmental impact
Beyond the workplace, solvent-based cleaners contribute significantly to VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, which are harmful to both the environment and human health. As industries face increasing pressure to adopt greener practices, the need for safer, more sustainable cleaning solutions has never been greater.
TAKA’s commitment to safer, greener cleaning
TAKA has responded to this challenge by developing a range of specialised cleaning products designed for lamination and hot melt glue systems. These include Cleaner WPR, Roll Cleaner 2, Cleaner Blu, and the latest innovation—Cleaner Green.
Cleaner green – sustainable breakthrough
Cleaner Green represents the next generation of TAKA’s cleaning solutions. Building on the success of Cleaner Blu, this new formula is composed of over 50% reused materials, making it a truly eco-conscious choice. It is entirely free of hazardous substances, ensuring a safer working environment while also contributing to waste reduction and resource conservation.
Cleaner Green is available in several convenient formats:
- Granules for precise dosing in edgebanding machines
- Blocks for melting inside slot nozzle melters
- Small blocks for sealing glue heads before extended stops (e.g., overnight or weekend shutdowns), preventing adhesive cross-linking due to air exposure
Easy, effective cleaning routines
Using Cleaner Green is simple and efficient. The process mirrors that of Cleaner Blu: insert the block into the melter and flush it through the system. This routine is especially recommended before long production halts—such as holidays or maintenance periods—but regular use can prevent glue buildup that clogs systems and reduces adhesive flow. Clogged systems can lead to microscopic glue particles forming beneath decorative foils, compromising product quality.
Importantly, cleaning should begin while the system is still relatively clean. Even new systems can accumulate cured glue due to frequent start-stop cycles. Over time, this buildup affects pumps, filters, and heated hoses. Attempting to clean a heavily contaminated system may only dislodge part of the residue, leaving behind hardened glue that continues to cause issues.
Learn more
TAKA provides a series of video tutorials on YouTube to guide users through the cleaning process step-by-step. These resources make it easy for operators to adopt safer, more sustainable cleaning practices that protect both their health and the longevity of their equipment.
