Sinoright Blog
Trichloroethylene (TCE) — Industrial Solvent & Chemical
Trichloroethylene (TCE, CAS No. 79-01-6) is a colorless, transparent, volatile liquid with a mild, sweet odor reminiscent of chloroform. As a highly versatile chlorinated solvent and critical chemical feedstock, TCE has long been a cornerstone of modern industrial manufacturing, prized for its exceptional solvency, rapid volatility, non-flammability, and material compatibility.
Core Applications
1. Industrial Metal Cleaning & Degreasing
TCE’s primary and most vital application is vapor and cold degreasing across metalworking industries. Its powerful ability to dissolve oils, greases, waxes, and cutting fluids ensures thorough, residue-free cleaning of precision components.
- Automotive: Engine blocks, gears, bearings, and transmission parts
- Aerospace: High-precision turbine blades, hydraulic components, and avionics
- Electronics: Printed circuit boards (PCBs) and delicate electronic components
- General Manufacturing: Surface preparation prior to plating, painting, or coating
2. Chemical Intermediate & Feedstock
TCE is an essential building block for synthesizing high-value industrial chemicals:
- Refrigerants: Key raw material for producing HFC-134a and hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerants with zero ozone depletion potential
- Pharmaceuticals: Intermediate in manufacturing antimalarial drugs and anesthetics
- Agrochemicals: Precursor for pesticides and crop protection agents
- Organic Synthesis: Production of monochloroacetic acid, fluoropolymers, and specialty chemicals
3. Specialty Solvent Uses
Beyond cleaning and synthesis, TCE serves niche but critical roles:
- Food Processing: Extraction solvent for coffee decaffeination and fat purification
- Polymers: Chain transfer agent in PVC production
- Adhesives & Coatings: Solvent for high-performance resins and sealants
Quality & Safety
Our industrial-grade TCE is produced via ethylene oxychlorination for superior purity (≥99.9%) and stability, stabilized to prevent decomposition during storage and use. While TCE offers unmatched performance, strict safety protocols are mandatory:
- Closed systems and local exhaust ventilation
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) including respirators and chemical-resistant gear
- Compliance with global environmental and occupational health regulations
Why Choose Our TCE?
- Consistent High Purity: Minimizes residues and ensures process reliability
- Optimized Stabilization: Extended shelf life and material safety
- Technical Support: Custom formulations and application expertise
- Sustainable Supply: Responsible manufacturing and compliance with global standards
Trichloroethylene remains an indispensable industrial workhorse—where precision cleaning and chemical synthesis demand uncompromising performance.
