Cost-Effective Parts Washing: Recycle Your Mineral Spirits for Maximum Savings

Why Mineral Spirits Are Used in Parts Washing

Mineral spirits are a petroleum-based solvent used widely in manufacturing and maintenance.
They’re ideal for cleaning:

• Grease and oil from metal parts
• Paint and ink residues
• Cutting fluids and machining debris

Industries like automotive, aerospace, and metalworking rely on mineral spirits for parts washing stations and degreasing systems because they’re effective and relatively safe compared to harsher solvents.

The Hidden Cost of Solvent Waste 

After cleaning, mineral spirits become contaminated with oils, metal particles, and other residues.
Most companies either:

• Pay for hazardous waste disposal
• Buy new solvent regularly

This leads to high operating costs and environmental concerns. According to the EPA, solvent waste is a major contributor to industrial hazardous waste streams.

The Smart Solution: Solvent Recycling 

Instead of disposing of used mineral spirits, manufacturers can recycle them on-site. Recycling removes contaminants and restores the solvent for reuse.

Benefits of recycling mineral spirits:

• Cut solvent purchase costs by up to 95%
• Reduce hazardous waste disposal fees
• Improve workplace safety
• Support sustainability goals

Maratek’s Solvent Recycling Systems

Maratek is a leader in solvent recovery technology. Our systems help manufacturers reclaim and reuse solvents like mineral spirits, acetone, and IPA.

Our flagship recycling systems include:

• Solvent Saver Custom (SSC)
  Designed for high-volume operations. Automatically separates contaminants and returns clean solvent.
• Batch Premium Units
  Ideal for smaller facilities. Compact, easy to use, and cost-effective.
• Engineered-to-Order Systems
  Custom-built for unique production lines and cleaning processes.

Explore Maratek’s full range of solvent recycling systems 

Real-World Impact: Save Thousands Every Year

Let’s say a facility uses 1,000 liters of mineral spirits per month. Without recycling, they spend thousands on new solvents and disposal. With a Maratek SSC unit, they can recycle up to 95% of money, saving money and reducing waste.

Safety Tips for Handling Mineral Spirits

Whether cleaning or recycling, safety is key. Follow these best practices:

• Use in well-ventilated areas
• Wear gloves and eye protection
• Store in fire-rated containers
• Keep away from heat and sparks

For more safety guidance, download Solvents & Petroleum Service Mineral Spirits Safety Data Sheet (PDF) 

Maratek’s systems include explosion-proof designs, automated controls, and customizable safety features to protect your team and facility.

FAQ: Mineral Spirits & Solvent Recycling

Q: Can mineral spirits be recycled safely?
A: Yes. Maratek systems are designed to safely reclaim and purify mineral spirits for reuse.

Q: How much can I save by recycling solvents?
A: Many companies reduce solvent costs by up to 95% and cut disposal fees significantly.

Q: Is solvent recycling environmentally friendly?
A: Absolutely. Recycling reduces hazardous waste and supports cleaner manufacturing practices.

Q: What industries benefit most from solvent recycling?
A: Automotive, aerospace, metalworking, printing, and any industry using parts washing systems.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Mineral spirits are essential for industrial cleaning, but buying and disposing of them can be costly. With Maratek’s solvent recycling systems, manufacturers can reuse their solvent, cut costs, and reduce waste—all while improving safety and sustainability.

If your facility uses mineral spirits, it’s time to explore recycling. Contact Maratek to learn how we can help you save.