How do I reduce vapor emission from parts-washmachines? Water and cleaner in air creating poor air quality.?

Question

I believe the route that I want to go is a hood intake over the machine that draws air up into a condenser of sorts, or something along those lines. I do not believe the cleaner dissolved in the water, and thus in the air, is worth recovering at this point.

Answer 1

There are many techniques to improve the efficiency of exhaust hoods.  But you might also consider a less volatile, toxic, or better smelling solvent.  The best general advice is to use a slot along he back edge of the tank and a similar slot at the front supplying some "push" air.  The supplier of the parts washer or the proprietary cleaner ought to be able to help you, especially if you suggest you are considering a different solvent.  Also consider that the lower the temperature the less volatile it will be.  This may well slow down the cleaning but again another solvent might work OK at the lower temperature.  Another approach is to use the floating plastic balls on the surface which can greatly reduce the evaporation but they can be a pain to deal with depending on your parts and methods.