Weld cleaning fluid

Abstract

The invention relates to a weld cleaning fluid, and method of cleaning weld or discolouration especially on stainless steel. Stainless steel welds, such as those done by TIG welding, require cleaning to remove the resulting surface discolouration and also to passivate the steel. This is often done using an electro-cleaning apparatus with the assistance of electrolyte cleaning fluids. A new cleaning fluid has been developed that has a generally neutral pH, instead of the highly acidic nature of previously used fluids, which avoids environmental and safety issues. The cleaning fluid composition preferably has potassium or sodium orthophosphate salts as the main active ingredient, or similar such salts, and has a pH of around 7. It may also include a sequestering or chelating agent such as a sodium and/or potassium salt of EDTA, and colouring and fragrance.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.