TB 1-1500-351-23-1
1.
Purpose.
The purpose of this TB is to alert the user community of the approved interim substitut es for methyl dthyl ketone
(MEK) in Army aviation maintenance.
2.
Background.
On 1 September 1998, the new Aerospace National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)
became effective. Army Aviation maintenance facilities may be required to comply with NESHAP. It is the
responsibility of your organizations to determine compliance requirements for the Aerospace NESHAP. The Army's
Major Commands have indicated that MEK is a major contributor to air pollution at the aviation maintenance
facilities. Aviation systems maintenance documentation requires the use of MEK in the repair and overhaul of
aviation weapon systems.
3.
Interim Alternatives to MEK.
AMCOM, Aviation Research, Development and Engineering Center (AVRDEC), Materials Engine ering, has
identified interim substitutes to MEK that can be used in maintenance procedures. The use of the approved interim
substitutes is not mandatory.
a. Desoclean 45.
Desoclean 45 is authorized as a replacement for MEK in aviation system maintena nce documents. Desoclean 45
has received approval for use as a drop in replacement for MEK in all AMCOM Aviation Technical Manuals (TMs)
and Depot Maintenance Work Requirements (DMWRs).
Contains Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs), vapor pressure of less than 45 mmHg at 70F
Courtaulds Aerospace
5430 San Fernando Road
P.O. Box 1800
Glendale, CA 91209
Sales Contact: 1-800-237-6649 (Application Support Center)
CAGE Code: 85570
Cleaning Compound, Solvent
Part Number: 02X413
NSN (newly assigned)
3